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~~ at We then proceed to Level changes can be explained. We determing CR, i.e.: II to determine if CR explore the relationships CR f(biomass of invetebrates, microbes, organics) If we determine the standing crops of invertebrates and microbes to be normal, the relationship has not explained the change. Therefore, other factors which could be causing the change must be considered. We enter Level III where other hypotheses are formulated to explain the change. We may hypothesize that invertebrate or microbe respiration has increased, thus, respiration must be directly measured by utilizing respirometers developed for the project. If microbial respiration is normal but invertebrate respiration is above normal, the deviation in invertebrate respiration must be determined. Perhaps leached metals or organics caused sublethal stress. We then analyze properly preserved samples of stream invertebrates for these compounds. Concurrently, process waste stream records are inspected for abnormal levels of the suspected agent. If levels are above the baseline, then leachate is implicated and the pathway and appropriate mitigation must be determined. In summary, community level parameters and ecosystem-based relationships with sublevels can be used to narrow the path of investigations of an abnormal data point. This can then lead to a logical management decision and action. It should be noted that many of the activities presented as level I, II, and III could be occurring concurrently to reduce reaction time. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MANAGEMENT/MONITORING PROGRAM Data gathered in the baseline and monitoring programs for Tracts Ua and Ub will be incorporated into an ecosystem model which will be continually refined as more data are accumulated. Emphasis is being placed on the preproduction period to complete the majority of ecosystem relationships for the model and refine techniques to be used in the long-term program. 285