#Stormwater Solutions

[alok021]

Storm Drains System - leenus

Storm drain systems play a critical role in managing rainwater runoff and preventing flooding in urban areas. In recent years, advancements in technology have led to the development of innovative storm drain solutions that improve efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the latest technologies revolutionizing storm drain systems and their impact on rainwater management.

SMART DRAINAGE SYSTEMS:

Modern storm drain systems are increasingly integrating smart technologies to enhance performance and functionality. Smart drainage systems utilize sensors, data analytics, and real-time monitoring to detect water levels, predict storm events, and optimize drainage operations. These systems enable proactive management of rainwater, allowing authorities to respond promptly to changing conditions and mitigate flood risks.

PERMEABLE PAVEMENT:

One of the innovative approaches to stormwater management is the use of permeable pavement in urban landscapes. Permeable pavements allow rainwater to infiltrate through the surface, reducing runoff and replenishing groundwater resources. These pavements are designed to withstand heavy traffic loads while promoting sustainable drainage and minimizing the burden on conventional storm drain systems.

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE:

Green infrastructure practices such as green roofs, bioswales, and rain gardens are gaining popularity as effective stormwater management solutions. These nature-based approaches mimic natural hydrological processes, intercepting and absorbing rainwater before it enters storm drains. Green infrastructure not only reduces runoff but also enhances urban biodiversity, improves air quality, and beautifies the environment.

Read more: https://www.leenusindia.com/latest-innovations-in-storm-drain-systems-advancing-rainwater-management-with-leenus-india/

[vistalandcare]

Essential Guide to Silt Fence Installation and Siltation Control for Erosion Prevention

Silt fences are one of the most widely used tools in the construction and landscaping industries for controlling soil erosion and preventing sediment runoff into nearby water sources. Installing a silt fence correctly is essential for ensuring that these fences perform as designed, providing effective siltation control and protecting the environment.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of silt fence installation, explain the importance of siltation control, and offer best practices for maintaining these erosion barriers.

What is a Silt Fence?

A silt fence is a temporary barrier made from geotextile fabric that is used to filter out sediments from water runoff, particularly on construction sites or other land-disturbing activities. The fabric acts as a filtration system, allowing water to pass through while capturing silt and other debris. This helps prevent soil erosion, water pollution, and protects downstream water quality.

Silt fences are commonly used during:

Construction projects where soil is disturbed.

Landscaping and site grading projects.

Land reclamation projects and stormwater management.

The Importance of Siltation Control

Siltation control is a vital aspect of erosion management. When heavy rains or storms cause the soil to be washed away, the loose dirt (or silt) can flow into nearby streams, rivers, and other bodies of water, leading to a number of environmental problems:

Water Pollution: Silt and sediment can contaminate water sources, affecting aquatic life and the quality of drinking water.

Soil Erosion: Erosion can strip away valuable topsoil, making it difficult for vegetation to grow and reducing soil fertility.

Habitat Disruption: The accumulation of silt in waterways can block fish migration, smother habitats, and disrupt the local ecosystem.

By implementing proper siltation control measures like silt fences, you can reduce the risk of these negative environmental impacts.

How to Install a Silt Fence Correctly

Silt fence installation involves several key steps to ensure that the barrier is effective in trapping sediment and preventing erosion. Below is a step-by-step guide to proper silt fence installation.

1. Site Assessment and Planning

Before beginning installation, it's essential to conduct a site assessment. Identify the areas where water runoff is likely to occur and where silt may be washed away. Additionally, the location of the silt fence should be along a natural or planned flow path for water. It’s crucial that the silt fence does not block access to any drainage systems or cause unintended pooling of water.

2. Obtain Necessary Permits

In some regions, the installation of silt fences may require permits or approvals, particularly if the project impacts stormwater runoff or local waterways. Be sure to consult local regulations and obtain all required permits before proceeding.

3. Mark the Fence Location

Once you’ve identified where to install the silt fence, mark the location along the water flow path where the fence will be installed. The silt fence should be positioned so that it intercepts the flow of water, directing it through the fabric while trapping sediment.

