Allegheny River Headwaters Watershed Conservation Plan

Allegheny River Headwaters Conservation Plan
Chapter 4. Biological Resources
HAVENS RUN CONSERVATION AREA (continued)
Threats: 2. Loss of forest cover within the riparian zone may result in physical degradation of the
stream channels, erosion, and sediment pollution in the streams, higher water temperatures,
and disruption of natural nutrient cycling linked to the stream.
3. Removal for forest cover on steep slopes is especially problematic because of the
potential for increased runoff and erosion following storm events.
Recommendations: 1. Timbering, road construction, and oil and gas development or other construction
activities should be kept well away from riparian corridors in order to avoid degrading
important aquatic and streamside habitat.
2. A high degree of forest cover should be maintained for additional protection of the water
quality and ecological integrity of the aquatic ecosystem.
3. Landowners engaged in timbering operations should implement best management
practices.
LOWER KNAPP CREEK CONSERVATION AREA
Description: The area encompasses a section of Knapp Creek and its associated riparian forest, which
provides habitat for the American brook lamprey and Leonard's skipper butterfly.
Significance: High
Location: Eldred Township, McKean County
Rare Occurrences: American brook lamprey, Leonard's skipper butterfly
Threats: 1. Alterations to water quality or sediment load impacts habitat for the American brook
lamprey.
2. Runoff from dirt and gravel roads in close proximity to streams can contribute to
physical degradation of stream channels, erosion, and pollution of the streams.
3. Loss of forest cover within riparian zones may result in increased water temperature and
distribution of natural nutrient cycling linked to streams.
Recommendations: Implement best management practices for stormwater management, agriculture, forestry,
and small urban sites when planning or conducting projects in Knapp Creek.
SMETHPORT UPLAND CONSERVATION AREA
Description: Upland forest that supports a species of concern that is not identified at the request of the
jurisdictional agency.
Significance: High
Location: Keating Township, McKean County
Rare Occurrences: Sensitive species #4
Threats: 1. Timber harvesting is a serous potential threat to nesting colonies of sensitive species #4.
2. Human disturbances, including casual visitation within approximately 330 feet.
3. Removal of trees (living or dead) may eliminate valuable habitat.
Recommendations: 1. Core habitat should be protected from disturbances by respecting an undisturbed forested
buffer of approximately 1,600 feet around the site.
2. Any logging operations in the vicinity of the site should be scheduled to occur in the fall
and early winter and strictly avoid early spring and summer.
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