PPT Slide

Urbanization causes the temperature of streams to rise, both during low flow and storm events.

Copyright 2000, Center for Watershed Protection

Previous slide

Next slide

Back to first slide

View graphic version

Stream temperature is a very important habitat parameter for salmon, trout, sculpins and other fish and insects, and temperature variability can dictate the growth of aquatic insects and timing of migration and molts. Impervious cover increases air and soil water temperatures and can create an increase of 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit in urban streams.