

Full Title
Terrestrial habitat vulnerabilityOverview
Assess the vulnerability of the approximately 71 ecological systems that exist completely or partially within the South Atlantic and are nested within the 9 South Atlantic LCC ecosystem types. This assessment will be done in a nationally consistent framework to allow comparisons across other LCCs...Assess the vulnerability of the approximately 71 ecological systems that exist completely or partially within the South Atlantic and are nested within the 9 South Atlantic LCC ecosystem types. This assessment will be done in a nationally consistent framework to allow comparisons across other LCCsWhy Selected
Most of the LCC work focuses on the 9 broad ecosystem types of the region. This project helps identify vulnerabilities that may occur in habitat types within each ecosystem. This will help evaluate whether certain habitats fall through the cracks of broader planning approaches and identify some opportunities for improvement

Full Title
Managing instream flows of the SALCCOverview
The Southeast Aquatic Resource Partnership will direct development of science-based instream flow information for water resource managers and policy makers of the SALCC. The outcome of this project will help inform water resource managers and policy makers about flow requirements of streams, rivers,...The Southeast Aquatic Resource Partnership will direct development of science-based instream flow information for water resource managers and policy makers of the SALCC. The outcome of this project will help inform water resource managers and policy makers about flow requirements of streams, rivers, and estuaries of the SALCC region. It will also identify critical information gaps that must be filled to reduce the uncertainty of streamflow requirements for aquatic ecosystems used by state and federal agencies to protect water resources. Further, the results of this project will include assessments of the likely impacts of climate change to the region’s aquatic resources Learn more »Why Selected
This project provides a synthesis of key information needed for developing flow-ecology relationships in the SALCCProducts
Ready for download Assessment of hydrologic models covering the SALCC Completed 02/2012. Flow ecology literature meta-analysis
Flow ecology literature database
Regional fish sampling data input in MARIS

Full Title
South Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity Assessment & ToolOverview
This project will build off a current SALCC collaboration with SARP to: 1) Provide a foundational assessment of aquatic connectivity for target aquatic species 2) An online tool to help evaluate and prioritize dam modifications/removal for key species...This project will build off a current SALCC collaboration with SARP to: 1) Provide a foundational assessment of aquatic connectivity for target aquatic species 2) An online tool to help evaluate and prioritize dam modifications/removal for key speciesWhy Selected
While your cooperative is making progress on terrestrial connectivity, aquatic connectivity and the effects of potential actions to improve that connectivity are still lackingProducts
Ready for download Assessment of aquatic connectivity based on spatially explicit estimates of small (and large) barriers and their potential to benefit target aquatic species if mitigated throughout the SALCC Completed 12/2014. A web map will allow users to interact with and download the project datasets - and will include a prioritization tool integrated into the web map that will enable users to run custom scenarios at various scales and for different target species Completed 12/2014. Coming soon Outreach video about the importance of aquatic connectivity and mentioning the tool

Full Title
Synthesis of High and Low Marsh Habitat Mapping, Vulnerability and Responses to Sea-Level Rise in the South Atlantic RegionOverview
This project provides consistent spatial datasets on high and low marsh depicting historic distributions and dynamics, current distributions, and future vulnerability. Project provides estimates for the entire South Atlantic region and additional detailed information for 3 intensive study areas in N...This project provides consistent spatial datasets on high and low marsh depicting historic distributions and dynamics, current distributions, and future vulnerability. Project provides estimates for the entire South Atlantic region and additional detailed information for 3 intensive study areas in NC, SC, and GA.Why Selected
High and low marsh habitats are already facing the biggest changes from future threats like sea level rise. Improved mapping of these distinct habitat types will provide better predictions for how key coastal zone resources are changing.Products
In progressMap of marsh distributions and dynamics
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2016
Maps generated using a suite of passive remote sensing (balloon- and airplane-based aerial photos and satellite imagery)- active sensing (LiDAR) and field mappingHistorical marsh mapping
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2016
Historic high and low marsh boundaries including decadal shifts - vegetation change - migration rates - and phragmites when presentHigh and low marsh vulnerability assessment
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2016
Detailed vulnerability assessment for the three focus areas in NC - SC - GAImproved marsh mapping with LiDAR and SAR
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2016
Improved maps by incorporating SAR and LiDAR for improved resolution and distinction of vegetation

Full Title
SMART-SLEUTH: Augmenting the SLEUTH Urban Growth Model with New Smart-Growth Scenario- Building CapabilitiesOverview
This project will build off of current SALCC urban growth models to: 1) Consistent spatial dataset depicting the potential impact of smart growth practices and 2) An online tool to interactively explore the impact of potential growth scenarios across the entire SALCC...This project will build off of current SALCC urban growth models to: 1) Consistent spatial dataset depicting the potential impact of smart growth practices and 2) An online tool to interactively explore the impact of potential growth scenarios across the entire SALCCWhy Selected
Urban growth likely has the largest impact on natural and cultural resources in the SALCC. By incorporating smart growth practices as one scenario in SALCC urban growth models, the cooperative would be able to visualize and evaluate the potential benefits of smart growth policies on natural and cultural resources.Products
n progressModeling framework
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 02/2016
Develop SMART-SLEUTH - an advanced spatially explicit modeling framework designed to augment the current SLEUTH model with sophisticated smart-growth capabilities.Smart growth scenario analysis
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 02/2016
Conduct scenario analyses to assess the impacts of smart-growth practices in the entire South Atlantic region.

