Watershed Ecology
Although we know that the ecology of a river is dependent on the character and condition of its watershed, many of the ways watersheds and rivers function together are not well understood. Our knowledge of pristine rivers is limited because most rivers and their watersheds have been altered by human activity. As a result, it can be difficult to set benchmarks for maintenance or restoration of watershed health. In spite of these uncertainties, management decisions and development initiatives proceed, sometimes in ways that are not sustainable or appropriate.
How We Can Help
The connectivity of rivers with their surrounding landscapes, including upland forests, lakes, estuaries, and marine systems, is at the heart of 10,000 Years Institute's research interests. We investigate both the natural processes of watersheds and the ways that human activities alter these processes. 10,000 Years Institute is involved in the cutting edge work needed to address key uncertainties relevant to management of endangered ecosystems.
Examples of Current Work:
Research and analysis on the ecology, prevention, and management of invasive species.
Invasive species management protocols
Many more to come…
Data mining for historical information and developing a monitoring and data management system for Washington's Olympic Peninsula.
Investigating the impact of climate change and glacial sediment release on invasive plants and riverine biogeomorphology.
Examples of Previous Work:
Researching the role of large wood in sediment dynamics of headwater streams that will help clarify how headwaters function to maintain long term habitat-forming processes.
Investigating the role of large wood in river morphology and channel change, and helping improve sustainability of development adjacent to rivers by creating a working definition of channel migration zones in the state of Washington.