Study finds streams recovering from acid rain

A long-term study conducted by the University of Virginia, found that trout inhabited streams are showing signs of recovery after a decades of acid rain damage. Since an environmental survey in 1987, University scientists have been continuously monitoring lake activity in conjunction with Trout Unlimited, a conservation group, and federal and state agencies. According to the university’s news release, “The study demonstrates a clear improvement in water quality between the 2000 and 2010 surveys.” In addition, the data collected from these surveys help scientists determine the health of headwater in parts of western Virginia.

Scientists plan to continue long-term monitoring by conducting surveys every 10 years. Additionally, scientists have launched a $500,000 fundraising campaign to support the ongoing studies. Although scientists are hopeful, some believe that certain streams may never fully recover. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 were cited by scientists involved in the study as responsible for the sharp drop in air contaminants that cause acid rain.

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