• Develop a predictive model of Asian carp consumption and growth in the Great Lakes using a bioenergetics approach
• Test model predictions with growth and consumption experiments in mesocosms
• Predict where in the Great Lakes Asian carp are likely to survive by feeding on plankton
• Provide initial estimates of the potential impact of Asian carp on Great Lake plankton communities

• Document the locations and diets of the invasive, PontoCaspian colonial hydroid, Cordylophora caspia in southern Lake Michigan
• Assess the feeding habits of C. caspia
• Determine whether the distribution of C. caspia is related to the presence of Dreissena polymorpha or D. bugensis as substrates

The goal of this project is to develop a web-based model that calculates the expected change in water demand with development and relates it to expected availability.

• To provide information on past low lake levels of Lake Michigan, to better
  understand why there have been lower lake levels in the past, and to better predict and thus prepare for future low lake levels

• Estimate the recreational value of single-day visits to two nature centers within Metropolitan Chicago

• 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.