Full Title
Regionalized Sensitivity Analysis and Related Techniques Applied to Landscape and Ecological Response ModelsOverview
This project will: 1) Integrate SALCC landscape change models and ecological response models, 2) Identify key drivers of change in ecological response models, 3) Assess how potential monitoring and research could be prioritized to reduce major sources of uncertainty (and hence the risk in any decisi...This project will: 1) Integrate SALCC landscape change models and ecological response models, 2) Identify key drivers of change in ecological response models, 3) Assess how potential monitoring and research could be prioritized to reduce major sources of uncertainty (and hence the risk in any decisions informed by the model).Why Selected
Understanding the biggest drivers of change and the uncertainty in those predictions will be essential in targeting both future research and conservation actions in the SALCCProducts
In progressSensitivity analysis of landscape models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 11/2014
Identification of the most important variables in linked SALCC landscape and ecological modelsValue of information assessment
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 11/2014
Value of information assessments (VOIA) will be conducted at each site to assess how proposed monitoring and research programs might reduce uncertainty (and hence the risk in any decisions informed by the model).

Full Title
Development of Regional Estuarine and Marine Natural Resource Maps for the South AtlanticOverview
This project will develop consistent spatial datasets depicting seafloor habitats, migratory species (e.g. cetaceans, sea turtles, diadromous fish) distributions, and estuarine and coastal habitats. The project steering committee will be the healthy ecosystems team of the South Atlantic Alliance wit...This project will develop consistent spatial datasets depicting seafloor habitats, migratory species (e.g. cetaceans, sea turtles, diadromous fish) distributions, and estuarine and coastal habitats. The project steering committee will be the healthy ecosystems team of the South Atlantic Alliance with additional members added if needed.Why Selected
While great progress is being made on terrestrial and freshwater systems, SALCC conservation planning models are being limited by consistent data on estuarine and marine ecosystems. This will help SALCC planning models estimate vulnerability and response to conservation actions for many key coastal and aquatic species.Products
n progressGIS data
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 12/2013
Consistent spatial datasets depicting seafloor habitats - migratory species (e.g. cetaceans - sea turtles - diadromous fish) distributions - and estuarine and coastal habitats

Full Title
Demonstration of a Unified Hydrologic Model for Assessing Human and Climate Impacts on Streamflows at Multiple Geographic ScalesOverview
The project predicts baseline instream flows for all NHD+ catchments in the SALCC and altered, and future instream flows based on urban growth and climate change for catchments within 6 HUC6 watersheds....The project predicts baseline instream flows for all NHD+ catchments in the SALCC and altered, and future instream flows based on urban growth and climate change for catchments within 6 HUC6 watersheds.Why Selected
Water scarcity is a major emerging issue in the South Atlantic and the project will provide a consistent way of predicting the future impacts of land use and water management decisions on the quantity and timing of freshwater flowsProducts
Ready for download Final report on project results Completed 10/2013. In progressUnaltered flow assessment
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 05/2014
Access to unaltered flow data for each NHDPlus catchment in SALCCAltered flows for select watersheds
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 05/2014
Access to altered flow data for all NHDPlus segments within the selected watersheds including comparative hydrographs and flow duration curvesFuture flows for select watersheds
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 05/2014
Access to projected flow data for 2 future scenarios

Full Title
Mechanisms of Aquatic Species Invasions Across the SALCCOverview
This project will provide: 1) Predictions of current and future distributions of nonindigenous aquatic species (NAS) and 2) Estimates of the benefits of potential conservation and management strategies. This project builds off of a large national database that tracks nonindigenous aquatic species....This project will provide: 1) Predictions of current and future distributions of nonindigenous aquatic species (NAS) and 2) Estimates of the benefits of potential conservation and management strategies. This project builds off of a large national database that tracks nonindigenous aquatic species.Why Selected
Changes in human populations and connectivity could potentially have large changes in how, where, and when species invasions occur. These invasions can have major impacts on natural, cultural, and socioeconomic resources and are not incorporated in SALCC planning models.Products
In progressSpecies invasion model
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2014
Model of the spread of invasive species in the SALCC and use these models to predict future invasion pathways relying on GCM forecasts – SLEUTH - and other Designing Sustainable Landscapes (DSL) productsImpacts of potential management actions
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2014
Derive the benefits of potential conservation and management strategies within a formal decision-analytic framework to be developed with SALCC input

