UNF IERE conducting aquatic barrier study supported by National Fish and Wildlife grant

The University of North Florida Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE) is collaborating with the Northeast Florida Regional Council and other partners on a study that will assess aquatic connectivity in Northeast Florida.

The project is funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Additional partner organizations include The Pew Charitable Trusts, St. Johns River Water Management District, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, North Florida Land Trust, and Jacksonville University.

Structures installed at road-stream crossings, such as culverts and bridges, can fragment river systems and alter their natural flow, creating flooding issues and habitat loss for fish and wildlife. This study will fill important data gaps about the performance and impact of these structures in Northeast Florida.

"Northeast Florida is growing rapidly, and that growth puts pressure on the very systems that protect us from flooding," said Andrew Prokopiak, senior resiliency planner for the Northeast Florida Regional Council. "Partnering on a study of this scale gives the region the evidence base needed for our counties and municipalities to make infrastructure and policy decisions that work for people and wildlife alike."

Beginning this month, UNF and other research partners will collect data to evaluate aquatic organism passage, floodwater drainage, and infrastructure conditions at road-stream crossings on three major rivers across 12 Florida counties. UNF faculty and student researchers will assess more than 2,300 sites with a standardized protocol that is being used across the country to understand aquatic barriers.

"We are happy to participate in this project that allows UNF students to conduct impactful field research that supports coastal resilience and makes a difference in our community," said Dr. Erin Largo-Wight, IERE director and professor.

Four UNF student research assistants will work alongside IERE faculty and staff including Dr. Jessica Barnes, incoming IERE visiting assistant professor and lead faculty scientist, and Sydney Barrett, IERE research associate and project coordinator. The team is currently conducting training to collect field data.

The goal of the project is to improve aquatic connectivity and strengthen coastal resilience. Results will inform regional planning for future barrier removal projects, which will benefit a variety of fish and wildlife species, contribute to salt marsh restoration, and reduce flood hazards for coastal communities.