4. Dig a Trench

A trench should be dug along the marked location to ensure that the silt fence fabric is buried securely into the ground. The trench should be at least 4 to 6 inches deep, ensuring that the bottom of the fabric is anchored to prevent water from flowing underneath.

5. Install the Fence Posts

Install vertical posts at regular intervals along the trench, generally about 6 to 10 feet apart. These posts will support the silt fence fabric and should be driven deep enough into the ground to provide stability. Wooden or steel posts are commonly used, and they should be durable enough to withstand the forces of water flow.

6. Attach the Fabric

The geotextile fabric should be rolled out along the length of the trench and attached to the posts. The fabric should be installed tightly, without sagging, to ensure that it can effectively trap silt. Secure the fabric to the posts using staples, ties, or fasteners designed for this purpose. Be sure to bury the bottom edge of the fabric in the trench to create a complete seal and prevent soil from washing underneath the fence.

7. Backfill and Compact the Trench

Once the fabric is in place, backfill the trench with the soil removed during the digging process. Compact the soil to secure the fabric and prevent water from flowing around the edges of the fence.

8. Inspect and Maintain the Fence

Silt fences must be regularly inspected to ensure they remain intact and effective. After heavy rainfall or storm events, check for any tears, damage, or areas where the fence may have been displaced. It is important to maintain the fence throughout the duration of the construction project or land disturbance.

Best Practices for Silt Fence Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial for the continued effectiveness of silt fences. Here are some best practices to ensure your silt fence continues to perform optimally:

Regular Inspections: Inspect the fence regularly, particularly after rainfall. Check for areas of wear or damage and ensure that the fabric is not clogged with sediment.

Sediment Removal: If the silt fence has collected too much sediment, it may become ineffective. Remove excess sediment before it builds up to more than half the height of the fence.

Repairs: If the fabric is torn or posts are leaning, repair the fence promptly. A damaged silt fence will not provide the necessary protection from erosion.

Proper Disposal: When a silt fence is no longer needed, remove it carefully and dispose of the fabric and any accumulated sediment in an environmentally responsible manner.

When to Use Silt Fences

Silt fences should be used in any situation where erosion control is needed, including:

Construction sites: When clearing land, grading, or excavating soil.

Agricultural projects: To prevent soil loss during planting or harvesting.

Road building projects: Where dirt is disturbed, and runoff could flow into nearby water sources.

Landscaping: To prevent erosion during heavy rains, especially in hilly or sloped areas.

Alternatives to Silt Fencing

While silt fences are highly effective, other erosion control methods can be used in conjunction with or as alternatives to silt fences, including:

Erosion control blankets: Made from biodegradable materials, these blankets help prevent erosion by protecting the soil surface while allowing vegetation to grow.

Sediment ponds: These are large ponds or basins designed to capture sediment and prevent it from flowing into nearby water sources.

Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch to the soil can help reduce the impact of water runoff and prevent erosion.

Conclusion

Silt fence installation is an essential practice for controlling erosion and preventing sedimentation in water bodies. Whether you're involved in construction, landscaping, or agricultural projects, implementing a well-designed siltation control system is key to protecting the environment and ensuring that your site remains compliant with local regulations.

By following proper installation and maintenance practices, you can ensure that your silt fence performs optimally, minimizing the risk of soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat disruption. In areas with high rainfall or disturbed soils, the installation of silt fences is a simple yet effective solution for maintaining a clean, sustainable landscape.

[expopeak]

The Water Expo 2024

The Premier Water Industry Event in the Americas

The Water Expo 2024 is the ultimate destination for professionals, innovators, and decision-makers in the water and wastewater industry. Connect with leading companies, discover groundbreaking technologies, and gain valuable insights to address the most pressing water challenges facing the Americas.

[stormwater22]

Your Premier Stormwater Filtration Solution Washington State

Stormwater Filtration Products, Stormwater Drainage Products, Stormwater Management Products, Stormwater Compliance, Catch Basin Filters, Storm Drain Filters, Stormwater Treatment. Maximize your stormwater treatment potential by installing in-ground gravity-flow Stormwater Filtration & Treatment Systems for compliance with your NPDES discharge requirements.

