Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Rocky Mountain CESU

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The USGS, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center (NOROCK), is offering a funding opportunity is to explore the impact of global climate change on the structure and function of freshwater systems. To date, no studies have comprehensively assessed the potential effects of climate change on aquatic ecosystems in the Great Northern Landscape. The proposed research aims to build on an existing climate change research project focused on hydrologic and thermal effects on foodwebs and lotic habitats in the transboundary (US and Canada) Flathead River system. In the research new and existing techniques will be applied for combining downscaled climate spatial data with fine-scale aquatic species vulnerability assessments (invertebrates→fish), population genetic data and remotely sensed riparian and aquatic habitat analysis. Results are anticipated to have the potential to be used to identify populations and habitats most susceptible to the impacts of climate change; develop monitoring and evaluation programs; inform future research needs; and develop conservation delivery options in response to climate change and other stressors (e.g., habitat loss and invasive species) that are often complicated or exacerbated by climate change.

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