BIO-WEST Riffle Beetle Habitat Connectivity Study

Transcription

PROPOSAL - # 132-14-HCP
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Habitat
Connectivity Study
1
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..........................................................................................................3
INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................5
POTENTIAL PACKAGES ................................................................................................................10
DEGREE OF COMPLIANCE ...........................................................................................................10
PROPOSAL PRICING (Under separate cover) ................................................................................10
Attachment A1....................................................................................................................................11
Attachment A3 ...................................................................................................................................13
SCOPE OF WORK ............................................................................................................................................ 15
PROPOSED SCOPE ALTERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 21
QUALIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................................22
PROJECT TEAM ...................................................................................................................................................... 22
KEY PERSONNEL .................................................................................................................................................. 23
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE .................................................................................................................................. 26
WORK SCHEDULE ...................................................................................................................38
REFERENCES ..............................................................................................................................38
Attachment B1 ............................................................................................................................................................ 39
Attachment B2 ............................................................................................................................................................ 40
Attachment B3 ............................................................................................................................................................ 41
RESUMES .......................................................................................................................................42
2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As is evident in the attached proposal, BIO-WEST, Inc. has assembled a project team with extensive
experience and technical expertise in conducting applied research with the endangered species and
their habitats of the Comal and San Marcos Springs/River ecosystems. To assist with this project,
BIO-WEST has enlisted the assistance of Dr. Weston Nowlin of Texas State University, Dr. Robert
Doyle of Baylor University, and the invertebrate specialists at Zara Environmental. Factors that set
the BIO-WEST study team apart from the competition include:
 BIO-WEST scientists and collaborators have been conducting continuous monitoring and
Applied Research related to the Comal and San Marcos endangered species and springs
habitat for over 14 years.
o We are currently conducting four separate EARIP HCP Applied Research efforts in 2014
(Fountain darter Movement, Fecundity, and Predation as well as a low-flow response
study for the Comal Springs riffle beetle) that was conducted after the completion of four
separate Comal Springs riffle beetle studies in 2013 (Field vs. Lab, Vegetation Tolerance,
Food Source, and pH drift). All eight




have been designed based on the intent of the HCP;
have been presented and approved by the current HCP science team;
will be completed on time and on budget; and
will lead to direct use for parameterization in the HCP Ecological model or
directly address critical HCP Phase II questions.
o Additionally, Dr. Nowlin is conducting the Comal Spring riffle beetle plastron study as
part of 2014 HCP Applied Research funding.
o BIO-WEST has also conducted additional Applied Research efforts through the EAA
Variable Flow Study that were directly related to endangered species (fountain darter,
Comal Spring riffle beetle, and Texas wild-rice). These efforts have been extremely
valuable in shaping the HCP and informing the need for this additional HCP related
research.
 BIO-WEST thoroughly understands the Intent of the HCP as well as the long-term biological
goals and underlying flow management regime. Many assumptions were made regarding the
development of the flow regimes for the Comal and San Marcos rivers that were incorporated
into the final HCP. The uncertainty embedded in such assumptions adds to the importance of
the applied research and restoration activities proposed during Phase I of the HCP. This
understanding is critical to the design of applied research efforts specific to the HCP so that it
can be used to assist with the tough Phase II decisions that are rapidly approaching.
 BIO-WEST is the prime contractor on the HCP Ecological Modeling team. As such, BIOWEST thoroughly understands the direction and complexities of that critical modeling effort
and is well positioned to design studies that will be directly useful to that modeling effort.
Applied research efforts that are not designed with the end goal being incorporation into the
Ecological Model or directly addressing Phase II decisions will likely end up being
interesting academic exercises with little EARIP HCP utility.
3
On a personal level:
 Mr. Ed Oborny (BIO-WEST) has spent the majority of his career working with aquatic plants
and animals of the Comal and San Marcos ecosystems. He understands these systems but
more importantly, truly enjoys sharing this information with collaborating scientists, Board
of Directors, area school children and teachers, science teams, etc… Plus, he has a track
record of well over a decade for the Authority of getting projects done on time and on
budget.
 Mr. Randy Gibson (Senior Macroinvertebrate Biologist at BIO-WEST) is the foremost expert
on the Comal Springs riffle beetle and has been conducting bio-monitoring and
experimentation through BIO-WEST on this species for well over a decade.
