The term
"diversion" refers to the fact that part of the flow to be treated is
diverted from the main stream channel. "Well" refers to the physical
structure temporarily containing water diverted from the stream channel.
Located approximately 100 yards upstream of the wells are two intake
pipes which feed the water through nozzles into the wells with
sufficient force to pulverize the bed of limestone gravel. The intakes
are positioned such that only the circular well functions year round,
and the square well is activated only during periods of high stream
flow. The highly alkaline limestone particles reenter the main stream
channel and chemically react to neutralize acidic water originating
upstream from old coal mine drainages and acid precipitation from
rainfall.
Treating
the acidic water of Rausch Creek results in a significant increase in pH (the
greater the number, the less acidity), from an average of about 4.0 above the
wells to over 6.0 just below the discharge. Although the appearance of clear
water tumbling over the the rocks in the stream above the wells would lead the
casual observer to conclude that the water is of good quality, no fish life is
present there. In contrast, healthy brook trout can sometimes be observed just a
few yards downstream from the old bridge. Since Rausch Creek is the
largest tributary of Stony Creek, the treated water has a profound effect on the
main stem for a significant number of miles downstream. Routine measurements of
the pH near Ellendale Forge some 15 or so miles downstream reveal readings
averaging over 6.0, adequate to support a year‑round population of both brook
and brown trout. Although other factors such as a stream's temperature and
metals content also must be considered, research has shown that a minimum pH
threshold of 5.0 will support a trout population of all age classes. Prior to
the original diversion well installation in 1986, trout stocked in Stony Creek
survived for relatively short periods due to the higher acidity levels.
The
Doc Fritchey Chapter acknowledges the ongoing cooperation of the PA State Game
Commission in providing the opportunity to build and maintain these wells on
State Game Lands #211 property. The wells are maintained weekly on a year‑round
basis, and volunteers are always welcome to assist Doc Fritchey TU with this
work.
Click
on Upcoming for work schedules or other
information on our chapter's activities in Dauphin and Lebanon counties.
