Flooding and Invasive Species Study of Rock Creek in Montgomery County, Maryland

Abstract

The investigation of Rock Creek’s habitat is the focus of this study conducted by a high school student conducting the research for this scientific paper. This research matters because it explores a detailed area of Rock Creek and its surroundings. Rock Creek is primarily a woodland forest, and is used for biking, hiking, or observing wildlife. The signs of flooding and invasive species of Rock Creek were investigated, as well as the environment between the trail and the creek.. The measurement of the creek's water levels, the use of the Plant ID APP, habitat assessment tables, and a number of other techniques were implemented in this study. This work supplements previous work by providing detailed insights into what is off the trail, and also the parts of the creek prone to flooding and invasive species. Several signs of flooding and invasive species were found, including garlic mustard which is one of the most prevalent invasive species in Maryland. Throughout the study, a central question regarding the nature of flooding at Rock Creek was explored.