Orzetti, L.L., Jones, R.C., Murphy, R.F. 2010. Stream condition in Piedmont streams with restored riparian buffers in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Journal of the American Water Resources Assocation. American Water Resources Association, Middleburg, VA. Volume 46, Number 3. Pages 473-485.

Assessment, biological, chemistry, habitat, restoration, riparian buffers, stream

This study tested the efficacy of restored forest riparian buffers along streams in the Chesapeake Bay watershed by examining habitat, selected water quality variables, and benthic macroinvertebrate community metrics in 30 streams with buffers ranging from zero to greater than 50 years of age. Water quality, habitat and biological metrics were used to evaluate conditions. Results showed that habitat, water quality, and benthic macroinvertebrate metrics generally improved with age of restored buffer.