 Dr. Weston Nowlin (Associate Professor – Texas State University) is an expert at assessing
how biotic and abiotic factors affect the abundance, distribution, and diversity of organisms
in ecosystems.
 Dr. Robert Doyle (Director of the Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research at
Baylor University) is the foremost expert with aquatic vegetation specific to the Comal and
San Marcos rivers. Dr. Doyle has also be Co-Principal investigator on three of the eight
applied research studies conducted by the BIO-WEST team to date and served in a QA/QC
role on the remaining five.
 Unparalleled scientific integrity. Dr. Doyle, Mr. Oborny and Dr. Jean Krecja (Zara) are
active members of the Southern Edwards Aquifer Species Recovery Team.
Finally, the BIO-WEST project team has all the necessary federal and state endangered species permits
to begin this work immediately upon award.
We are pleased to submit this proposal to the Authority for consideration. It will become evident as you
explore this proposal that project team personnel have extensive experience and expertise in applied
research and the ecology of the Comal and San Marcos river systems. Examples of relevant experience
are included along with a scope of work for 2015 activities. Information on key team members is
included and costs are detailed by task under separate cover.
4
INTRODUCTION
Section 6.3.4 of the Habitat Conservation Plan lays out the path forward for answering key questions
and filling in data gaps to test Phase I assumptions and ultimately assist with Phase II decisions. The
focus in 2013 was on addressing several key questions surrounding physical habitat and food source
responses, both related to the fountain darter. In 2014, additional Tier A and Tier B applied research
was conducted focused on the fountain darter and Comal Springs riffle beetle. A wealth of valuable
information has been acquired over the first two years and the third round (2015) of applied research
targets specific inputs to the HCP ecological model and filling critical data gaps in supporting Phase II
decisions.
Being that eight individual applied research efforts are being proposed for 2015, we feel it is important
upfront that the reviewers understand our thought process for how we selected the studies for proposal
and how we determined the level of work and budget (under separate cover) needed to address the key
questions proposed in the RFPs. Our assessment of the priority of the proposed 2015 Applied Research
efforts was based on their ability to 1) directly answer key questions critical to support Phase II
decisions and 2) support inputs and/or testing of the HCP ecological model that will in turn assist in
answering Phase II questions. In addition, we also felt a third key factor was whether their underlying
hypothesis is best controlled by a change in the flow regime and not other management activities. To
illustrate our thoughts, we have included Table 1 below.
No surface flow this summer at the headwaters of Spring Run 1 of the Comal System.
5
TABLE 1 – PROJECT TEAM CRITERIA
Study
Rank
Critical Data Gap for
Phase II decision
making
Use in existing HCP
Ecological Model(s)
Dependent on
Flow regime
YES - Aquatic Vegetation
response (SAV model) and
dissolved oxygen (water
quality submodel)
YES
Algae Dynamics
#134-14-HCP
1
Within context of
Ecological model
Riffle Beetle
Connectivity
#132-14-HCP
2
CRITICAL to
understanding of impacts
at Comal System
Undetermined - At present,
there is not a CSRB model in
development
YES
Ludwigia
interference
#137-14-HCP
3
Within context of
Ecological model
YES - Aquatic Vegetation
Response (SAV model)
YES
Texas Wild-rice
suspended
sediment
#133-14-HCP
4
Within context of
Ecological model and
important relative to
potential recreational
Impacts
YES – Texas wild-rice growth
(SAV model) and recreation
impacts (impacts assessment)
Not necessarily –
May be best
controlled by
restricting
recreation
Food Source
Refinement
#130-14-HCP
5
Within context of
Ecological model
YES – refinement of model
inputs for food source
YES
6
Important relative to
potential recreational
Impacts
Undetermined at this time
Not necessarily –
May be best
controlled by
restricting
recreation
7
Important - But likely
more applicable for
refugia research
YES
To be determined during 2015
Modeling activities – best
suited for 2016 Applied
Research
YES
Fountain Darter
Turbidity
#131-14-HCP
Fountain Darter
Compensatory
#135-14-HCP
Aquatic
Vegetation Shear
Stress study
#136-14-HCP
8
In our opinion, simply dividing the $450k up equally and having eight $50k studies will only answer a
few questions in total and leave the more critical questions incomplete and unanswered. With that said,
we are sure that the Authority will receive proposals with a wide range of costs for each of these studies
including several low-ball offers from firms who do not fully understand the HCP intent or Phase II
decisions that have to be made. We also fear the tendency of some bidders will be to simply propose
“academic” exercises. Based on our professional judgment from working in both systems for a long
time, what we have learned from 2013 and 2014 HCP sponsored applied research, and our
understanding of the HCP intent and ecological modeling activities, we offer the following as our
interpretation of how we determined the resources necessary to accomplish the goals for these studies.
