Collaborative research: Ecosystem Consequences of Dynamic Geomorphology: An Experimental Approach

动态地貌学对生态系统的影响：一种实验方法本研究以亚利桑那州的Fossil Creek为模型系统，研究水流的恢复和非本地鱼类的清除如何影响溪流的物理和生物结构。上个世纪，化石溪的大部分水都被用于水力发电。2005年，作为河流恢复计划的一部分，该计划包括清除非本地鱼类。化石溪之所以成为修复的目标，是因为它保留了本地鱼类，并且拥有独特的石灰华水坝，形成了陡峭的瀑布和深水池。本研究将测试流量增加如何影响石灰华的形成、河流生产力和生物多样性。地貌学和生态学的整合将促进我们对构建河流生态系统的物理和生物过程相互作用的理解。Fossil Creek将通过测试恢复目标是否达到，作为河流恢复的全国案例研究。Fossil Creek是一个活生生的实验室，数百名高中生、本科生和研究生正在这里学习进行基础和应用研究。这个项目将培养新一代的学生，使他们能够将自己的科学知识传达给管理者和公众。公众宣传包括一段美国公共广播公司的视频，一篇发表在《科学美国人》上的文章，以及为参观化石溪的游客提供的宣传材料。这些材料一起将教育公众关于科学在河流修复中的重要性。

Ecosystem Consequences Of Dynamic Geomorphology: An Experimental ApproachThis study uses Fossil Creek, Arizona as a model system for studying how restoration of flow and removal of non-native fish affects the physical and biological structure of streams. For the last century the majority of water was diverted from Fossil Creek for hydropower production. Water was returned in 2005 as part of a river restoration program that included removing non-native fish. Fossil Creek was targeted for restoration because it retains native fish and has unique travertine dams creating steep waterfalls and deep pools. This study will test how increased flow affects travertine formation, river productivity and biodiversity. The integration of geomorphology and ecology will advance our understanding of the interplay of physical and biological process in structuring stream ecosystems.Fossil Creek will serve as a national case study in river restoration by testing whether restoration goals are met. Fossil Creek is a living laboratory where hundreds of high school, undergraduate and graduate students are learning to conduct basic and applied research. This project will train a new generation of students skilled at communicating their science to managers and the public. Public outreach includes a PBS video, an article in Scientific American and outreach materials for visitors to Fossil Creek. Together these materials will educate the public about the importance of science in river restoration.