Stream Flow Comparisons Between Deckers and Aaron Creek

Anthony Marmorella* and Chris Russoniello

Department of Geology & Geography, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505

Presentation Category: Oral-Science & Technology (Oral Presentation #30)

Student’s Major: Environmental, Soil and Water Science

This research project will compare stream flow and discharge data between sites on upper Deckers Creek and Aaron Creek. Both streams feed into the Monongahela River. The question posed is how the discharge response differs between the two separate streams. These streams have been plagued by water quality issues in recent years—especially Acid Mine Drainage issues in Deckers Creek . Understanding the hydrology and flow response of these streams is important for categorizing the streams and potentially solving some of these issues. There are gages at both streams but little attempt to compare the two streams under different flow conditions. I will gage the two streams under a variety of flow conditions and compare to water level data at each site to construct a stage-discharge curve. The flow responses in the two streams will be analyzed and compared to understand hydrology differences between Deckers and Aaron Creek. I expect a more rapid recession curve along Aaron Creek because of the smaller size, but more variability in Deckers Creek because the larger watershed is likely to capture more precipitation events. Results will help to answer the initial research question and could lead to future questions to test.

Funding:

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: capstone course within my department,