Project Overview

Full Title
Spatially-explicit Quantification of Water Quantity, Timing and Distribution on Southeast Region National Wildlife Refuges

Location
 Southeastern United States

Cooperating Agencies
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Project Chief
Loren Wehmeyer

Period of Project
2008-2010

Science Topic:
Aquatic Habitat Restoration
Support of Federal and State Programs

USGS IN YOUR STATE

USGS Water Science Centers are located in each state.

Accounting for Water Needs of Southeast Region National Wildlife Refuges

Introduction

J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Credit: Susan White, USFWS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) owns and provides stewardship for 102 National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs) in the southeastern United States. Historically, little emphasis has been given to characterization of southeastern NWR hydrologic environments because of plentiful water supply and lack of perceived stress on refuge aquatic resources. However, recent severe droughts, floods, and increased competition for limited water resources have changed this paradigm. Understanding refuge water needs is critical for the USFWS to negotiate for water resources in an era of increasing demand.