[civilcontractorbsearthworks]

What Are the Best Practices for Effective Stormwater Drainage Solutions in Mildura?

Effective stormwater drainage in Mildura is essential to managing water flow and preventing flooding and damage to properties. Here are some best practices to ensure efficient stormwater drainage Mildura and maintain a well-functioning system:

Implementing Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS):

Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are crucial for managing stormwater runoff efficiently. These systems mimic natural water processes to manage rainwater close to its source. Techniques such as permeable pavements, green roofs, and rain gardens can significantly enhance stormwater drainage Mildura by promoting infiltration and reducing surface runoff. At B & S Earthworks, we incorporate SuDS into our projects to provide effective and environmentally friendly drainage solutions.

Regular Maintenance and Inspection:

Regular maintenance and inspection of stormwater drainage systems are vital to ensure they function properly. Clogged drains, debris, and sediment build-up can hinder water flow, leading to potential flooding. Routine checks and cleaning can prevent these issues, maintaining the efficiency of stormwater drainage Mildura systems. B & S Earthworks offers comprehensive maintenance services to keep your drainage systems in optimal condition.

Utilising Advanced Drainage Technologies:

Incorporating advanced drainage technologies can enhance the performance of stormwater systems. Technologies like smart sensors and automated control systems help monitor water levels and manage drainage more effectively. Integrating these technologies into stormwater drainage Mildura projects can lead to more responsive and adaptable systems. B & S Earthworks leverages cutting-edge technologies to deliver innovative and reliable drainage solutions.

Integrating Green Infrastructure:

Green infrastructure plays a significant role in managing stormwater sustainably. Features such as swales, vegetated filter strips, and bio-retention areas help capture and treat stormwater runoff, improving water quality and reducing flood risks. These elements are particularly beneficial for stormwater drainage Mildura, as they enhance the natural landscape while effectively managing water flow. B & S Earthworks specialises in designing and implementing green infrastructure tailored to Mildura's unique conditions.

Coordinating with Sewer Drainage Systems:

Effective stormwater management often involves coordination with existing sewer drainage Mildura systems. Ensuring that stormwater systems do not overwhelm sewer infrastructure is critical to preventing backups and overflows. Proper planning and integration of stormwater and sewer systems can improve overall drainage efficiency. B & S Earthworks collaborates closely with local authorities to ensure seamless integration between stormwater and sewer drainage Mildura systems.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, adopting best practices such as sustainable drainage systems, regular maintenance, advanced technologies, green infrastructure, and coordination with sewer systems is essential for effective stormwater drainage Mildura.

B & S Earthworks excels in providing comprehensive drainage solutions that address these key areas. Contact us today to learn how we can enhance your stormwater drainage systems and meet your specific needs in Mildura.

[nengineerings]

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT DESIGN SOLUTION

Discover cutting-edge stormwater management design solutions at n Engineering. Our innovative approaches effectively mitigate flooding, enhance water quality, and promote sustainable urban development. Trust our expertise to provide comprehensive and environmentally friendly solutions tailored to your needs.

Visit us at nengineering.com for more information.

[pumpingstationsuk]

Discover high-quality commercial pumping stations compliant with BS EN standards. Benefit from free UK Mainland shipping, expert commissioning, and 24/7 support. With 50 years' experience, our GRP pumping stations cater to various diameters and site needs, ensuring efficient waste management for your projects.

[wavinasia]

Stormwater management solutions

You can build the best stormwater management solutions using the best-quality pipes and fittings from Wavin India. They have a wide range of pipes, like PVC, UPVC, HDPE, and PE pipes. They use the best material to manufacture pipes and fittings.

Wavin Asia Pacific

Harbourfront Centre,1 Maritime Square #12-19B 099253

[accenagroup]

Utah Stormwater Experts | AccenaGroup

We emphasize preventative maintenance as the first step in a maintenance plan. No matter the size or scale of your stormwater treatment system, AccenaGroup - Utah Stormwater Experts has the staff and experience to handle your project. For more information Visit our site today at https://accenagroup.com/

[stormwatermanagementsolutions]

Choosing The Best Stormwater Management Solutions

With climate change, increased instances of storms and heavy rainfall pose a major challenge for people. Accumulation of stormwater in places due to inadequate or breakdown of infrastructure can create a hazard for life and property. If channelled correctly, stormwater can be harvested and managed to prevent flooding and serve the needs for non-drinking purposes. This can be accomplished using stormwater management systems which can handle the high volumes of water. When choosing a stormwater management system, here is how to choose the right ones:

1. Determine the type you want: The choice of stormwater management systems must be made only after determining the purpose of installing one. There are different types which include rainwater collection systems, permeable pavements, retention ponds, as well as green roofs or gardens.

