Michigan Department Of Natural Resources
Fisheries Research Report No.1851, 1977
The Effects of Sediment From a Gas-Oil Well Drilling Accident on Trout in Creeks of the Williamsburg Area, Michigan
Gaylord R. Alexander And Edward A. Hansen
Abstract.-A gas-oil well drilling accident caused abnormally large quantities of sediment-laden water to enter trout streams of the Williamsburg area, Michigan. No abnormal concentrations of dissolved solids or dissolved oxygen were noted and stream water temperatures were not elevated. However, sediment concentrations were greatly increased and some sediment deposition occurred on the streambed.
Spring and fall trout populations of Williamsburg Creek, the most affected stream, were reduced for a number of years. No measurable change in the trout stocks of Acme Creek, a lesser affected stream, were detected. No significant change in individual trout growth rate was noted for any of the streams. However, growth of trout biomass was reduced for Williamsburg Creek.