4.5 River Basins
Studies should include identifcation of population trends, as well as assessment of con- servation or development activities. Tese eforts will inform species and habitat manage- ment decisions. Long-term monitoring sites need to be identifed and monitoring protocols developed for all priority species. Monitoring plans should be coordinated with other exist- ing monitoring programs where feasible. Monitor populations of endemic fshes and mus- sels occurring in Lake Waccamaw to assess the efect of land use changes and practices in the surrounding watershed and the introduction of nonnative plants and animals. Research. Research topics that facilitate appropriate conservation actions include habitat use and preferences, reproductive behavior, fecundity, population dynamics and genetics, feeding, competition, and food web dynamics. Increased understanding of life histories and status helps determine the vulnerability of priority species to further imperilment, in addition to identifying possibilities for improved management and conservation. Studies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration. Formal descriptions for known or putative undescribed species and investigations aimed at resolving taxonomic status are needed.
• Support species descriptions for undescribed taxa (e.g., Broadtail Madtom).
• Determine vulnerability of species across all taxa groups to emerging threats such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and other compounds that are present in many of the waterways of the Lumber River Basin.
• Identify ways to eradicate or reduce the impacts of nonnative species in Lake Waccamaw.
In addition to the SGCN species found in the basin (see Table 4.66), a list of knowledge-gap priority species is provided in Table 4.67. Management Practices Management practices that reduce impacts and work synergis- tically with other conservation actions are needed to enhance the resilience of natural resources. General needs include preserving biodiversity, protecting native populations and their habitats, and improving degraded habitats. In addition, education about, and prevention of the introduction and spread of exotic or invasive species are vital. Specifc issues that need to be addressed in this basin include secondary and cumulative impacts upon water quality, bufer ordinances, water supply watershed protection, and protection of headwaters.
• Promote programs to upgrade/increase compliance at wastewater treatment facilities and CAFOs.
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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