Science to support adaptive habitat management: Overton Bottoms North Unit, Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, Missouri

Abstract

Many of the current issues faced by land and water management agencies are complex and often have resulted from past management practices and the competition among users for limited resources. Decisions about resource use often require an understanding of the potential results of alternative management actions. This understanding is based upon knowledge about the interactions of the many components which make up a watershed or ecosystem, and the science necessary to develop this foundation requires experts from many disciplines working together. At USGS, our mission to provide reliable scientific information is enhanced through this interdisciplinary approach to science problems and provides managers with a more complete understanding on which to base their decisions. This report is the result of applying an interdisciplinary approach to the issues of ecosystem function in the channel and flood plain of the Lower Missouri River. Thomas J. Casadevall Regional Director, Central Region U.S. Geological Survey facilitated by Thomas Bell, Refuge Manager, and Maureen Gallagher, who was the Refuge Biologist during this study. We also benefited from access to adjacent areas of Overton Bottoms managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Many of the ideas in this report developed through numerous discussions with scientists and managers working on the Lower Missouri River.