Technical Assistance for an Ecological Evaluation of the Southwest Florida Feasibility Study

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to provide personnel support for development of an ecologically sound comprehensive regional plan for water resources in Southwest Florida. This project will: 1) Assist in development and documentation of conceptual models of coastal ecosystems in Southwest Florida, 2) Assist in the establishment of ecological performance measures for the coastal ecosystems in Southwest Florida, 3) Develop ecological forecasting models used to evaluate alternatives, 4) Apply ecological forecasting models and begin alternative assessment using these models, and 5) Prepare final report and provide instruction to South Florida Water Management District and United States Army Core of Engineers staff in use of models.