Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2010DE183B

Assessment of Changes in Invertebrate Populations Resulting from Wetland Restoration

Institute: Delaware
Year Established: 2010 Start Date: 2010-06-01 End Date: 2011-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $1,500 Total Non-Federal Funds: $3,000

Principal Investigators: Douglas Tallamy, Katie Yost

Abstract: The monitoring of physical characteristics along with biological data provide valuable insight into the effectiveness and functioning of wetland restorations as sustainable ecosystems. The restoration of a wetland near the University of Delaware campus is planned for this spring. Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) and other non-native plant species will be removed and the water will be channeled. Research is needed to study the effect this wetland restoration has on the aquatic biodiversity in the area. The objectives of the project are to study how the restoration of the wetland affects the aquatic biodiversity. The species and abundance of invertebrates will be monitored before, during, and after the restoration. This study will assess the impact of removing non-native plants on water quality as indicated by changes in the invertebrate community.