Full Title
A Handbook for Resource Managers to Understand and Utilize Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Wetland Models for Ecosystem Management under Future ConditionsOverview
A handbook will be constructed from training and feedback sessions with FWS resource staff and other coastal managers (NOAA, NPS) of published decision-support tools and simulation models for sea-level rise and climate change assessments. Various sea-level rise and coastal wetland models have been d...A handbook will be constructed from training and feedback sessions with FWS resource staff and other coastal managers (NOAA, NPS) of published decision-support tools and simulation models for sea-level rise and climate change assessments. Various sea-level rise and coastal wetland models have been developed and applied using different designs and scales of spatial and temporal complexity for predicting habitat and environmental change that have not heretofore been synthesized to aid natural resource managers of their utility and limitations. Some are more accessible as online tools while others require more expert capacity to parameterize and run for any given park, refuge, reserve, or regional application. Training sessions will be conducted with Federal land managers from FWS, NPS, and NOAA across the pan-Gulf and South Atlantic states of the southeastern U.S. to educate and evaluate user needs and understanding of concepts, data, and modeling tools for projecting sea-level rise and its impact on coastal habitats and wildlife. A simplified tabular context will be developed by list of decision-support tools, ecological models, and criteria to distinguish the source, scale, and quality of input information and geographic data sets, physical and biological constraints and relationships, datum characteristics of water and land elevation components, utility options for setting sea-level rise and climate change scenarios, and ease or difficulty of storing, displaying, or interpreting model output. The handbook will provide a layman’s guide to understanding climate change based on a practical synthesis of the current state of knowledge and tools suitable for DOI land management need and facilitating Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) science and conservations initiatives.Why Selected
As more coastal managers use future predictions in management decisions, non technical descriptions of the strengths and weakness of future change models are becoming increasingly important. This project includes models and coastal managers throughout the entire LCCProducts
In progressHandbook for using sea level rise models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 06/2013
The handbook will provide a layman’s guide to understanding climate change based on a practical synthesis of the current state of knowledge and tools suitable for coastal land management

Full Title
Ecological implications of mangrove forest migration in the southeastern United StatesOverview
Winter climate change has the potential to have a large impact on coastal wetlands in the southeastern U.S. Warmer winter temperatures and reductions in the intensity of freeze events would likely lead to mangrove forest range expansion and salt marsh displacement in parts of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico...Winter climate change has the potential to have a large impact on coastal wetlands in the southeastern U.S. Warmer winter temperatures and reductions in the intensity of freeze events would likely lead to mangrove forest range expansion and salt marsh displacement in parts of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coast. The objective of the proposed research is to better evaluate the ecological implications of mangrove forest migration and salt marsh displacement. The potential ecological impacts of mangrove migration are diverse ranging from important biotic impacts (e.g., coastal fisheries, land bird migration; colonial nesting wading birds) to ecosystem stability (e.g., response to sea level rise and drought; habitat loss; coastal protection) to biogeochemical processes (e.g., carbon storage; water quality). The proposed research will investigate the impact of mangrove forest migration on coastal wetland soil processes and the consequent implications for coastal wetland responses to sea level rise and carbon storageWhy Selected
The potential replacement of salt marshes with mangrove forest on the coasts of North Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina due to climate change could have major effects on ecosystem function. This project covers the entire coastal area of the SALCC potentially impacted by mangrove migrationProducts
In progressAssessment of ecosystem impacts
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2014
Predicted impacts of mangrove forest migration on coastal wetland soil processes and the consequent implications for coastal wetland responses to sea level rise and carbon storage

Full Title
Connectivity for Climate Change in the Southeastern United StatesOverview
Climate change is already affecting biodiversity, changing the dates when birds arrive to breed and when flowers bloom in spring, and shifting the ranges of species as they move to cooler places. One problem for wildlife as their ranges shift is that their path is often impeded – their habitats ha...Climate change is already affecting biodiversity, changing the dates when birds arrive to breed and when flowers bloom in spring, and shifting the ranges of species as they move to cooler places. One problem for wildlife as their ranges shift is that their path is often impeded – their habitats have become fragmented by agriculture and urbanization, presenting barriers to their migration. Because of this, the most common recommended strategy to protect wildlife as climate changes is to connect their habitats, providing them safe passage. There are great challenges to implementing this strategy in the southeastern U.S., however, because most intervening lands between habitat patches are held in private ownership. We will combine data on key wildlife species and their habitats throughout the southeastern U.S. with new computer modeling technologies that allow us to identify key connections that will be robust to regional and global changes in climate and land useWhy Selected
This project builds off existing terrestrial connectivity work in the SALCC and Peninsular FL LCC to produce a consistent estimate of key corridors throughout the southeast in the face of future change (climate, sea level rise, urban growth, etc)Products
In progressMaps of key corridors
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2014
GIS layers of key corridors that are robust to climate and land use change

Full Title
Assessing climate-sensitive ecosystems in the southeastern United StatesOverview
This study will develop a regional synthesis of the types, geographic distribution and controls, scientific understanding, and conservation status of spatially discrete endemic or disjunct ecosystems whose hydrology, soils, or physiography make them especially sensitive to shifts in regional precipi...This study will develop a regional synthesis of the types, geographic distribution and controls, scientific understanding, and conservation status of spatially discrete endemic or disjunct ecosystems whose hydrology, soils, or physiography make them especially sensitive to shifts in regional precipitation or temperature throughout the Southeast and the Caribbean. We will synthesize existing information on current threats, climate change impacts, and the capacity of these ecosystems to adapt to climate change. We will combine data from ecological and geographic databases, scientific literature, technical reports, and expert knowledge to assess climate affects.Why Selected
This project covers the entire terrestrial portion of the SALCC and synthesizes the current understanding of how climate change will affect our most sensitive ecosystemsProducts
In progressClimate vulnerability assessment for ecosystems
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2013
Synthesis of existing information on current threats - climate change impacts - and the capacity of these ecosystems to adapt to climate change

