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Effects of nonindigenous invasive species on water quality and quantity

Informally Refereed

Abstract

Physical and biological disruptions of aquatic systems caused by invasive species alter water quantity and water quality. Recent evidence suggests that water is a vector for the spread of Sudden Oak Death disease and Port-Orfordcedar root disease. Since the 1990s, the public has become increasingly aware of the presence of invasive species in the Nation’s waters. Media reports about Asian carp, zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), golden algae (Prynmesium parvum), cyanobacteria (Anabaena sp., Aphanizomenon sp., and Microcystis sp.), and New Zealand mud snail have raised public awareness about the economic and ecological costs of invasive species. Along with other Federal agencies, States, and communities, Forest Service R&D must work to fund the research needed to better understand the linkages of land and water as venues for ecosystem effects of invasive species biology. This paper will identify desired resource outcomes, address management strategies and systems needed to achieve the outcomes, discuss potential effects on riparian systems and water resources, and identify research and actions needed to achieve the desired outcomes.

Parent Publication

Keywords

invasive species, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service Research and Development Invasive Species Strategic Program Area (SPA)

Citation

McCormick, Frank H.; Contreras, Glen C.; Johnson, Sherri L. 2010. Effects of nonindigenous invasive species on water quality and quantity. In: Dix, Mary Ellen; Britton, Kerry, editors. A dynamic invasive species research vision: Opportunities and priorities 2009-29. Gen. Tech. Rep. WO-79/83. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Research and Development: 111-120.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/35873