2. Consider the design of the building: Depending on whether the roof of the building is flat or sloped, or edged with a parapet, different types of stormwater management solutions will need to be installed. In sloped roofs, installation may be done without the need for overhead pipes as the stormwater may be accumulated through the action of gravity, while for flat roofs, siphonic drainage systems may be installed. The pipes for stormwater management must be chosen distinct from the drainage system to ensure optimal efficiency.

3. The use of the collected water: Where and how you intend to use the stormwater collected in the stormwater management system will also determine its choice. Basic systems only allow for the water to be collected and harvested into a large tank or reservoir using drain pipe and connector systems from where it may be used for gardening and landscaping. More advanced systems may also treat the water and make it fit for use in bathrooms and for cleaning purposes while further treatment may make the water fit for consumption as well.

4. Location of water tank: Whether the water tank or reservoir of the system will be placed overground, or underground will also be a factor in the choice of the stormwater management system. While it may be possible to install underground tanks in new constructions or buildings with basements, for other constructions overground tanks may be more suitable.

Choose the most suitable stormwater management solutions from Wavin, the leading global manufacturer of sustainable water supply and management technology and services

[cognitivejustice]

WHAT IS A RAIN GARDEN?

A rain garden is a shallow planted depression designed to hold water until it soaks into the soil. A key feature of eco-friendly landscape design, rain gardens—also known as bio-infiltration basins—are gaining credibility and converts as an important solution to stormwater runoff and pollution. Here we’ll show you how to make a rain garden fit handsomely into a landscape and still fulfill all of its environmental functions.

Refer to the list of links below to guide you through calculating garden depth, garden size, placement, and plant selection.

University of Nebraska NebGuide 1 – Rain Garden Design for Homeowners

University of Nebraska NebGuide 2 – Plant Selection for Rain Gardens in Nebraska

University of Nebraska NebGuide 3 – Installing Rain Gardens in Your Yard

Backyard Farmer Video – Rain Gardens and Rain Barrels

Minnesota’s Rain Garden Workbook for Homeowners

[alok021]

Simplifying Drainage Solutions Readymade Drainage Chambers

/ Uncategorized / By leenus

In the realm of urban infrastructure, efficient drainage systems play a pivotal role in maintaining the health and functionality of cities. One of the key components of these systems is drainage chambers. These chambers, when readymade, offer a convenient and effective solution to managing stormwater and wastewater. Let’s delve into the world of readymade drainage chambers, exploring their benefits, applications, and how they contribute to sustainable urban development

UNDERSTANDING READYMADE DRAINAGE CHAMBERS:

Readymade drainage chambers are prefabricated units designed to facilitate the efficient flow of water in drainage systems. These chambers are typically made from durable materials such as reinforced concrete or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ensuring longevity and resilience against environmental factors. They come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different project requirements, ranging from residential to commercial and industrial applications

BENEFITS OF READYMADE DRAINAGE CHAMBERS

Time and Cost Efficiency: Compared to traditional methods of constructing drainage chambers on-site, readymade chambers offer significant time and cost savings. With pre-manufactured units, installation becomes faster and requires less labor, reducing overall project expenses

Quality Assurance: Readymade chambers undergo rigorous quality control measures during manufacturing, ensuring consistent performance and durability. This quality assurance minimizes the risk of defects or structural issues, providing peace of mind to project developers and stakeholders

Versatility: Readymade drainage chambers are versatile in their applications, suitable for various drainage systems such as stormwater management, sewage networks, and utility conduits. Their adaptability makes them ideal for both new construction projects and infrastructure upgrades