Full Title
Communicating and Using Uncertain Scientific Information in the Production of ‘Actionable Science’Overview
Conservation practitioners must navigate many challenges to advance effective natural-resource management in the presence of multiple uncertainties. Numerous climatic and ecological changes remain on the horizon, and their eventual consequences are not completely understood. Even so, their influence...Conservation practitioners must navigate many challenges to advance effective natural-resource management in the presence of multiple uncertainties. Numerous climatic and ecological changes remain on the horizon, and their eventual consequences are not completely understood. Even so, their influences are expected to impact important resources and the people that depend on them across local, regional, and sometimes global scales. Although forecasts of future conditions are almost always imperfect, decision makers are increasingly expected to communicate and use uncertain information when making policy choices that affect multiple user groups. The degree to which management objectives are met can depend on 1) how critical uncertainties are identified and accounted for, and 2) effective communication among user groups, scientists, and resource managers. The objective of this project is to help facilitate strategic decision support and synthesize the state of the science related to communicating and using uncertain information in conservation decision making. By providing a forum on the communication of scientific uncertainty, we aim to traverse traditional disciplinary boundaries, with a focus on climate change in the southeastern United States. We expect this process to generate transferable guidance that will directly assist resource managers across agencies to identify common goals and shared research prioritiesWhy Selected
Given the "forward looking" focus of the SALCC understanding how to communicate the uncertainty in future projections will be particularly importantProducts
In progressGuidance on communicating uncertainty
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 06/2013
Guidance on communicating uncertainty based on a synthesis of the state of the science related to communicating and using uncertain information in conservation decision making

Full Title
Optimal Conservation Strategies to Cope with Climate ChangeOverview
Develop a framework to help partners identify how natural and cultural resources will be vulnerable to future change (climate, urban growth) and where to take action to sustain those resources across the South Atlantic LCC Learn more »...Develop a framework to help partners identify how natural and cultural resources will be vulnerable to future change (climate, urban growth) and where to take action to sustain those resources across the South Atlantic LCC Learn more »Why Selected
This project seeks to develop a conservation planning framework for the SALCCProducts
In progressPrototype maps
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 01/2013
Prototype GIS maps depicting priority places - actions - and potential times for actions to sustain natural and cultural resources in the face of future changeRevised maps
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 01/2014
Revised GIS maps depicting priority places - actions - and potential times for actions to sustain natural and cultural resources in the face of future change
Full Title
Identifying priority areas for land protection in the South Atlantic: a landscape genetics pilot studyOverview
Identifies genetic “hotspots” for sustaining populations and maintaining within-species adaptive capacity throughout the LCC. Evaluates the overlap between these genetic “hotspots” and current priority conservation areas. Creates an automated tool to update genetic “hotspots” as new data...Identifies genetic “hotspots” for sustaining populations and maintaining within-species adaptive capacity throughout the LCC. Evaluates the overlap between these genetic “hotspots” and current priority conservation areas. Creates an automated tool to update genetic “hotspots” as new data become available. Learn more »Why Selected
This project will help SALCC conservation planning better inform terrestrial and aquatic decision making by identifying important areas for maintaining genetically viable populations and the adaptive capacity for species to respond to future changeProducts
Ready for download Detailed report on genetic "hotspots" based on patterns of intraspecific genetic diversity and divergence Completed 03/2013. In progressGIS layer of genetic "hotspots"
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2013
GIS layer of genetic "hotspots" based on patterns of intraspecific genetic diversity and divergence
Full Title
Effects of sea level rise on sea turtle, shorebird, seabird, and beach mouse nesting distributions within the South Atlantic regionOverview
Links long-term survey data for four species of sea turtle, three species of shorebird, five species of seabird, and two beach mouse species to maps of coastal sea level rise vulnerability to understand the effects of sea level rise on population viability and socioeconomic resources. The coastal st...Links long-term survey data for four species of sea turtle, three species of shorebird, five species of seabird, and two beach mouse species to maps of coastal sea level rise vulnerability to understand the effects of sea level rise on population viability and socioeconomic resources. The coastal study areas include nesting beaches from North Carolina south to Melbourne, Florida. Learn more »Why Selected
This project will help LCC conservation planning better inform coastal decision making by evaluating the impact of sea level rise on beach nesting species and socioeconomic resourcesProducts
In progressHabitat suitability maps
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 10/2013
Habitat suitability maps for 14 coastal nesting species (based on density of nests - nesting pairs - or burrows)Vulnerability of suitable habitat to sea level rise
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 10/2013
Integration of coastal vulnerability to sea level rise with habitat suitability mapsSocioeconomic cost of beach species vulnerability and benefits of adaptation
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 10/2013
Socioeconomic costs of the effects of sea level rise and storm surges on coastal nesting species and the socioeconomic benefits of adaptation strategies

