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

生态系统的动态地貌后果：实验方法本研究使用化石溪，亚利桑那州作为一个模型系统，研究如何恢复流量和删除非本地鱼类影响的物理和生物结构的流。 在上个世纪，大部分水从化石溪转移到水力发电。 2005年，作为河流恢复计划的一部分，水被归还，该计划包括清除非本地鱼类。化石溪是修复的目标，因为它保留了本地鱼类，并有独特的水坝创造陡峭的瀑布和深池。 这项研究将测试流量的增加如何影响河流的形成，河流的生产力和生物多样性。地貌学和生态学的结合将促进我们对构建河流生态系统中物理和生物过程相互作用的理解。化石溪将通过测试是否达到恢复目标来作为河流恢复的国家案例研究。 化石溪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学习进行基础和应用研究。该项目将培养新一代的学生，他们善于向管理人员和公众传播他们的科学。 公共宣传包括一个公共广播公司的视频，一篇文章在科学美国人和宣传材料的游客化石溪。这些材料将共同教育公众科学在河流恢复中的重要性。

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.