FOREST HYDROLOGY IN THE PACIFIC-NORTHWEST - ADDITIONAL RESEARCH NEEDS

While much is known about the hydrology of forested mountain catchment s in the Pacific Northwest, important research questions remain. For e xample, the dynamics of storm precipitation amounts and the modeling o f catchment outflows represent a continuing research need. Without an improved understanding of the spatial and temporal aspects of storm pr ecipitation patterns, our ability to evaluate and improve physically-b ased hydrologic models is limited. From a practical perspective, tens of thousands of kilometers of access roads have been constructed acros s forested catchments of the Pacific Northwest. Yet, few forestry rese arch programs focus on road drainage (e.g., ditches, culverts, fords). The few studies that address this issue indicate Mad drainage systems need to function effectively over a wide range of flow events and ter rain conditions. In addition, historical forest practices associated w ith hillslopes and riparian systems have altered the character of many Pacific Northwest aquatic ecosystems. If restoration of these systems is to be effective, research efforts are needed to better understand the linkages between riparian forests, geomorphic processes, and hydro logic disturbance regimes.