6
All eight studies are well thought-through and meet the HCP intent to enhance our ecological
understanding of system processes. However, we feel studies 1 through 3 below are critically important
because of the time frame of the HCP Phase I / Phase II and ecological modeling activities. As such, our
first focus was to determine the resources necessary to complete these studies in 2015. A summary of
our rationale is as follows:
1) Algae dynamics and dissolved oxygen depletion (#134) – Why? During low-flow conditions
bryophytes die off, aquatic macrophytes are coated with algae and start to decay, and, as we
witnessed for the first time this past summer - even the algae dies off under extreme conditions.
Submerged aquatic vegetation (bryophytes, rooted macrophytes, and even algae) serve as fountain
darter habitat and are direct parameters being assessed within the ecological model. Further
understanding the algal survival and decay dynamics during extended periods of low flow will greatly
enhance the ability to predict survival of the fountain darter in the existing HCP ecological model. In
addition, dissolved oxygen (DO) in Landa Lake via 2013 and 2014 summer low-flow monitoring
shows periods of DO < 2.0 mg/L. Firing up the aerator system in Landa Lake resulted in less than a 1
mg/L increase in dissolved oxygen. Dissolved oxygen is a critical parameter within the ecological
model and understanding the dynamics at low flow will greatly enhance the ability to predict survival
of the fountain darter.
2) Riffle Beetle Connectivity (#132) – Why? We know a considerable amount about the riffle beetle
distribution and are gaining information on the population size and low-flow effects during 2014.
However, very little is known on the surface / subsurface interactions and how that affects the
population and/or distribution of beetles. Applied research in 2013 and 2014 demonstrated that
aquatic vegetation as fountain darter habitat and fountain darters themselves are quite tolerant
suggesting that the Comal Springs riffle beetle may in fact be more of a sentinel species than the
fountain darter. The present HCP flow regime exhibits periods of extended drying of the spring runs,
western shoreline and spring island areas (these areas are the presumed strong hold for the riffle
beetle in the Comal System). Although the HCP flow regime is not projected as severe on the
minimum end as experienced in the drought of record (DOR), these projected HCP extended periods
of < 100 cfs are well beyond what was observed in the DOR. With the Comal Springs riffle beetle
likely shifting to be the sentinel species for the Comal system, understanding their tolerance and
surface/subsurface interactions is vital to making Phase II decisions.
3) Ludwigia interference study (#137) – Why? Since the fountain darter is documented as having
higher densities in native versus non-native vegetation, the importance of native vegetation
restoration is magnified. A key question is how to code native vegetation competition with nonnative vegetation within the HCP ecological model following disturbance events (scour, mitigation
projects, recreation, etc.). How this is coded in the ecological model will play a vital role in model
output pertaining to the preservation or loss of quality fountain darter habitat in both the Comal and
San Marcos systems over time. Providing input data gathered through actual studies versus opinion
or literature for other species is mandatory to more accurately portray these aquatic vegetation
responses. This study will also assist with assessing the level of aquatic gardening that is required for
successful native vegetation restoration.
Based on our assessment, it will be evident in our Scopes and budgets (separate cover) that the activities
planned and resources requested for 1 and 2 exceed an equal $50k distribution of funding of all eight
studies, while # 3 is actually less. However, even with our proposals, considerable monies are still
available to embark on additional studies, thus we continue.
7
We feel studies 4, 5 and 6 (Table 1 - #133, #130 and #131) provide the next level of importance as they
meet the HCP intent for ecological understanding, will serve as potential inputs to the Ecological Model,
and are either dependent on the flow regime or address the key aspect of recreation.
4) Texas wild-rice suspended sediment (#133) – Why? Relative to the HCP Ecological model, the
ability to understand Texas wild-rice growth is of less importance because of the incredible success of
the restoration activities and response to lower flow conditions. There is over 6,000 m2 of Texas
wild-rice in the system this year after repeated low-flow events in 2006, 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2014.
