Chapter 4 Habitats
4.5.18.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species Pollution. While water quality conditions are generally very good at present, past pollution events may have had a profound effect on the extant aquatic fauna in the Watauga River Basin. A tannery near Valle Crucis caused severe pollution in the early 20th century and may have led to the extirpation of many native species. Apparently, no extensive surveys for aquatic species were made prior to this period of degradation, and the extent of species loss is unknown. Erosion and Sedimentation. Presently, excessive erosion and sedimentation from nonpoint sources are the primary problems affecting species and habitats. Most development and agricultural activities are located in the valleys due to abundance of steep slopes within the watershed. Narrow riparian corridors or total lack of riparian vegetation along portions of the Watauga River and many tributaries has led to excessive stream bank erosion and loss of habitat due to sediment deposition and over-widening of channels. Impacts from row-crop agriculture and poorly managed livestock pasture (causing sedimentation from runoff and stream bank erosion) are also significant. Development. The area appears to be experiencing an acceleration of development, and threats to water and habitat quality are increasing. Development (primarily home construction) is rapidly increasing on steeper slopes. As related development increases (e.g., golf courses, commercial), stormwater runoff contributes more sedimentation and other nonpoint problems. Christmas tree farming is also increasing in the basin. Relatively large amounts of herbicides and pesticides are used in this form of silviculture, but the relative impacts of runoff from tree farms are unclear. Impacts from nonnative species (e.g., Margined Madtom) are also unclear but could negatively affect native fish communities. Impoundments. According to the National Aquatic Barrier Inventory & Prioritization Tool (SARP 2024) , there are 51 impoundments in the basin, most of which are small ponds used for recreation, agriculture, or water management. There are no major impoundments within the North Carolina portion of the basin. There are several small impoundments on tributaries, including Beech Mountain Reservoir on Buckeye Creek (drinking water reservoir), Price Lake on Boone Fork Creek (recreation), and Seven Devils Resort Lake on an unnamed tributary to the Watauga River (recreation). Impoundments can affect aquatic species by physically altering habitat, reducing flows and DO, and causing erosion. Modification of flow regimes by upstream impoundments affects various life history characteristics of downstream migratory fishes and other aquatic fauna by limiting dispersal and recolonization. Additionally, water withdrawals for irrigation reduce the amount of habitat available for aquatic species (NCDWQ 2009) .
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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