Lac qui Parle Project: A Preliminary Report on Environmental Impacts, Agency Policy, Investigations and Management Recommendations Regarding Annual Snag Removal From the Upper Minnesota River

The removal of snags and vegetation from river channels is a common practice. It is believed that through this practice water will move faster through the system, thus reducing the threat of flooding and damage. However, the data presented in this study demonstrate that the benefits of snag removal are weak in comparison to the effects it has on biological conditions and the sediment load of the stream. The author suggests that best management practices are alternatives. These best management practices have little negative effect on the ecosystem, yet they may be more effective in flood control and damage reduction.