Evaluation Of The Effects Of Channelization On Fish Populations In North Carolina's Coastal Plain Streams

This research study was designed to determine the degree of damage, if any, to fish populations resulting from channelization, and to determine the rate of recovery, if the damage was significant. This study points out the detrimental effects stream channelization has on fish populations and on the flora and bottom fauna of streams. The study also indicates that following channelization, and with no channel maintenance, nature can ultimately restore a coastal plain stream and its fish population to a stage reasonably near its natural condition, provided no further alterations of the stream bed, banks, forest canopy, or aquatic vegetation occur.