CHAPTER 1I: APPROACH AND METHODS 55
M. Incompatible Water Quality
Includes various forms of point and non-point source pollution, such as herbicides, pesticides,
sediments, nutrient loading and thermal modifications that directly impact water quality. Sources are
quite varied and include wastewater discharges, excessive soil disturbance near streams, increased
permeable surface area resulting from development and loss of vegetation in riparian buffers.
N. Industrial Development
Includes development of structures and infrastructure (buildings and utilities) for commercial or
industrial purposes, usually in an urban setting. Impacts include direct habitat destruction,
fragmentation, altered thermal regimes and indirect pollution sources that alter water or air quality.
O. Invasive Species
Includes exotic species as well as native species that have become invasive due to past habitat alterations
(e.g. hardwood encroachment of longleaf pine habitats following fire suppression). Can also refer to
spread of native plant or animal species due to certain types of development, management or
construction practices. Impacts include competition, hybridization and predation as well as long-term
alteration of ecological systems and processes.
P. Livestock Feedlots/Operations
Includes all effects from the commercial raising of cattle, hogs, sheep, etc. Of primary concern are
water quality issues resulting from runoff.
Q. Operation of Dams/Impoundments
Includes effects from the actual construction which increases sediment load and destroys terrestrial and
stream habitat and the operation of dams and impoundments (agricultural ponds to large reservoirs) that
directly affect stream flows and fragment aquatic habitat. Results in impacts to the impounded portion of
the stream as well as habitats above and below the dam. Can reduce aquatic species ability to migrate or
intermingle which may lead to loss of genetic diversity.
R. Recreation Activities
Includes unmanaged recreation such as recreational overuse, particularly by ATVs (all terrain vehicles),
but also motorcycles, trucks, hiking, biking, caving, horseback riding, relic hunting, rock climbing and
boating (including the use of personal watercraft such as jet skis) in sensitive areas or at rates considered
unsustainable in the environments where they occur. Impacts may include habitat destruction and
disturbance as well as impaired water quality and improper trash disposal.
S. Second Home/Vacation Home Development
Includes secondary home construction including resort homes in ecologically sensitive areas such as
along streams and estuarine marshes, beaches and forests. Impacts may include habitat destruction,
disturbance, fragmentation and introduction of invasive species.