4.5 River Basins
4.5.3.3 Recommendations While much progress has been made toward understanding basic distribution of many priority species, especially fshes, information is still lacking on the distribution of some species, and population strength and trend data are rare. Tese gaps are especially pro- nounced among mollusks and crustaceans. While considerable knowledge gaps exist for freshwater mussels, they are even greater for snails and pea clams. Likewise, information vital for efective management of crayfsh is insufcient and such information for micro- crustaceans (e.g., water feas, seed shrimp, scuds) is practically nonexistent. Performing extensive feld surveys and collecting voucher specimens are important steps in developing conservation measures for aquatic species. Much of the aquatic insect data tracked by the NC Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) is provided by the Biological Monitoring group of the NC Division of Water Resources (for- merly as Division of Water Quality). However, there is no clear jurisdiction over most of these taxa, and there is a scarcity of biologists focused on these groups. Knowledge levels and data availability for insects, terrestrial gastropods, and arachnids are the lowest of any animal groups in the state. Tese taxa are an integral part of the ecosystems they share with other invertebrate and vertebrate species. Opportunities to expand our knowledge and understanding of these groups should be taken when possible, and the establishment of habitat-based projects that are mutually benefcial to these groups and to higher taxa should be a focus. Te following recommendations should be considered appropriate to implement statewide and where appropriate in all river basins. Surveys. General surveys are needed to complete primary distributional status for SGCN and other priority species.
• Complete distribution and status surveys for aquatic snails, crayfsh, mussels, fsh, and nonnative species.
• Coordinate sampling with other resource management groups.
Monitoring. Long-term monitoring is critical to assessing species and ecosystem health over time and gauging the resilience of organisms to continued impacts to state waters. Studies should include identifcation of population trends, as well as assessment of impacts from conservation or development activities. Tese eforts will inform species and habitat management decisions. Long-term monitoring sites need to be identifed and monitoring protocols developed for all priority species. Monitoring plans should be coordinated with other existing monitoring programs where feasible.
502
2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online