The effects of selective logging on low flows and water yield in a coastal stream in northern California

Elizabeth Keppeler

Treesearch

The effects of selective logging on low flows and water yield in a coastal stream in northern California

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Elizabeth Keppeler

Year:

1986

Type:

Miscellaneous Publication

Station:

Pacific Southwest Research Station

Source:

M.S. Thesis, Humboldt State University, Arcata, California. 137 p.

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Download (PDF 647 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/7792.pdf

Abstract

Abstract - Using a low flow season defined as a function of antecedent precipitation, streamflow data for a 21 year period was analyzed to determine the effects of selective tractor harvesting of second-growth Douglas-fir and redwood forest on the volume, timing, and duration of low flows and annual water yield. Significant increases in streamflow were detected for both the annual period and the low flow season. Maximum increases were realized the year following the completion. of logging. Greater relative increases were witnessed for the summer low flow period, however these increases were short-lived in comparison to the overall increase in annual water yield.

Keywords

PSW4351, Caspar Creek, selective logging, water yied, coastal stream, streamflow, watersheds

Citation

Keppeler, Elizabeth T. 1986. The effects of selective logging on low flows and water yield in a coastal stream in northern California. M.S. Thesis, Humboldt State University, Arcata, California. 137 p.