Most trout need swift cool water to survive because of the high levels of dissolved oxygen. Other species need very different conditions to ensure their survival. The relative abundance of these species are used as indicators of stream health. Water quality has become a growing concern in the United States and around the world. These will be affected by point and non-point sources .
Alkalinity is a test of the pH of water.
Carbonates and hydroxides normally impart alkalinity to water. Alkalinity of mountain streams can be important for a number of reasons including wildlife s tolerance for changes in pH and the waters ability to transport heavy metals. These include metals such as lead, silver and cadmium. The presence of these metals will stress aquatic life and, at high concentrations, are lethal. Dissolved oxygen determines how much oxygen is available to fish and other aquatic creatures through the water.