Lockhart Instream Flow Study
Lockhart Power Company
Lockhart, SC
Kleinschmidt completed an intensive instream flow study using the Instream
Flow Incremental Methodology (IFIM) in a 1.5 mile long bypass reach of
South Carolina's Broad River. In consultation with resource agencies, Kleinschmidt
staff negotiated a study plan and conducted all field measurements, habitat modeling, analysis,
and report preparation for this study of flow needs to protect and enhance
fisheries resources. Habitat discharge relations were developed for a total
of 32 life stages of ten evaluation species, including smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish,
white bass, silver redhorse, striped jumprock, northern hog sucker, margined
madtom, bluehead chub, central stoneroller, and whitefin shiner. This habitat
assessment involved the development of Suitability Index Criteria (SI curves) based
on suitability criteria previously developed for guilds of fish species
in southeastern streams. Habitat-flow relations within the bypass were modeled
from a series of measurements at eight study transects and through use of the IFG-4 hydraulic model. Flow relations
were determined separately for species preferring riffle, run, and pool habitats.
The study resulted in a proposal to provide a three-tiered flow release schedule with four distinct seasonal releases: early mid spring, late spring, summer, and a fall-winter release. The resulting report was well received by both reviewing fisheries agencies and the project owner. The final negotiated flow regime was based on the results of this study and complementary economic analyses.
For more information contact Henry Mealing.