Publication Summary

Ecology studied primary productivity in the Box Canyon reach of Washington's Pend Oreille River during the summer of 1990. Primary productivity was in the middle to upper range reported in literature for larger rivers. Highest productivity was measured at river mile 66.5 and attributed to extensive macrophyte beds. The productivity/respiration ratio indicates an autotrophic classification. Skookum, Bracket, and South Fork Lost Creek fecal coliform densities exceeded Class A water quality criteria. Recommendations are included to address nonpoint pollution problems from agricultural practices on specific tributaries.