Full Title
Determining priority amphibian and reptile conservation areas for the South Atlantic Region, and assessing their efficacy for cross-taxa conservationOverview
Identifies areas throughout the LCC needed to sustain amphibian and reptile populations in the face of future change. Evaluates the abilities of these areas to sustain populations of other non amphibian and reptiles species. L...Identifies areas throughout the LCC needed to sustain amphibian and reptile populations in the face of future change. Evaluates the abilities of these areas to sustain populations of other non amphibian and reptiles species. Learn more »Why Selected
This project will help LCC conservation planning better inform decision making in terrestrial and aquatic systems by providing species response models and core areas needed for sustaining amphibian and reptile populations.Products
In progressSpecies distribution models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2014
Fine scaled species distribution models for key amphibians and reptilesPriority amphibian and reptile conservation area (PARCA) locations
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2014
GIS layers of priority areas for conserving amphibians and reptilesClimate and urban growth threats to to PARCAs
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2014
Assessment of the threats of urban growth and climate change to PARCAsOverlap of PARCAs with other resources
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2014
Assessment of overlap of PARCAs with important areas for other taxa and cultural resources
Full Title
Identifying and prioritizing key habitat connectivity areas for the South Atlantic RegionOverview
This project: 1) Maps out current and future levels of habitat connectivity in the South Atlantic region, from the standpoint of multiple groups of terrestrial wildlife species and 2) Prioritizes key corridors and linkage areas based on their relative importance and centrality within the overall hab...This project: 1) Maps out current and future levels of habitat connectivity in the South Atlantic region, from the standpoint of multiple groups of terrestrial wildlife species and 2) Prioritizes key corridors and linkage areas based on their relative importance and centrality within the overall habitat network and their relative influence on the viability of target wildlife populations Learn more »Why Selected
This project will help LCC conservation planning better inform terrestrial conservation planning and corridor design by identifying key areas for habitat connectivity and providing models for how large ranging species may respond to future changes in connectivityProducts
In progressCurrent and future connectivity
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2014
GIS layers of current and future levels of habitat connectivity in the South Atlantic region from the perspective of multiple groups of terrestrial speciesPrioritization of habitat connections
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 03/2014
Prioritization of key corridors and linkage areas based on their relative importance and centrality within the overall habitat network and their relative influence on the viability of target wildlife populations

Full Title
Identifying and Integrating Optimal Cultural and Natural Sustainability Strategies For the South Atlantic RegionOverview
An assessment of current distribution of cultural resources, cultural resource sustainability strategies, and the potential for integrating natural and cultural resource sustainability strategies in the South Atlantic LCC region An assessment of current distribution of cultural resources, cultural resource sustainability strategies, and the potential for integrating natural and cultural resource sustainability strategies in the South Atlantic LCC region Learn more »Why Selected
This project will help LCC conservation planning better integrate natural and cultural resources in decision making by integrating existing cultural resource data and identifying potential areas of overlap between natural and cultural resource management strategies.Products
Ready for download Literature review of cultural resource sustainability strategies Completed 09/2012. Action plan for integrating natural and cultural resource sustainability strategies Completed 09/2012. In progressCompilation of cultural resource data
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2012
Compilation of cultural resource GIS data for the South Atlantic region

Full Title
Seamless LiDAR coverage for SALCCOverview
Merging LiDAR data sets throughout the South Atlantic LCC to create a consistent layer of elevation, canopy cover, and solar irradiance....Merging LiDAR data sets throughout the South Atlantic LCC to create a consistent layer of elevation, canopy cover, and solar irradiance.Why Selected
LiDAR data is a key data source for predicting current and future ecosystem conditions (e.g., sea level rise, locations of small isolated wetlands, etc). This project is coordinator with other efforts in the region (USGS, NOAA) to produce a seamless LiDAR layer for the SALCCProducts
In progressSeamless LiDAR layer
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: UNDEFINED/UNDEFINED
Seamless and consistent GIS layer of Lidar derived layers

Full Title
Enhancing the utility of International Shorebird Survey data managementOverview
Increase the utility of the International Shorebird Survey for making management and conservation decisions by creating a single, effective data management system. Learn more »...Increase the utility of the International Shorebird Survey for making management and conservation decisions by creating a single, effective data management system. Learn more »Why Selected
Lack of consistent data management has hindered a number of regional modeling efforts in the South Atlantic. This project is designed to help improve data management for shorebirds throughout the SALCC.Products
Ready for download Improved data portal with new information and data entry backlog cleared Completed 06/2012.

