OCR Text |
Show e. Search for an improved method of assessing the intangible values of scenic and historic features such as are found in the Potomac Gorge. (5) Any plans for the development of storage and utilization of the water should be predicated on the maximum feasible preservation of the natural features of the Potomac Gorge, and protection of the scenic, historic, and recreational values com- patible with the best combination of beneficial uses. (6) The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal should be rehabilitated for pleasure craft as far as Harpers Ferry, W. Va., or Cumberland, Md. C. The Character and Rate of Development 1. Basic Data Deficiencies The Problem Major deficiencies in the basic data and analyses required for planning comprehensive water re- sources development. The Situation Knowledge of the Potomac River, its behavior, and relation to the land began early in American colonial history. Washington's diaries contain many entries relative to the river, its flow, and fish- eries, and observations on the basin, its forests, soils, and topography. The river has been studied from the Chesapeake Bay to the divides which separate it from the Ohio. From colonial times, it has been used as a source of food, power, domestic, and in- dustrial water supply, as a highway, a medium of recreation, an open sewer, and a defense barrier. The basin early supported an extensive agriculture, a widespread timber industry, localized mining, and limited industries. These varied uses of water and land over s.n extensive period led men to become acquainted with the river and its regimen, and with the characteristics of its drainage. Many facts con- cerning them have been recorded. Consequently, today mucli information about the basin is gen- erally available. Hydrologically, the basin is reasonably well known. Abundant precipitation data are available for the middle section of the basin, an adequate amount for* the lower portion, but only part of what is desirable in the rugged headwater areas. Simi- larly, there are 86 stream flow gaging stations in the basin, 5 with a length of life over 40 years, and 608 20 extending over 20 years. Although many of the records have been made public, few detailed analyses have been made generally available. Ground water data are generally inadequate throughout the basin. The Potomac River under natural conditions had a high water quality. As settlement has progressed, this quality has degenerated with the pouring of industrial and domestic wastes into the stream, par- ticularly acids from the coal mines of the upper basin. Under the auspices of the Interstate Com- mission on the Potomac River Basin, a sanitary qual- ity survey of the river has been made. States, communities, and industries are now cooperating in maintaining a series of sanitary water quality sta- tions. This network of stations, while adequate for planning general pollution abatement in the river, should be augmented by additional stations on the main stream and some of its tributaries. The Potomac Basin is an area rich in early his- tory and the many national shrines in and close to the basin attract a myriad of visitors annually. Consequently preservation of the river in its present state has been sought by many organizations throughout the country. However, except in the lower tidal reach, residents of the area are short of adequate local recreation, especially that associated with water. In consequence, many seeking boat- ing, swimming, and allied sports, must patronize the lower river, Chesapeake Bay, and even the At- lantic. Information is not available as to the kind or quality of recreation desired, especially by urban residents, or where and what opportunities are required. A survey should give special attention to the problems of metropolitan Washington, where pressure of population makes the problem particularly acute. Many misconceptions as to the possible develop- ment of the river stem from the lack of data con- cerning its fish and wildlife resources. Although there have been many general studies, few have been directed specifically to meeting such biological questions as the effect of development on such migratory fish as the shad and herring, or on wildlife habitats. A greatly expanded program of data col- lection and of research, undertaken at an early date, is essential. Similarly, an expanded program of study is needed to provide essential data as to the effects of soil and waste pollution of all kinds on water temperatures, aquatic fauna and flora, and the fish population generally. No data are available on the biological effects of the acid conditions originating |