Environmental Sustainability: Utilizing readymade drainage chambers promotes environmental sustainability by minimizing material waste and carbon emissions associated with on-site construction. Additionally, these chambers facilitate efficient water management, reducing the risk of flooding and pollution in urban areas

Longevity and Maintenance: With their robust construction and corrosion-resistant materials, readymade drainage chambers offer long-term reliability with minimal maintenance requirements. This longevity translates to cost savings over the lifespan of the infrastructure, making them a cost-effective investment for municipalities and developers

Read more:

[mariacallous]

Falling water levels in reservoirs that supply the Attica region, which includes the Greek capital, must be tackled as a matter of urgency due to a prolonged drought, the head of the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company, EYDAP told BIRN.

While conceding that there is no water shortage currently in Attica, as is the case in many Greek islands, EYDAP’s president Giorgos Stergiou, told BIRN: “We have had long enough to plan ways to deal with the prolonged drought in Attica, depending on the different scenarios.”

Greece’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy on August 27 announced that in collaboration with EYDAP, it has prepared a ‘road map’ to be implemented within four years to secure Attica’s water supply.

In the last two years, reserves in Attica have dropped from 1.158,million cubic metres in August 2022 to 703,339 million cubic metres today, an average loss of about 225 million cubic metres per year.

“Because the level in the reservoirs has dropped, as much as possible we have to ensure the rational and optimal treatment of water resources, to ensure the uninterrupted… supply of very high-quality drinking water for the Attica basin, for as long as is necessary or at least until climatic conditions change for the better,” Stergiou said.

The ministry said that it “will choose the best solutions that are realistic to implement”.

Solutions include the reduction of losses in the water supply networks, the partial diversion of water from rivers that end up in the artificial lake at Kremasta, new reservoirs, use of recycled water for irrigation and industry, the enrichment of underground aquifers with recycled water, better stormwater management, desalination and using green energy resources.

But all these solutions involve high initial investment costs or high operating costs, Stergiou warned.

“In any case, a long-term project has to be done, as the issue of climate change will not end tomorrow; the issue is how fast you have to do it and what costs you are willing to take,” he said.

In the meantime, EYDAP has implemented various measures to conserve water, either through the activation of boreholes or the reactivation of Yliki Lake, an important source of drinking water for Attica, Stergiou noted.

At the same time, the construction of a treatment centre of sediment in eastern Attica, where an agricultural network is being developed for the Mesogieon plain, is underway.

The revival of Hadrian’s aqueduct, which was built 2,000 years ago and is still operational, will also help to meet irrigation and gardening needs in eight municipalities of Attica. Chalandri municipality already uses it.

EYDAP is also implementing a large investment programme that will gradually replace aging pipelines to reduce leaks; it has already replaced mechanical meters with digital ones to offer a real-time consumption picture and timely notification of leaks to consumers.

“We are also running a public awareness campaign to reduce the consumption of potable water in cases such as when we shave or wash balconies or cars, etc. This is a quantity of water that… is wasted. Obviously, it will not solve the problem. However, it can affect consumption,” Stergiou said.

[rain-palmer]

Purple Sand Dollars: How Human Activity Affects Aquatic Life in the Puget Sound

In mid spring, and mid autumn the gravelly sand on Fudge Point is blanketed in dark purple sand dollars. It is mating season these times of year on Harstine Island for these invertebrates. I used to walk down the beach from Island Shore road during low tide to Fudge Point to play with the sand dollars when they were not covered in three feet of icy water. Deep royal purple disks littered the ground, layering over each other in the thousands. I loved to pick up the creatures and feel their tiny cilia tickle my skin as they moved around. As the week ended, the tide left behind the exoskeletons of the sand dollars, and my brothers and I would go out collecting them with our sand pails. Looking at the shells at the star on their backs, you would never have known sand dollars are purple. As the years go by, it seems as if there are less and less sand dollars scattered in the sand. In fact, “in the past 30 years there has been a large recession in the populations of the species which inhabit the Puget Sound. The decrease has been seen in the populations of: forage fish, salmonids, bottom fish, marine birds, harbor porpoise and orcas,” (Environmental Issues in Puget Sound). There are now more cars on the roads, leaving toxins in the ground that the water runoff then carries along with it into the sound. Construction along the 2,500 miles of shoreline is destroying natural habitats in several areas, and causing harm to the wildlife (Impact on Puget Sound). As the population of the area grows, so does the pollution rate, destruction of natural habitat, fishing rate, and introduction of foreign invasive species. All these issues contribute to the loss of natural wildlife in Puget Sound. However there is a possibility, through the cooperation of communities and hard-work of individuals and governments, the sound can be restored.

