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Contemporary Environmental Assessment Using a Viability Analysis in a Large River System to Inform Restoration and Adaptive Management Decisions

Scientific Investigations Report 2019-5002
By: , , , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20195002

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Abstract

As large-scale restoration plans for degraded aquatic habitats evolve, it is essential that multiorganizational collaborations have a common vision to achieve consensus on restoration goals. Development of restoration targets and postrestoration monitoring strategies can be focused using a viability analysis framework that supports an adaptive management process. Viability analysis is a robust and accommodating framework, adaptable to any restoration monitoring program and, through the determination of common desired endpoints, can aid consensus building and collaboration across jurisdictional boundaries. In the St. Clair-Detroit River System, which is the Great Lakes connecting channel between southern Lake Huron and western Lake Erie, a viability analysis framework was used to evaluate environmental parameters associated with fisheries and aquatic restoration efforts and to gauge the overall health of the aquatic environment. Steps to derive the viability analysis were as follows: (1) establishing meaningful baseline metrics, (2) identifying information deficiencies, and (3) placing the context of current conditions into a usable format for managers and practitioners. Most geographic segments were designated in overall fair condition, and the conservation targets were designated in either good or fair condition, based on available assessed indicators. Many indicators were unable to be assessed or assigned condition status, which identified research and monitoring data gaps. Metrics associated with native migratory fishes, Lake St. Clair, and islands are generally in better condition than metrics associated with the coastal terrestrial systems, aerial migrants, and coastal wetlands. These results were not unexpected given the highly urbanized landscape of the St. Clair-Detroit River System. Resource managers in the corridor can use these results to identify knowledge gaps, research and restoration priorities, and to assess progress towards meeting restoration goals.

Suggested Citation

DeBruyne, R.L., Roseman, E.F., Ross, J.E., Newman, K.R., and Strach, R.M., 2019, Contemporary environmental assessment using a viability analysis in a large river system to inform restoration and adaptive management decisions: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2019–5002, 59 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20195002.

ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)

Study Area

Table of Contents

  • Acknowledgments
  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Methods
  • Results
  • Discussion
  • References Cited
  • Appendix 1. Indicator Descriptions
  • Target—Main Channels
  • Target—Lake St. Clair
  • Target—Native Migratory Fishes
  • Target—Islands
  • Target—Coastal Wetlands
  • Target—Coastal Terrestrial Systems
  • Target—Aerial Migrants
  • References Cited
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Contemporary environmental assessment using a viability analysis in a large river system to inform restoration and adaptive management decisions
Series title Scientific Investigations Report
Series number 2019-5002
DOI 10.3133/sir20195002
Year Published 2019
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Great Lakes Science Center
Description xi, 59 p.
Country Canada, United States
State Michigan, Ontario
Other Geospatial St. Clair-Detroit River System
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details