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, ODD OM Perspective Restore and maintain the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the nation's water. [Goal of the Clean Water Acts 1948-19873 The goal of the Clean Water Act (CWA) includes biological integrity. This integrity is a summation of the interactions among diversity, Productivity, and ecosystem stability. Stream Health determinations are based on a stream's existing biological condition, measured against its own long-term natural condition. This approach is suggested by CWA's basic legislative framework: "The Committee wants to know what waters are in their natural state and where they are located. The Committee wants to know what waters are of the quality which will assure protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife. ... The Committee wants information on those waters which fail to meet high quality requirements, where they are located, and the reason for the failure." [3722 USCC&AN 19723. This quote defines the purpose for establishing clear definitions for Stream Health. It is also the basis for Forest Service contributions to State biennial water quality reports (Sections 305b and 319). These reports include problem analyses of ,current trends, quantification of waterbody health, a risk assessment for particular watersheds and activities, a summary of watershed damage control programs, and a summary of water quality improvement actions. - Additionally, the fundamental elements of Stream Health have been included in the law itself. The following list provides the ,scope and foundation for watershed and water resource monitoring and assessment. (From the U,S.Code): * Key species, natural temperature and flow patterns... [33 USC 13143 * Concentration and dispersal of pollutants (wI by-products) through biological, physical, and chemical processes and any related changes in the diversity, productivity, or stability... [33 USC 13143 * Factors related to rates of eutrophication; organic material accumulation; and inorganic sediment accumulation... [33 USC 13143 * Dissolved oxygen conditions needed by location, species, and activity (hiding cover, propagation, food supply, reproduction)... [33 USC 13113 * Effects of road construction, use, and maintenance on the biological character or flow, reach, and circulation.._ [33 USC 13443 * Factors needed for restoration of the natural chemical, physical, and biological integrity... [33 USC 13143 * Effects on hydrologic cycle and storm runoff... [33 USC 13143 * Accurate assessment and comparison of existing condition to the water quality objectives to be met... [33 USC 13143 ============================================================================== Text Page 2