Newfane Conservation Commission

No Newfane resident lives far from a brook, stream or river.  We all have an impact on and a responsibility for maintaining the health of our watershed.

Erosion is the largest single cause of water quality problems in rivers, the West River included.  Excess sediment enters our rivers and streams from collapsing streambanks, roads, logging and construction sites, croplands, and parkling lots.  It can bury and destroy fish spawning grounds, as well as habitat for the aquatic insects which are a primary food source for fish.

Suspended sediment and particles also absorb sunlight, which increases water temperature.  Prolonged temperatures above 68 degrees might feel nice for humans, but they can be harmful to a cold water fishery like the West River.  Cold water holds more oxygen, allowing for more aquatic life.

Trout, for example, become stressed at 70 degree temperatures, yet it is not uncommon, particularly in July, for the West River to reach  temperatures as high as this.

Residents can help, by maintaining the shrub and tree canopy along streams, brooks, and rivers.  Preserve native vegetation within 50 to 100 feet of rivers, streams and brooks.    Your streambank vegetation will provide a shade canopy that helps keep water temperatures within suitable ranges for aquatic life.  And it will aid in controlling erosion, preventing excess sediment from entering waterways.

If trees and shrubs have been removed from streambanks in the past, consider a program to restore your stream's buffer zones.  The fish will be thankful.

1.  Swimmers should use caution during and following heavy rains.  The rainstorms cause runoff, picking up manure, bacteria or pesticides from surrounding lands and flushing this runoff into the river system.  Thus, water quality may be unhealthy.  In addition, strong currents can arise even on small streams.

2.  Septic companies recommend pumping septic tanks at least every three years, more with heavy use.  A qualified engineer can confirm that your septic system is in good operating condition.

3.  When working the land, avoid piling or spreading fertilizers, pesticides or manure near rivers, streams or runoff areas.

4.  Maintain a healthy buffer of streambank vegetation to avoid erosion and keep water temperatures at optimal levels for aquatic life.