The Potomac River Threat Matrix -- it is never easy to rank potential
threats to such a vast and diverse resource area as the 15,000 square-mile Potomac River
Watershed. But, using the key factors of: a) ecosystem integrity, b) pollution potential, d)
consumption of open space and e) threat to historic resources we can make some
judgements about the truly large threats on the horizon. See what you think!
Overview of Leading threats:
Northern Snakehead Invasion: The new predator could mean the decimation of a
world-class native fishery along many miles of the lower river -- over 150 miles of river and
some 500,000 acres of aquatic habitat.
Maryland Techway proposal -- in addition to a roadway that would consume land,
spawn development and run-off, the Techway might also lead to a new bridge. Several
hundred square miles of land and water would feel the new pressure.
Western (VA) Techway proposal (WTC) -- the Dulles to route 7 proposal would
consume land, spawn development, and increase run off pollution.
Corridor H. secondary development -- the road through West Virginia is being
developed but without good planning on nearby lands, sprawl, loss of open space and
pollution will affect important Potomac headwaters areas. Several hundred square miles
will be affected.
Funding upkeep of the C&O Canal -- the Canal is a national park that needs
increased funding support from Congress to prevent. avoidable deterioration.
Threat Rating Matrix -- Top Five
.
Threat Scope Ecosystem Pollution Open Space History Score
Snakehaed Invasion of new Very High Low Low Low 10
harmful aquatic aquatic
predator ecology
MD Techway Cross-county High High High Mod 10
roadway and overall
possible bridge
Western Cross county High High High Mod 10
Techway roadway overall
Corridor H road-generated High High High Mod 10
Secondary development overall
development poorly planned
C&O Canal Lower public Low Low Low Very 10
Funding funding threat High History
levels to resource
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