![]() Consequently, streams are subjected to decreased flow. With more water moving across the land surface and less water making its way into the ground, there is little water being stored in the soils. These structures provide shelter and food for animals living in the stream. This same increased flow drastically changes the structure of the stream bottom by washing out rocks, logs, and vegetation. Stream banks may become unstable and fail, resulting in sloughing of adjoining property (such as backyards and roadways). Large quantities of water flowing quickly through stream channels can cause the banks of the stream to erode, adding sediment to the stream and causing habitat loss. Once the microscopic animals are destroyed, fish no longer have food to survive and prosper. The larger animals, such as fish, eat the microscopic animals. In addition to the negative effects on larger animals and plants, it can also destroy microscopic animals in the streams. Scouring can undercut root systems and destroy aquatic vegetation and aquatic animals. Particles transported by the rapidly moving water can act as a sandblaster. ![]() This rapid increase flushes fish, insects and other creatures away before they have time to retreat to safe areas. Once it reaches the streams and rivers, it causes the water to rise very rapidly and increases the size of the peak flow. This runoff rapidly moves to the streams and rivers, picking up sediment and pollutants as it travels. When rain hits paved, concreted or other impervious surfaces (rooftops, metal, etc.), the water does not get a chance to filter through the soil. ![]() Stream flow slowly increases to a peak flow, and later slowly decreases to a stable flow maintained by water stored in soils. The water that is not absorbed or stored, gradually enters streams and creeks. Much of this water is absorbed by plant roots and is stored in soils. ![]() When rain hits grassy, forested, or other unpaved surfaces, the water soaks into the ground. Water Quantity: too little or too much water. ![]()
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