ABSTRACT
While the chemical, physical, and biological qualities of waters draining commercial forest lands are generally quite good, harvesting and planting of trees can temporarily alter streamflows, water chemistry, and biotic communities. The magnitude and duration of water quality effects vary with environmental setting but can be controlled to a large degree by implementing best management practices (BMPs) to protect water quality. Minimization of bare and compacted soil areas and dispersal of road runoff are critical for protecting water quality in commercial forests.
