National Hydrography Dataset NHDFlowline layer with a spatial representation of designated water uses defined in Title 25 Environmental Protection, Department of Environmental Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality Standards. The Pennsylvania Code just cited provides a list of all streams or watersheds (basins) in the state along with their associated designated water uses. This GIS layer displays these uses spatially on an interactive stream map. Public users can drill down to locations on the map to view and map the designated uses of the water bodies of interest. The layer can also be used in conjunction with other spatially referenced data for spatial analyses.

This data is hosted at, and may be downloaded or accessed from PASDA, the Pennsylvania Spatial Data Access Geospatial Data Clearinghouse http://www.pasda.psu.edu/uci/DataSummary.aspx?dataset=1098

National Hydrography Dataset NHDFlowline layer with spatial representation of existing water uses defined in Title 25 Environmental Protection, Department of Environmental Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality Standards. The Pennsylvania Code just cited provides a definition for distinguishing between designated and existing use classification. This GIS layer displays these uses spatially on an interactive stream map. Public users can drill down to locations on the map to view and map the existing uses of the water bodies of interest. The layer can also be used in conjunction with other spatially referenced data for spatial analyses.

Field evaluations of existing habitat suitability index (HSI) models for spawning adults, eggs, and larvae of American shad (Alosa sapidissima) were conducted in 1990-1992; initial models for juveniles in nursery habitats were developed. Fish abundance in various habitats of the upper Delaware River was quantified by (1) observation of adult spawning activity, (2) collection of eggs and larvae with metered plankton and drift nets, and (3) enumeration of juveniles by underwater observation and seining techniques. Regression analysis, principal component analysis, and range analysis were used to relate abundance to an array of physical habitat variables potentially influencing fish distributions.

No HSI model was previously developed for juvenile American shad in riverine habitats. Four physical habitat variables were correlated with juvenile abundance: water temperature, dissolved oxygen (covariates), river depth, and turbidity. Regression analysis, principal component analysis, and range analysis were used to relate abundance to an array of physical habitat variables potentially influencing fish distributions.

The Research and Development Laboratory-Wellsboro (RDL-W) is located on 55 acres near Wellsboro, Pennsylvania (Tioga County). Laboratory facilities include 3 modern buildings, 8x200-foot concrete raceways, 3 production wells, and support equipment.

Core Capabilities

The RDL-W conducts research for restoration of depleted fisheries and other aquatic biological resources. A diversified research program in ecology, conservation technology, genetics, and physiology emphases the integration of laboratory and field studies to develop scientifically sound approaches to the management of aquatic ecosystems. Research is directed primarily towards development of information and technology to increase understanding of aquatic ecosystems in the northeastern United States and to assist client agencies to better manage these ecosystems and their biota. Technical assistance is provided to clients throughout the nation.