In 1997, the U.S. Forest Service initiated a research project, evaluating the impact of acid deposition on national forest streams in WNC. LOS volunteers have assisted with the research, collecting water and aquatic insect samples, as well as recording pH. This project is the first of its kind to evaluate acidification in streams in Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Plans are for this monitoring to continue on a longterm basis.  We appreciate the hard work of Donley Hill and Sheryl Bryan of the USFS in making this project happen.

Data thus far indicate that a relatively small percentage of streams, under 10%, are seriously acidified. That doesn't mean, however, that there is no problem. Data also indicate that the acid neutralizing capacity (ANC), already low on many southern Appalachian streams, is being dangerously compromised on many streams by ongoing acid deposition.