Full Title
Coastal Wetland Dynamics and Wildlife Populations: Modeling the Effects of Sea Level Rise and Landscape ChangeOverview
Assess the potential impacts of sea level rise on coastal ecosystems and related wildlife resources. Develop a Bayesian Belief network that projects the impact of sea level rise on coastal wetland habitats. Develop marshbird habitat models using a Bayesian hierarchical framework and integrate physic...Assess the potential impacts of sea level rise on coastal ecosystems and related wildlife resources. Develop a Bayesian Belief network that projects the impact of sea level rise on coastal wetland habitats. Develop marshbird habitat models using a Bayesian hierarchical framework and integrate physical parameters and estimates of coastal wetland change to predict future land use change in terms of species distributionWhy Selected
Understanding the impacts of sea level rise of key coastal species will particular important in developing overall adaptation strategies. This project develops predicting marshbird models that cover the entire SALCCProducts
In progressModels of sea level rise impacts on marshbirds
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 12/2013
Final models of the potential impact of sea level rise on coastal ecosystems and marshbirds for the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic

Full Title
Priority aquatic research within SALCCOverview
Addressing several priority information needs relevant to aquatic conservation in 2010, including: 1) Relationships between hydrology/water use and ecological response, 2) Predictive models for species ranges, and 3) Priority species habitat relationship...Addressing several priority information needs relevant to aquatic conservation in 2010, including: 1) Relationships between hydrology/water use and ecological response, 2) Predictive models for species ranges, and 3) Priority species habitat relationshipWhy Selected
This project was supported by the SALCC in 2010 to address key aquatic research needsProducts
In progressChattahoochee fish occurrence models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 12/2011
Species-occurrence models for all fishes that occur commonly in Chattahoochee River system streamsRobust redhorse river segment assessment
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 12/2012
Geomorphic characterization of river segments used for spawning by Robust Redhorse and relevance to management and reintroduction strategies for Robust RedhorseSpecies-flow models for Apalachicola basin
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 08/2013
Species-flow alteration relations based on fine-resolution metapopulation models for fishes and mussels in the Apalachicola basin

Full Title
Monitoring waterbirds for effective managementOverview
Sustaining healthy populations of waterbirds that migrate long distances (waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds) is a major challenge for land managers. How does a manager know which species to manage for at a specific site? How important is a single site in the big picture? How can many managers ...Sustaining healthy populations of waterbirds that migrate long distances (waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds) is a major challenge for land managers. How does a manager know which species to manage for at a specific site? How important is a single site in the big picture? How can many managers coordinate their actions across the landscape so that the birds have the right amount and quality of habitat, at the right time, in the right places? These questions are difficult to answer without understanding how all the pieces fit together. Managers and scientists are working together in a new project to understand and optimally manage conservation lands along the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways to support continental populations of waterbirds. They are using adaptive management and modeling in an innovative way that incorporates their management expertise as well as new conservation planning and modeling tools. Learn more »Why Selected
This project seeks to understand how to sustain healthy populations of waterbirds that migrate long distances through linked decisions at local, regional, and flyway scalesProducts
Ready for download Sampling protocols for integrated waterbird monitoring in the Atlantic and Mississippi flyways Completed 08/2011. In progressDecision support models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2014
Decision support tools for waterbird management at local - regional - and flyway scales

Full Title
Hierarchical landscape models for endemic unionid musselsOverview
The specific objectives of this project are to a) assemble existing mussel, water quality, and landscape level (e.g., GIS) data bases; b) conduct expert interviews, targeted mussel surveys, and habitat assessments; c) develop an integrated model to predict species occupancy and to identify specific ...The specific objectives of this project are to a) assemble existing mussel, water quality, and landscape level (e.g., GIS) data bases; b) conduct expert interviews, targeted mussel surveys, and habitat assessments; c) develop an integrated model to predict species occupancy and to identify specific stream segments for conservation, restoration, and augmentation; and d) validate and refine the model for applicability to other species and geographic regions. Results of this project will be used to develop scientifically defensible estimates of the stream network needing conservation to support mussel recovery; identify specific factors limiting recovery of federally-listed mussels in a watershed manner; enable predictions and hypothesis testing associated with mussel occupancy and distribution associated with changes in habitat (degradation or restoration) at the instream, riparian, or watershed spatial scales; and refine sampling strategies for rare mussels.Why Selected
This project is a pilot study to assess techniques for incorporating expert opinion into conservation planning for imperiled aquatic speciesProducts
In progressMussel models and priority stream corridors
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2013
Data and information for predicting target Mussel species occupancy - probability of conservation success - and identification of high priority stream conservation corridorsPapers on models and priority stream corridors
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2013
Publication of 1-2 peer-reviewed scientific articles related to predictions of target Mussel species occupancy - probability of conservation success - and identification of high priority stream conservation corridors

