Many aquatic species have different levels of tolerance to stream quality.
Some have the ability to tolerate heavier loadings of metals and lower pH levels. If such species could be identified as indicator species and correlated to various levels of stream pollution or improvement, it would be helpful to OSM staff in determining the relative success of Clean Stream Initiative projects. In addition, it would be useful in determining the effects of mine drainage on receiving streams in general. OSM has a need for quick and dependable methods for its field staff to be make reliable assessments of levels of stream quality relative to AMD or its remediation. Discussions with OSM and meetings in both Columbia, MO and Alton, IL have taken place over the last three years.