Pollution in the Puget Sound is an ever growing problem, and it is at least partially attributed to the growing population in the area. Gene Balk from the Seattle Times reports that,  “From July 1, 2014 to July 1, 2015, Seattle grew by 2.8 percent — the highest rate among the 50 most-populous U.S. cities. Seattle added nearly 18,000 residents in the one-year period, bringing its population to about 652,000,” (U.S. Census: Seattle now fourth for growth among 50 biggest U.S. cities).As more people drive to and from work each day more fuel emissions and litter are left in the roads, only to end up in the sound with the next rainfall. As a result of this several species of marine life are threatened with endangerment or extinction. Paved areas are an obvious issue here, due to the fact that the soil can not absorb water and filter toxins through the pavement (McIntyre). Research is being done at the Washington Stormwater Center on a popular solution known as green stormwater infrastructure. Giles Pettifor of the King County Stormwater Permit Team describes it as, “Building stormwater control structures that more closely mimic natural settings.”  Jennifer McIntyre, a researcher at Washington State University, leads a research team “that’s studying how polluted runoff impacts aquatic animals,” (Campbell). Mcintyre and her research team used green stormwater infrastructure to conduct experiments on Coho salmon. They had filtered water from the highway runoff in a makeshift rain garden, then filled several fish tanks half with the filtered water, and half with unfiltered highway runoff, and put 10 juvenile Coho salmon in the tanks. Katie Campbell from KCTS-9 in seattle reports that, “her [McIntyre] plan was to monitor the salmon for four days, but within 12 hours all the fish that were in the straight highway runoff were dead. And the fish in the filtered runoff? All still alive.” When runoff from rain events leaks into the sewage pipes and causes them to overflow, it is known as Combined Sewage Overflow (CSO). CSO brings many pollutants, harmful pathogens, and excess nutrients into the sound (Environmental Issues in Puget Sound). All of these are detrimental in their own way. Highway runoff and CSO damages marine habitat and makes the water turbid. In some places it is near to impossible for marine life to survive. In northeastern Puget Sound, Hood Canal is experiencing a low-oxygen condition known as hypoxia. This is largely due to the nutrient levels in the water. Excess nutrients contribute to hypoxia in an interesting way. Algae depends on these nutrients to survive and multiply. As they die they release nitrogen into the environment which depletes oxygen levels in the water. With more algae there is less oxygen, creating a much harsher environment for marine species to live in. Besides being detrimental to the physical health of marine animals, pollutants in the water can have other adverse effects. For example, heavy metal pollutants such as lead can cause reproductive harm, slowing down the reproduction of many marine species. King County is currently trying to pass legislation to limit the amount of CSO released into the sound. However, the growing population contributes to the problem and makes it a more tedious task to regulate pollution in the sound. CSO affects marine life indirectly as well by destroying their natural habitats and making them too hostile an environment to support life.

Population increase in the Puget Sound means more development of near-shore areas, which in turn means more destruction of natural habitats. According to the Capital Regional District (CRD), a Canadian government created organization overseeing legislation in the northern sound area, “Human-caused habitat loss...is altering ecosystems on a global scale, often causing destruction that is irreversible.” Richard Feely, of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory and the University of Washington, has found that, “as much as one third of the water on the West Coast is acidic enough to be ‘corrosive’,” and, “by 2050, 50 to 70 percent of the water will be corrosive” (Warshaw). Craig Welch and Steve Ringman, of the Seattle Times, found in their study of CO2 levels and their effects on ocean life that, “Acidification rates expected to occur later this century are already being surpassed.” Besides chemical changes to the environment, physical changes are causing what is known as habitat fragmentation. As the CRD describes it, “Habitat fragmentation occurs when previously connected habitat is split up by human developments such as urban areas, agricultural fields, logging, and roads. This leaves smaller, isolated areas to be available for wildlife - in effect, habitat ‘islands.’ These islands have much more edge area exposed to stressors such as human disturbance, invasive species, and pollution. Fragmentation interrupts the movements, foraging, and hunting behaviors of many animals.” Habitat fragmentation has many man-made causes, including dredging, which destroys habitats at the seafloor. A study was done in 2008 by a group of scholars and scientists from universities and science centers located on each of the US coasts, on the loss of habitat and its potential effect on salmonids in the Puget Sound. Michelle M. McClure et al defined the issue as:

