Trout habitat and stream restoration in Decorah

Abstract

This report focuses on the restoration of Old-Dry Run creek in Decorah for trout habitat. It is a component of the stormwater management capstone project for the city of Decorah. The aim of this component was to undertake a comprehensive study of the existing conditions of Old-Dry Run creek and consider the prospects of restoring the creek for trout habitat. With help and support of stakeholders and the City Manager of Decorah, a comprehensive document has been developed that shows the near-stream and in-stream conditions of the creek using RASCAL assessment and assessment of water quality data provided by Professor Jodi Lynn Enos-Berlage of Luther College. The restoration of Old-Dry Run creek as trout habitat will make the creek an amenity for the residents of Decorah because trout need clean cold water for survival.