Summary

Description

The U.S. Geological Survey has been carrying out integrated ecological studies at the Lisbon Bottom Unit of the Big Muddy Fish and Wildlife Refuge since 1996. This report outlines progress achieved during fiscal year 1999. The general objective of integrated ecological research at Lisbon Bottom is to quantify ecological responses to dynamic habitat changes as the area reconnects to the river. Understanding of hydrologic pathways requires evaluations over seasonal to multiannual time periods. The area of focus is the Lisbon Bottom unit and the contigous areas of channel and valley bottom that can be included to define a reachscale corridor, approximately river mile RM 213 to RM 219. The project objectives are; 1 Quantify habitat dynamics at Lisbon Bottom due to geomorphologic changes in the chute, channel, and flood plain, 2 Quantify habitat dynamics in the chute and channel resulting from hydrologic variation and related to reservoir releases, and 3 Interpret results to aid management and rehabilitation project design.