However, this study is very important relative to examining recreational impacts to the system. With
that said, it is not entirely flow-dependent as controlling recreation may in fact be a better way of
decreasing these impacts than simply allowing for more flow.
5) Food source refinement (#130) - Why? Understanding the dynamics and thresholds of fountain
darter food sources is essential to the development of a more accurate representation of impacts to the
fountain darter in the ecological model. Based on the 2013 laboratory and pond food source study
results, two additional applied research topics were proposed to further refine ecological model
parameters. The first is to evaluate the temperature range between 28 °C and 34 °C to more accurately
determine a threshold temperature for amphipods. This is important in that, at 28 °C, fountain darters
can exist just fine and reproduce to a limited degree, but near 34 °C their reproduction shuts off and
survival becomes tenuous. If food really should become limiting at 29 °C rather than 33.5 °C, there is
the potential for this parameter to be extremely important. However, if the threshold is truly more
near 34 °C, then direct temperature impacts to fountain darters would likely trump any food source
response in the ecological model. The second proposed investigation is to evaluate whether
Vallisneria or Ludwigia provide similar benefits to what was experienced with Riccia. The reason for
this investigation is that the bryophytes are likely the first plant species to be eliminated from the
system during low flows while Vallisneria and Ludwigia should persist.
6) Fountain darter Turbidity (#131) – Why? Turbidity affects light and light affects plants and
therefore, it seems turbidity’s effect on fountain darter habitat might be considered the foremost
question. That is a significant question but fortunately one that is answered in detail in the literature
and currently being incorporated into the submerged aquatic vegetation module of the HCP
Ecological model. However, turbidity also has the potential to affect the fountain darter relative to
their ability to feed. If turbidity does impact the feeding ability of the darter it is very likely that it
might also impact other fish species (i.e. darter predators), thus magnifying the complexity by
requiring testing of known predators to firmly answer the applicable HCP Phase II question. This
point has been raised by Dr. Tom Arsuffi (HCP Science committee) on several occasions. The
complexity surrounding these issues is immense and will require a series of experiments to be
conducted in both the laboratory and field setting. This study specifically addresses potential
recreational impacts and thus will be important for management decisions.
Out of professional respect for the researchers who proposed and designed the Texas wild-rice
suspended sediment study, BIO-WEST did not submit a proposal for that project. With that said, had
we proposed on that project, our cost estimate would have been close to the equal distribution of
$450,000 / 8 studies for intensive field sampling prior to, during, and after the 2015 recreation season as
well as following storm events to fully capture the spectrum of potential impacts and tease out causes
relative to increased turbidity. We feel studies 5 and 6 (Table 1) could be effectively conducted for
slightly over the equal distribution of $450,000 / 8 studies. As such, it is very possible that five or six
applied research studies could be funded during 2015 and designed to provide significant contributions
to the HCP under the assumption that $450,000 is available for use.
8
Should additional funding be available, Table 1 shows the order for how we would rank the fountain
darter compensatory reproduction study (#135) and shear stress aquatic vegetation study (#136). In our
opinion, the compensatory reproduction study is a fascinating academic exercise but likely too complex
for incorporation into the present ecological model without significant resources and follow-on studies.
It will likely provide a benefit from a refugia research component and thus will be valuable to the HCP
down the road.
Although the shear stress study was specifically submitted by the HCP Ecological Modeling team back
in the spring, the current status of analysis of the empirical aquatic vegetation scour data in both systems
being conducted by the Ecomodel team right now suggests that it may not be necessary to complete that
study to parameterize the model. Regardless, in our opinion, it is too early to tell with the analysis and
modeling extending into 2015 for that assessment. As such, it is our opinion that should the shear stress
study be necessary, it be slated for 2016 applied research.
We apologize upfront that we have included this same verbiage in each of our four submittals, but we
wanted the Authority to understand our rationale for scopes and budgets. In this particular proposal, we
feel the Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Habitat Connectivity Study (#132-14-HCP) is critically important
in the context of the HCP Ecological Model, Phase I testing, and Phase II decision making.
Initial testing of the Riffle Beetle Aquifer Simulation System (RBASS) at the FAB wet lab.
