GLNF- CESU: Pilot Study of Acoustic Monitoring Research in Midwest Parks

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This pilot research project implemented by the University of Vermont, Burlington, will set up a new type of acoustic monitoring for wildlife at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. One goal is to incorporate adaptive management methodologies, tracking, and analyses into implementation of INDU’s Resource Stewardship Strategy (RSS). This monitoring research will help assess if management actions taken to restore the wetlands and savannas at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore are effective. This critical research will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and approaches. The use of cell phones to collect and transmit acoustic data and imagery automatically is novel and has potential to significantly conserve public resources by reducing staff time needed for both field visits and audio interpretation. This project has significant benefits for science, the local community, recreation, and education.  This effort will contribute to the advancement of scientific methodology and dissemination of the results to the public and be able to provide more species monitoring at more sites at a significant cost savings.  Also, the project will help INDU engage partners and local communities in shared environmental stewardship.

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