Dempsey, Chris, Biology Department, Gannon University, 109 University Squre, Erie, PA, 16501, dempsey007@gannon.edu; Schmitzerle, Dylan, , Biology Department, Gannon University, 109 University Square, Erie, PA, 16501, dempsey007@gannon.edu.
Due to human activity, many headwater streams in Pennsylvania have become incised, resulting in a myriad of issues including stream bank erosion and increased discharge during storm events. Small streams serve as a critical link between terrestrial and downstream ecosystems in transporting organic material. In the Allegheny National Forest, the primary cause of moderate vertical incision of streams can be traced back to timber harvesting practices of the late 1800’s to early 1900’s that removed trees from along and within stream corridors. To improve floodplain connectivity, we implemented large woody debris strategies by placing whole trees (with canopy and rootwad) and cut logs in the stream channel and its floodplain of Little Arnot Run. One of the project goals was to increase carbon storage within the watershed. We collected water samples from September 2019 through the present from 13 groundwater wells to monitor changes in DOC concentration and DOC quality. Here, we highlight pre and post restoration changes to dissolved organic carbon concentration and quality in the monitoring wells. Restoration work in the watershed occurred between August 2021 and May 2022.¶
restoration , carbon , groundwater , organic matter