Research on aquatic ecology in the Naban River and restoration suggestions

A study on the Naban River watershed within Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine beech forest and biodiversity, reveals significantly higher water discharge rates compared to nearby sites and other Japanese catchment areas. The research, conducted from 2009 to 2011, analyzed precipitation, water quality (including Total Nitrogen, Total Phosphorus, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Electrical Conductivity, and turbidity), and runoff load using the R-Ld equation. Findings indicate ordinary water discharge rates of 4.81-5.42 mm/day, low water discharge at 2.82-3.43 mm/day, and droughty conditions at 1.21-1.97 mm/day, estimated via the H-Q equation. These results highlight the watershed's robust water holding capacity, contrasting with areas dominated by planted coniferous forests like the Sunako Stream.

Zhao, N., Wang, Z., Xu, M., Han, L., & Zhou, X. (2014). Research on aquatic ecology in the Naban River and restoration suggestions. River Flow 2014, 2363–2369. https://doi.org/10.1201/b17133-315