Major Goals and Objectives

• Develop a method to define in stream hydraulic habitat (fluvial habitat unit – FHU)
• Map low-flow and high stage floodplain units to determine spatial
  distribution and connectivity
• Use dynamic mapping to 1) relate low flow stage FHUs with Best Management Practices (BMPs) and channel geomorphology to develop structure specific ecological performance measures based on aquatic community needs; 2) determine the availability of high-stage refuge habitat at a watershed scale; and 3) complete a watershed specific ecosystem potential analysis that considers organism sources, system connectivity, and both low and high stage habitat to assess system capacity for the development of sustainable aquatic ecosystems
• Evaluate research findings to provide guidance for BMP design and placement to achieve watershed management goals established by local agencies and stakeholders along Southern Lake Michigan.