Evaluation of R-EMAP Techniques for the Measurement of Ecological Integrity of Streams in Washington State's Coast Range Ecoregion

We used methods from EPA's Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP) to assess the regional status of streams within the Coast Range ecoregion of Washington State. Study objectives were: to determine the ecological condition of wadable, 1st-order through 3rd-order streams; to provide information for the development of water quality biological criteria; and to determine the applicability of EMAP-derived methods in Washington. Stream condition was assessed using EMAP indicators for habitat (chemical and physical) and biology (invertebrate and vertebrate assemblages). EMAP's probability survey was used to select 75 1st through 3rd-order stream sites from the USGS 1:100,000 series hydrographic layer. Of these, 45 sites were sampled. Multivariate techniques were used to identify community types and related physical and chemical habitat. Overall, about 25% of the sites were rated least-impacted. Most impacts were associated with non-point source pollution, mainly forestry practices. The R-EMAP method was a successful tool for assessment of regional status and ecological integrity; however, in order to use it for biological criteria development in Washington State, the method would require some modification to complement the current state protocols.