Full Title
Modeling and Experimental Research to Guide Management of Community Adaptations in the South Atlantic Coastal Plain in Response to Climate Change and Sea Level RiseOverview
This project will create an inventory of community types (such as vegetation and terrestrial vertebrate species) in coastal plain habitats using GIS; assess and predict climate change and sea level rise impacts on species and communities; and engage in experimental evaluation of management strategie...This project will create an inventory of community types (such as vegetation and terrestrial vertebrate species) in coastal plain habitats using GIS; assess and predict climate change and sea level rise impacts on species and communities; and engage in experimental evaluation of management strategies for landscapes and species of concern for Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida.Why Selected
Experimental assessments of adaptation methods to respond to sea level rise are rare in the SALCC region. The project develops key models of coastal response and experimentally assesses potential adaptation strategies in regions throughout the SALCCProducts
In progressModels of coastal species
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2014
Spatial models of distribution of key coastal zone species in response to climate change and sea-level rise induced landscape changeResult of experimental manipulation
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 09/2014
Results of experimental manipulation of interior/upland habitats to assess potential use by species displaced due to climate-induced landscape change

Full Title
Multi-resolution assessment of potential climate change effects of aquatic resourcesOverview
Multi-scale modeling capabilities for forecasting climate change effects on stream fishes and mussels Learn more » ...Multi-scale modeling capabilities for forecasting climate change effects on stream fishes and mussels Learn more »Why Selected
This project was supported by the SALCC as a pilot to address how to model the effects of climate and land use change on aquatic species.Products
In progressCoarse resolution models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 10/2014
Coarse-resolution models for identifying where large climate change effects on fish and mussel species are most probable - and which species are most vulnerable in a single basinFine resolution models
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 10/2014
Fine-resolution models for simulating metapopulation responses to climate change - land use change - and alternative management actions - with identification of monitoring and research most needed to reduce management uncertainty in a single basin

Full Title
Designing sustainable landscapesOverview
This project will provide the habitat dynamics and priority bird species response models that will serve as the basis for a detailed regional assessment of priority species habitats. We will develop region-wide projections of urban growth and habitat dynamics models for priority species from 2001 to...This project will provide the habitat dynamics and priority bird species response models that will serve as the basis for a detailed regional assessment of priority species habitats. We will develop region-wide projections of urban growth and habitat dynamics models for priority species from 2001 to 2100. The work will be staged to provide urban growth and sea-level-rise models first and detailed habitat and species models later. Learn more »Why Selected
This project is developing key predictions of landscape change and bird response that are being integrated into a variety of SALCC resource response modelsProducts
Ready for download Future landscape predictions for the coastal plain
Bird response models for future landscape in coastal plain
Bird response models for future landscape in the piedmont
Urban growth and sea level rise models
Future landscape predictions for the piedmont
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 12/2013
Series of maps representing projected landscape condition based on urbanization - climate change - and vegetation dynamics models through 2100

Full Title
Patch and range dynamics of North American avian species in response to land use patterns and climatic change in Southeastern USOverview
This project predicts the effect of land use change and climate change on selected bird populations at the level of Bird Conservation Regions and states for the SEAFWA region. Learn more » ...This project predicts the effect of land use change and climate change on selected bird populations at the level of Bird Conservation Regions and states for the SEAFWA region. Learn more »Why Selected
Land use and climate change are both predicted to have large impact of future bird distributions. This project provides key information on range shifts that covers the terrestrial portion of the SALCCProducts
Ready for download New modeling method for BBS data
Modeling software
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 06/2013
Software to model the influence of land use change and climate change on range dynamics of birds adequately sampled by the BBSPredicts of past and future bird distributions
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 06/2012
Manuscript describing historical range dynamics of selected species and predictions for mid-term future

Full Title
EnviroAtlas of ecosystem servicesOverview
The EnviroAtlas is a web-based, easy-to-use, mapping application that allows users to view and analyze multiple ecosystem services in a specific region. The maps will provide users with an ability to assess data on: - Clean and adequate water for drinking and domestic use - Clean water for recreatio...The EnviroAtlas is a web-based, easy-to-use, mapping application that allows users to view and analyze multiple ecosystem services in a specific region. The maps will provide users with an ability to assess data on: - Clean and adequate water for drinking and domestic use - Clean water for recreation and aquatic habitat - Food fuel and fiber –Recreation cultural and aesthetic amenities - Climate regulation (e.g. carbon storage to off-set greenhouse gases) - Protection from hazardous weather - Habitat and the maintenance of biodiversity - Clean air Learn more »Why Selected
The national effort covers the entire SALCC and will provide much needed spatial information on a variety of ecosystem servicesProducts
In progressWeb portal
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 01/2013
First public release of web portal with annual updates thereafter

Full Title
Southern Forest FuturesOverview
The Southern Forest Futures Project will analyze and forecast potential changes in the forests of the U.S. South and implications for their sustainability. The overall goal of the SFFP is to inform management choices, policy discussions, and science programs with the clearest possible understanding ...The Southern Forest Futures Project will analyze and forecast potential changes in the forests of the U.S. South and implications for their sustainability. The overall goal of the SFFP is to inform management choices, policy discussions, and science programs with the clearest possible understanding of the potential long term implications of changes in southern forests. Learn more »Why Selected
This project predicts major changes in forest systems for the entire SALCCProducts
Ready for download Report of forest changes for the entire Southeast region Completed 05/2011. In progressRegional assessments and data
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 02/2013
Ecoregional assessments with in the Southeast and associated project data

Full Title
Developing Regionally Downscaled Probabilistic Climate Change ProjectionsOverview
Downscaled climate change projections of climate variables most relevant to range and habitat dynamics using ensemble predictions from an Earth Model of Intermediate Complexity and IPCC projections for future emission scenarios. ...Downscaled climate change projections of climate variables most relevant to range and habitat dynamics using ensemble predictions from an Earth Model of Intermediate Complexity and IPCC projections for future emission scenarios. Learn more »Why Selected
Provides downscaled climate change predictions for the entire U.S.Products
Ready for download Online access to climate predictions Completed 02/2012.

