Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID OK_2024_Castilla

Next-Generation Monitoring: Satellite Remote Sensing and eDNA Integration for the Early Detection and Management of Aquatic Invasive Plants in the Upper Mississippi Basin

Institute: Oklahoma
USGS Grant Number:
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2024-09-01 End Date: 2027-08-31
Total Federal Funds: $344,527 Total Non-Federal Funds: $344,565

Principal Investigators: Antonio R. Castilla

Project Summary: Monitoring and managing aquatic invasive plant species in the upper Mississippi River basin requires effective tools. This research merges remote sensing with environmental DNA (eDNA) to provide a cost-effective solution for early detection and management. Focusing on three high-priority plant species identified by the U.S. Geological Survey, the study aims to develop remote sensing applications to guide eDNA sampling efforts. Using a multiscale strategy, including experimental work and field surveys, the research evaluates when remote sensing is more effective than eDNA monitoring. Our findings will contribute to develop a comprehensive monitoring protocol for entire catchments, optimizing large-scale surveys over time and reducing associated costs.