Historically, anadromous salmonids utilized freshwater habitats in the western United States (excluding Alaska) from the coast inland to Montana and Nevada totaling nearly 633,000 km². Large-scale blockages in this region have left only about 56% of that area (~355,000 km²) accessible. Dams constructed for irrigation  and hydroelectric power generation are one of the largest culprits in blocking access for these fishes, but culverts and river engineering have also reduced the amount of habitat that anadromous fishes can use. (3)

Their hypothesis was that, “the loss of habitat can potentially affect the evolutionary trajectories of affected species in significant ways,” (2). The theorized effects included altered selective regime which would reduce the variety of traits displayed by the salmonids. The team identified areas with various traits such as, “presence of anadromous salmonids,” “areas that are anthropogenically blocked and currently inaccessible,” and “potential anthropogenic stresses to streams to identify habitats likely affected by changes…” (10) in the environment. They found “significant differences between accessible and inaccessible areas in every metric” (5). For every variable of human impact that they measured, isolated or blocked areas had lower values than accessible areas, “meaning that previously used, but now inaccessible habitats are less affected by human activities and associated changes in flow, temperature, and other characteristics.” Habitat fragmentation has a huge affect on the salmonids, and various other species, of the Puget Sound. “The disruption of connections among local populations,” (10) leads to reduced levels of genetic variation, which leads to a more vulnerable species. The researchers wrote, “Loss of habitat and its attendant consequences have been implicated as the largest threat to endangered species in the United States, and the loss of habitat is seen as the major cause of extinctions,” (1) which seems to remain true through 2016.

Salmon are not facing hardships solely because of habitat fragmentation and destruction. They have been a popular species for hunting for as long as humans and salmon have coexisted, and it is likely that eventually they will be hunted into extinction just like the dodo bird or the great auk. Although many species of salmon are not endangered, their existence is of great importance to many because they are the main food source for Southern Resident orca whales, which were labeled endangered as of 2005, being a subspecies of orca unique to the area. Groundfish in the Puget Sound are often overfished and are threatened with endangerment as well. An article by the Sierra Club, which “supports the effort to establish Marine Reserves in the coastal waters of Washington State,” notes that, “Washington now leads the continental united states in having the most endangered species and the most depressed fisheries in North America.” Boris Worm, a fisheries biologist at Dalhousie University in Canada, commented, “The loss of [oceanic] biodiversity continues at a pace that’s not slowing down. On average, the conditions of the oceans continues to get worse,” in an interview with Mother Jones Magazine. Despite the grim outlook of the scientific community, the Sierra Club article describes how building Marine Reserves (MRs) and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) can help repopulate dwindling species. “A network of Marine Reserves...recreates near pristine complete ecosystems and gives fisheries management professionals a benchmark to gauge whether management protocols are working,” eventually the goal is to produce 4-7 times more fish than there are currently (Marine Reserves in Puget Sound and Washington). The state of Washington is becoming one of the first to take “genuine” steps towards protecting “areas of critical habitat” with the Washington Department of Fisheries and Wildlife’s (WDFW) Puget Sound Rockfish Conservation Plan. This plan will use MRs and MPAs to begin to regrow the populations of rockfish in the Puget Sound. Utilizing these systems on a bigger scale could be a possible solution to protecting the species of northwestern Washington and other parts of the world. 

