Habitat Quality Evaluation For Use Attainability Analysis of High Island Creek Near Arlington Minnesota

The habitat quality of High Island Creek was examined to determined if its use classification of 2B is appropriate. Physical, chemical, and biological information was collected and analyzed for High Island Creek's two district reaches. The physical measurements indicated that there is poor to fair habitat quality in upstream reach. Habitat quality improves greatly as one progresses into the downstream reach. Chemical data suggests high levels of pollution from the Arlington waste water treatment plant and other sources within the watershed. Fisheries data indicated that a dam located at RM 6.8 divides the stream into two communities. Above the dam the species are limited to rough and forage fish. Below the dam, game fish were collected. It was determined that High Island Creek should maintain its 2B classification.