PUB00093 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

processes, however. \Vith decreased surface water supply we draw more from wells, which draws down aquifers. Shallow wells and springs suddenly <;an go dry. Increased water demand can result in the drilling of more and deeper wells. We can also inadvertently recharge aquifers with contaminated water from overirrigation during drought periods. Wetlands and Riparian Areas As it does on all other water bodies, weather has a large impact on wetlands and riparian areas. \Vctlands and riparian area functions include flood storage and conveyance, erosion reduction, sediment control. groundwater recharge/discharge, pollution control, wildlife habitats. and recreation. Many endangered species of animals rely on wetlands for their habitats. Maintenance of these areas is more difficult during periods of drought, but is critical for overall watershed health. Drouoht Manaaement and the Role of Watershed GroUDs Watershed groups are uniquely positioned to increase public SUpp0l1 and participation in drought planning and management through public education and outreach. These groups also provide vital project coordination between local landowners, citizen groups, and government agencies to develop successful collaborative solutions to water resource issues. They are able to mobilize volunteer support for projects that conserve, protect, and restore our precious water resources. The following paragraphs discuss some specific ways watershed groups can become active participants in drought managemcnt. Monitoring and Assessment The variability of precipitation over the landscape and over time requires conjunctive management of ground and surface water supplies to ensure good quality water is available for both consumptive uses and instream flow rights. \Vatershed groups can help tremendously with drought management by monitoring streamflow, water quality, and other drought indicators (climate and weather conditions. soil moisture, \vater table, watershed runofl). The govemment simply does not havc the resources to monitor drought indicators in all watersheds, but this infonnation is necessary for effective drought management. Restoration of Wetland and Riparian Areas \Vatershed groups can playa critical role in the restoration of wetland and riparian areas that serve an important role in maintaining water quality. \Vetlands are an important slnk for many types of pollutants that can affect water quality. such as sediments, nutrients. and organic compounds Developing Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) Understanding streamflow IS critically important in determining TMDLs because loads are set based On minimum flows. Monitoring the variation in streamtlow before, during, and following a drought is necessary to understanding the overall health of the watershed and the impacts of point source pollution during a sustained period of low flow. Reduction of Nonpoint Source Pollution During drought. plant cover that serves as a natural barrier to prevent impurities from entering surface \vater is sparse. \Vhen there is a heavy rain, sudden runoff in these areas results in increased transport of sediment, organic matter, ash from wildfires, soluble nutrients and metals. and microorganisms into surface water bodies. Lack of rain allows accumulation of materials on road and land surfaces which arc also washed into streams when there is significant rain. Management of nonpoint sources of pollution becomes even more important ouring periods of drought because there is less tlo\v available to dilute these impacts. Watershed groups can playa significant role by becoming involved in all activities that reduce nonpoint sources of pollution. such as abandoned mine cleanup and involvement in implementing agricultural best management practices that protect surface cover and watershed conditions and ensure water use efficiency.