The impact of highway construction on a fresh water stream - a demonstration project

Abstract

Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) commenced a demonstration study in 1976 to determine the impact of highway construction on a fresh water stream. A creek near a highway construction site along US-69 at Limestone Gap in northern Atoka County was selected. The testing sites along the streams in the area of construction were monitored for physical and chemical changes. The sites were monitored by ODOT Research Division for a period of 11 years. A cost analysis was made to show approximate cost of conducting typical studies per year. It was concluded that the construction activities used have no recognizable impact on fresh water streams, like Limestone Creek. It is recommended that highway construction contractors follow some guidelines to minimize erosion from construction sites. It is also recommended that similar studies be conducted in future construction areas where there is a potential for highway construction to impact on aquatic life or fresh water quality.