University of California Water Resources Center

From 1976-1983, a series of studies were undertaken at The Geysers K.G.R.A. in Sonoma and Lake Counties, California to evaluate the effects of geothermal energy development on aquatic biota at The Geysers. A major objective throughout the eight years of the research project has been to develop quantitative methods to analyze and monitor benthic communities. This report summarizes the methods used and presents examples of the data such approaches have produced.

Each report on a sampling approach contains: (1) a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of the device; (2) an illustration of the device; (3) a description of its use either at The Geysers or in pilot studies to test the appropriateness of its use at The Geysers; and (4) a sample data set.