A presentation by: 

Analiese Terrell - Master’s Degree Student in Environmental Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder, Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research

Lincoln Creek has been studied for heavy metal contamination, but little research has examined how these metals affect the aquatic life living in the creek. This study focuses on sensitive aquatic insects, including mayflies and stoneflies, which can help indicate the health of a stream. By comparing these communities in Lincoln Creek and the Roaring Fork River before and after the two waterways meet, this research will explore how metal contamination may affect aquatic life downstream. The findings will help address a critical gap in understanding the biological impacts of naturally occurring mineralization and legacy mine drainage in Colorado’s high-alpine watersheds.