Trends in Benthic Macroinvertebrate and Water Quality Across Lakes and Streams in the North Coast and Cascades Network

Project ID: P23AC02061

Federal Agency: National Park Service

Partner Institution: Western Washington University

Fiscal Year: 2023

Initial Funding: $87,680

Total Funding: $87,680

Project Type: Research

Principal Investigator: Strecker, Angela

Agreement Technical Representative: Lofgren, Rebecca

Abstract: This project will generate a better understanding of the ecological condition and trends of many high elevation mountain lakes, lakes and streams in the Pacific Northwest using BMI as indicators. The project leverages the use of an extensive long-term monitoring data set to produce results for improved management of these significant mountain lake systems for fisheries and recreational purposes, and to provide insights on environmental changes. The project provides educational and employment opportunities for these students to analyze large water quality and BMI data sets, gain experience in conservation management issues and monitoring methodologies, and data reporting. Project results will be available to the public and to the scientific community.