| OCR Text |
Show is a fine misture of clay and silto The macro- fauna of this soil type is dominated by oligochaetes ( a relative of the common earthworm) and chironomid larvae ( the larval stage of midge flies). The results of the preliminary data for this bottom type indicate that both sides of the dike would support similar populations of indicator organisms and hence neither is unique in this regard. This study'" has also revealed the existence of a unique section of bottom substrate, very different in composition than the silty areae This substrate consists of rocky material and is located along the east side of Goshen Bay for about five miles beginning at the northern point of West Mountain. The area extends about 200 to 400 yards out into the lake. The invertebrate biota of this substrate is much more diverse than that found in the silty area and consists of chironomid larvae, amphipods ( freshwater shrimp), snails, leeches, caddis fly larvae, and the freshwater sponge. The conclusion reached is that the east shore of Goshen Bay is biologically a very unique area and is the only area of this type in Utah Lake. In fact, it may be the only area of this nature in the intermountain region. The value of indicator studies is well known and the Bonneville Unit warrants additional studies of this type. Without the Unit If the proposed Bonneville Unit plan is not developed it is reasonable to assume that ecological changes, some of which would have adverse impacts, would continue to occur„ Because an exact plan of future development for this area, without the Unit, is not available potential changes can only be generally discussed. Those organisms, unable to rapidly adapt to changes in the quality and quantity of their habitat, would decline in abundance. Of particular concern would be those birds and animals whose existence is already considered to be threatened. Game species such as deer and waterfowl would assume increased value as hunting pressure increased and productive capacity either remained static or decreased with losses of habitat. Those species such as pheasants, that require unique wintering areas would have problems as habitat was altered or lostc Populations of moose and elk should continue to expand and finally adjust to carrying capacity of the land. Waterfowl management would require considerable effort to insure preservation of marshes. Non- game species would continue to rise in popularity and importance. An increasing emphasis upon ecological education would require preservation of representative habitats of all wildlife species. These areas would have to be made readily accessible to naturalists. 146 |
