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HYDROLOGIC INITIATIVE IN COASTAL MISSISSIPPI AND ALABAMA
Impact/Purpose:
The purpose of this project is to identify the contributions of nearby shallow ground and surface waters originating within the watershed on the Grand Bay critical habitats. After identifying the impacts of water quality and altered hydrology, a comprehensive conservation strategy can be developed for the area. The major components of this project are to : 1) Broaden the knowledge base/understanding of coastal hydrology in uplands and wetlands near Grand Bay; 2) Initiate planning for a wetland restoration construction project along the CSX railroad at the MS/AL state line; and 3) Design and initiate hydrologic monitoring in conjunction with the restoration project.
Description:
The Nature Conservancy has completed a comprehensive site conservation plan at Grand Bay, Alabama. The primary stressors impacting the coastal habitats and significant conservation targets at Grand Bay include: habitat loss, fire suppression, exotic species, alteration of hydrology and water quality degradation. Although the impacts of water quality and altered hydrology are evident across the coastal area, specific data at Grand Bay is lacking. The Nature Conservancy's project proposal seeks to broaden the understanding of coastal hydrology in upland and wetland areas of Grand Bay and to initiate planning for a wetland restoration construction project along the CSX railroad at the MS/AL state line. In conjunction with the restoration project, the TNC proposes to design and initiate a hydrologic monitoring program. In order for the TNC and its partners to expand conservation initiatives at Grand Bay, additional information needs to be compiled to gain a broader understanding of the complex nature of water movement in the Grand Bay area.