Joachim Creek Watershed Condition
Habitat
- Joachim Creek is 34.8 miles long and drains an area of 172 square miles that consist primarily of rugged, substantially forested hills.
- Upper portions and tributaries are clear and spring fed with excellent riffle and pool habitats.
- Agricultural land use along Joachim Creek often limits the riparian corridor.
Biological
- Upper Joachim Creek supports 39 species of fish and a diverse invertebrate community.
- Fish fauna is composed mainly of Ozark species with a few prairie species penetrating to the southernmost limits of their range, making Joachim an excellent example of an Ozark border stream.
- Lower Joachim Creek flows through the Mississippi River flood plain. Fish fauna in this portion include many river species such as buffalo, gar, and carp.
People
- Development in the watershed is having a negative effect on the stream by increasing sedimentation and storm water drainage and by destroying important headwater tributaries.
- Joachim is an excellent wade fishing stream. Angling for sport fish such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, sunfish and catfish is very popular.
- Active stream teams are already in place.
- Potential for greenway development in communities along Joachim is promising.
- Diverse recreational opportunities on private and public lands.
How Can You Help Joachim Creek?
- help influence land use decisions
- support laws that protect water quality
- use and dispose of harmful chemicals carefully
- report pollution and water quality violations
- support restoration of wetlands.
- join or form a Stream Team
- for more information visit us at www.mdc.mo.gov