9
POTENTIAL PACKAGES
In going through this exercise of prioritizing and scope development, we have identified some potential
package options below for the Authority to consider. We feel each has the potential to enhance
efficiency and effectiveness of 2015 applied research efforts (basically save time/money and space).
Package A
•
Algal Dynamics and Dissolved Oxygen depletion (#134)
Ludwigia interference (#137)
Rationale:
Both these studies involve teaming with Baylor University for field and laboratory components
so costs associated with travel to and from the site and could be reduced from an efficiency
standpoint.
o Both studies will involve extensive field testing components in order to fully address the
questions at hand. As such, close coordination of both field efforts would save additional time
and effort.
o
Package B
•
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Connectivity (#132)
Food source refinement (#130)
Rationale:
o
o
Package C
Both these studies build off the foundation of changes in flow that result in vegetation decay,
water quality changes, and invertebrate response. Both studies will involve laboratory
experiments at the Freeman Aquatic Building (FAB) in which water quality parameters will
need to be altered. Setting up heating, chilling, CO 2 depletion, etc. is no trivial endeavor and
thus having one reservoir chamber to support the water quality conditions simultaneously for
both these studies will save space and money.
Both these studies involve teaming with Dr. Nowlin at Texas State University and laboratory
components at the FAB so costs associated with travel to and from the FAB could be reduced
from an efficiency standpoint.
Algal Dynamics and DO depletion (#134)
Ludwigia interference (#137)
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Connectivity (#132)
Food source refinement (#130)
Rationale:
o
All four of these studies have interdependencies including field components, laboratory
components, project team members, and travel as described above. Should the BIO-WEST
project team be selected for all four, an additional 5% discount would be applied.
Based on our approaches we are confident the above packages would save time, space, and resources.
DEGREE OF COMPLIANCE - All services quoted in this proposal are in full accord with the general
requirements of proposal #132-14-HCP. The BIO-WEST project team has all the resources necessary to
perform the services outlined in the RFP.
PROPOSAL PRICING - The cost estimate for the Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Habitat Connectivity
Study (#132-14-HCP) has been submitted under separate cover.
10
ATTACHMENT A1
ATTACHMENT A1
EDWARDS AQUIFER AUTHORITY
PROPOSAL SUMMARY FOR #132-14-HCP
COMAL SPRINGS RIFFLE BEETLE HABITAT CONNECTIVITY STUDY
Vendor Name:
Submit to:
BIO-WEST, Inc.
Ms. Cyndi Holman
Procurement Specialist
Edwards Aquifer Authority
900 E. Quincy Street
San Antonio, TX 78215
Attach your proposal to implement Applied Research related to study algae dynamics and dissolved oxygen
depletion to this document.
The following exceptions to the Specifications are noted:
None
Response to Commercial Questions and Statements
What is the current financial status and condition of the proposing entity?
BIO-WEST’s current financial status is strong.
The EAA reserves the right to request financial statements as needed.
Please mark one of the following:
_____X____ I agree with the terms and conditions of the contract form as contained in Attachment C to the
proposal specifications.
_________ I do not agree with the terms and conditions of the attached contract form as contained in Attachment
C to the proposal specifications.
A1-1
11
ATTACHMENT A3
ATTACHMENT A3
EDWARDS AQUIFER AUTHORITY
CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT #132-14-HCP
COMAL SPRINGS RIFFLE BEETLE HABITAT CONNECTIVITY STUDY
Vendor Name:
BIO-WEST, Inc.
DEFINITION
A Conflict of Interest arises when a Consultant has a financial interest, person relationships or
circumstances that could impair the Consultant’s ability to provide impartial advice or assistance in the
best interest of the EAA or; the Consultant’s objectivity in performing the contract work is, or might be,
impaired and/or; would cause the Consultant to have an unfair competitive advantage in the selection
process.
STATEMENT
I hereby represent and warrant that providing the services described in this proposal will not constitute
an actual or potential conflict of interest, and represent and warrant that it will not reasonably create
even the appearance of impropriety.
I further agree to:
•
•
•
Disclose any current employees who are former employees of the EAA;
Represent and warrant that BIO-WEST has not given, nor intend to give, at any time
hereafter, any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special
discount, trip, favor or service to an employee or representative of the EAA in
connection with this solicitation;
Represent and warrant that BIO-WEST shall not engage in providing consultation or
representation of clients, agencies or firms which may constitute a conflict of interest
which results in a disadvantage to the EAA or a disclosure which would adversely
affect the interests of the EAA.