Although not completely caused by humans, invasive species are another leading cause of animal endangerment in Puget Sound. These invaders, sometimes called nuisance species, are introduced to the environment in one way or another, and change the competition of the entire ecosystem (Environmental Issues in Puget Sound). There are many ways foreign species make their way into the sound. They can spread to many places through the importation of seafood, attaching themselves to the hulls of ships, natural dispersal, etc. The most destructive species currently are marine grass that traveled all the way from Japan after the many tsunamis that took place. Although large brown alga may be the homes of many Pacific herring eggs, it out competes the native kelp, and causes the water to be more murky and turbid; an uncomfortable environment for many native species (Invasive Species in King County). Animals like oyster drills, zebra mussels, and tunicates are a few examples of species that attach themselves to the hulls of ships and travel thousands of miles until they reach the Puget Sound area. The WDFW is currently trying to solve the issue of invasive species with their Nuisance Species Management Plan. Allen Pleus of WDFW reports that, “Preventing the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species in Washington is challenging and unpredictable. Discovery and continued findings of potentially invasive species on Japanese tsunami marine debris is a good example of a new threat to the state’s coastal waters” (Aquatic Invasive Species). The Nuisance Species Management Plan involves the state’s Patrol Commercial Vehicle Inspectors searching incoming vessels for animals that may have attached themselves to the underside of ships, and then promptly removing any they find before they have the chance to spread. In Olympia, the city has worked with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implicate an interesting plan to deal with their arched slipper limpet snail problem. The city is taking the shells of these pests and packing them into the sidewalk to slow down runoff and the flow of of stormwater into the sound. The program manager at Olympia’s Department of Public Works, Emmett Dobey, has said that, “The process also seemed to reduce the amount of pollutants that typically come along for the ride,” which implies that these shells could be part of a bigger plan to restore the natural beauty and biodiversity of the sound (Environmental Issues in Puget Sound). 

Now that I am an adult, I look across the water of the Puget Sound and can’t help but feel a little sad. I am sad for all the marine life that will inevitably be wiped out as time goes on. Some critics such as Stewart Brand, author of Whole Earth Discipline, believe that, “Viewing every conversation issue through the lens of extinction threat is simplistic and usually irrelevant,” because extinction is something that happens naturally, and there are more important issues plaguing our planet currently (Rethinking Extinction). Others like Elizabeth Kolbert, author of The Sixth Extinction, believe that extinction is an important issue that we should do something about. It is clear that humans have a big impact on the health and biodiversity of Puget Sound through pollution, destruction of natural habitat, overfishing, and introduction of invasive species among other things. Hopefully through the work of WDFW and the local communities the sound can be restored and the marine life can thrive the way it once did long ago. 

Written for Portland Community College, May 2016

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Works Cited

Brand, Stewart. "Rethinking extinction."�� Aeon Essays (2015): n.p. Web. 25 May 2016.

"Invasive Species in King County." King County. N. p., n.d. Web. 31 May 2016.

"Environmental Issues in Puget Sound."  Wikipedia. N.p., 2016. Web. 25 May 2016.

Beechie, Timothy J. "Evolutionary Consequences of Habitat Loss for Pacific Anadromous Salmonids."  Blackwell Publishing Ltd. (2008): 19. Web. 31 May 2016.

Smith, Joel P. "Water Out of Fish: Are We Overfishing Our Oceans?"  Sound Consumer. PCC Natural Markets, July 2012. Web. 25 May 2016.

Vaidyanathan, Gayathri. "Puget Sound Orcas To Remain on Endangered List." Discovery. 17 Aug. 2013. Web. 25 May 2016.

"Marine Reserves." Sound Science. n.d. Web. 25 May 2016.

"Habitat Loss and Degradation." CRD, n.d. Web. 31 May 2016.

"Marine Reserves in Puget Sound and Washington." Sierra Club, n.d. Web. 31 May 2016.

"Scientists Search for Solution to 'Toxic Cocktail' in Washington's Puget Sound." . PBS Newshour, 14 Mar. 2013. Web. 25 May 2016.

Pleus, Allen. "Aquatic Invasive Species." Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, n.d. Web. 31 May 2016.

Warshaw, Amelia. "Ocean Acidification: Just One of the Challenges Facing Marine Ecosystems." Pulitzer Center, 4 Aug. 2014. Web. 31 May 2016.

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