AUTHORS: Natalie C. Liberati, Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University; Alison A. Coulter, Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University; Benjamin J. Schall, South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks; Tanner Davis, South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks; Steven R. Chipps, U.S. Geological Survey, South Dakota Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit; David P. Coulter, Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University
ABSTRACT: The Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) of the northern Great Plains is characterized by extreme weather, fluctuating between droughts and floods. Flooding within this region periodically connects rivers, wetlands, and lakes allowing for the movement of native and invasive species throughout the landscape. These floods also increase resource availability, permitting these species to grow in abundance. Invasive carp, such as silver and bighead carp, are currently present in a few rivers within the PPR and have the potential to spread to other locations due to flood-induced habitat connectivity, posing a threat to native species in the region. Using invasive carp as a case study, we will use Landsat observations of surface water (Dynamic Surface Water Extent) to identify where habitat connections are formed during flooding events between invaded rivers and uninvaded waterbodies. We will be able to further evaluate the relative risk posed by flooding by quantifying the surface area, water velocity, and water depth of these habitat connections. In addition, we will examine whether there has been an increasing frequency of connectivity among waterbodies through time. This technique will be able to be applied to other watersheds within or outside of the PPR. Recognizing where high-risk connections are located will help inform managers where to focus efforts for monitoring and deterring movements into uninvaded waters.