Full Title
Water Supply Stress Index Model (WaSSI)Overview
WaSSI can predict how climate, land cover, and human population change may impact water availability and carbon sequestration at the watershed level and across the lower 48 United States and Mexico. WaSSI users can select and adjust temperature, precipitation, land cover, and water use factors to si...WaSSI can predict how climate, land cover, and human population change may impact water availability and carbon sequestration at the watershed level and across the lower 48 United States and Mexico. WaSSI users can select and adjust temperature, precipitation, land cover, and water use factors to simulate an unlimited number of global change scenarios for user-determined timeframes through 2100. Simulation results are available as downloadable maps, graphs, and data files that users can apply to their unique information and project needs. Learn more »Why Selected
WaSSI provides consistent predictions of the impact of landscape changes on water and carbon across a large international regionProducts
Ready for download WaSSI users can select and adjust temperature - precipitation - land cover - and water use factors to simulate an unlimited number of global change scenarios for user-determined timeframes through 2100 Completed 07/2012.

Full Title
Social vulnerability and climate change in the Southeastern USOverview
Depicts county level predictions of social vulnerability to climate change based on research conducted by The Hazards and Vulnerability Research Institute, Department of Geography, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC. Learn more »Depicts county level predictions of social vulnerability to climate change based on research conducted by The Hazards and Vulnerability Research Institute, Department of Geography, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC. Learn more »Why Selected
This project covers the entire LCC and provides predictions of social vulnerability to climate change hazards like drought, flooding, sea level riseProducts
Ready for download Interactive map depicting social vulnerability to climate change Completed 10/2009.

Full Title
National assessment of fish habitat conditionOverview
As part of the National Fish Habitat Action Plan, a national assessment of fish habitat conditions for the rivers and estuaries of the coterminous 48 states As part of the National Fish Habitat Action Plan, a national assessment of fish habitat conditions for the rivers and estuaries of the coterminous 48 states Learn more »Why Selected
Provides a consistent assessment of fish habitat condition across the entire USProducts
Ready for download Assessment of fish habitat condition Completed 10/2010.

Full Title
A Comprehensive Assessment of Marine Mammal, Marine Turtle, and Seabird Abundance and Spatial Distribution in U.S. Waters of the western North Atlantic OceanOverview
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Minerals Management Service (MMS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the US Navy propose to develop models and associated tools to provide seasonal, spatially-explicit density estimates of marine mammals, turtles and seabirds in the ...The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Minerals Management Service (MMS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the US Navy propose to develop models and associated tools to provide seasonal, spatially-explicit density estimates of marine mammals, turtles and seabirds in the western North Atlantic Ocean Learn more »Why Selected
This large scale collaboration will provide consistent predictions of abundance and distribution for marine species in US waters across the entire AtlanticProducts
n progressMarine species seasonal abundance and density
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 07/2014
Estimates of seasonal population abundance and density within surveyed areasChanges in marine species distribution and abundance
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: 07/2014
Comparisons between contemporary and historical abundance and distribution

Full Title
Template for Assessing Climate Change Impacts and Management OptionsOverview
TACCIMO is a web-based tool developed by the USDA Forest Service that connects federal, state, and private land managers and planners to current climate change science. The overarching goal is to provide land and resource managers with the best available science they need to effectively and efficien...TACCIMO is a web-based tool developed by the USDA Forest Service that connects federal, state, and private land managers and planners to current climate change science. The overarching goal is to provide land and resource managers with the best available science they need to effectively and efficiently sustain forests and the services they provide under a changing climate . Learn more »Why Selected
This tools is regularly updated with the latest peer reviewed climate science information for the South Atlantic, Southeast US, and the entire nation.Products
Ready for download A searchable repository of climate change effects and management options derived from peer reviewed literature Completed 12/2012. A forest plan explorer that enables review and keyword filtering of forest plan components Completed 12/2012. A geospatial mapping application that enables the review of climate data Completed 12/2012.

Full Title
National assessment of fish habitat, land use, and climateContact
N/AOverview
National, regional, and local assessment connecting climate and land use change to future conditions of fish habitat. Supported by NFHAP. Learn more » ...National, regional, and local assessment connecting climate and land use change to future conditions of fish habitat. Supported by NFHAP. Learn more »Why Selected
The models under development by NFHAP may be particularly useful in predicting the impact of climate, land use change, and potential conservation strategies on fish communities. Previous model versions are already incorporated in the SALCC funded Optimal Conservation Strategies projectProducts
In progressAssessment of future change of fish communities
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: UNDEFINED/UNDEFINED
National assessment of how fish communities will respond to climate and land use change