The undersigned certifies that the information contained in this letter is true to the best of their
knowledge.
A3-1
13
SCOPE OF WORK
As shown in the RFP, this study has been broken into five tasks including 1) Literature Review, 2)
Methodology Development, 3) Conduct Applied Research, 4) Draft and Final Reports, and 5) Meetings
and Presentations. The overall objective of our proposal is to evaluate data and organism responses that
may be useful in management decisions and may be necessary for the development of a Comal Springs
riffle beetle component of the HCP Ecological Model.
The distribution of the Comal Springs riffle beetle (Heterelmis comalensis) in central Texas and within
the Comal system is well defined. Additionally, 2014 HCP applied research activities currently in
progress are projected to provide important information on population size and preliminary responses to
low-flow and altered water quality (water temperature and dissolved oxygen) conditions. Unfortunately,
very little else is known regarding the life history and surface / subsurface interactions and how that
affects the population and/or distribution of H. comalensis. As discussed in the introduction, Applied
Research in 2013 and 2014 demonstrated that aquatic vegetation as fountain darter habitat and fountain
darters themselves are quite tolerant suggesting that H. comalensis may in fact be more of a sentinel
species than the fountain darter in the Comal system. This is extremely important in that the present
HCP flow regime exhibits periods of extended drying of the spring runs, and areas along the western
shoreline and Spring Island (these areas are the presumed strong hold for the riffle beetle in the Comal
System). Although the HCP flow regime is not projected as severe on the minimum end as experienced
in the drought of record (DOR), these projected HCP extended periods of < 100 cfs are well beyond
what was observed in the DOR. With H. comalensis likely shifting to be the sentinel species for the
Comal system, understanding their tolerance and surface/subsurface interactions is vital to making Phase
II decisions.
Both H. comalensis HCP applied research projects (low-flow and plastron) conducted in 2014 used
aquatic invertebrate surrogates (Microcylloepus pusillus, Heterelmis vulnerata, and Heterelmis glabra)
at differing levels for various reasons. The use of a surrogate species in place of H. comalensis would
be extremely useful, but after a series of trials in 2014 there were concerns raised regarding a few of the
aforementioned species. Additionally, some issues with the survival of H. comalensis in a laboratory
setting were experienced in 2014. This latter phenomenon provides the rationale for the first task
associated with this scope of work. The concept of more detailed testing of surrogates prior to future
use is addressed in the Scope Alterations section below.
Task 1 – Literature Review:
The BIO-WEST project team will conduct a detailed literature review including at a minimum the
categories recommended in the RFP. The BIO-WEST project team has the direct advantage in that we
completed previous Applied Research efforts directly for the HCP dealing with aquatic
macroinvertebrate tolerances. As such, should our team be selected, much of the literature has already
been mined and reviewed allowing our project team to be ready to move quickly into methodology
development. An example of literature pulled together by the project team in support of this proposal is
presented below.
Task 2 – Methodology Development:
Similar to the literature review, the BIO-WEST project team has already conducted a number of trials in
2013 and 2014 to evaluate Hyalella azteca, H. comalensis, M. pusillus, and H. glabra. This was no
small endeavor and provides our team a direct advantage over other researchers. Additionally, the BIOWEST project team also has extensive experience preparing methodologies, experimental design, and
15
presenting to the HCP science team as discussed in the executive summary. We presented and received
approval for all nine study designs from the HCP science committee in 2013 and 2014 with minimal
revisions requested. The experience of how to streamline and communicate effectively with the HCP
science team is a key aspect in the success of these projects.
Task 3 – Conduct Applied Research:
In 2015, we are proposing a series of trials involving H. comalensis and the surrogate species as follows:
Phase 1: - Pre-laboratory Trial – TSU Freemen Aquatic Building (FAB) versus USFWS San
Marcos Aquatic Resource Center (SMARC) or similar facility water comparison trial
Because of the issues experienced with H. comalensis and H. vulnerata in 2014, we feel it is prudent to
conduct a preliminary surrogate evaluation with water sources from two independent facilities. One
hypothesis is that there might be infrequent and unpredictable pulses of “bad” water in the FAB system,
but trying to capture such an event with high resolution chemical analysis is both costly in terms of time
and money. Preliminary data indicates that the incoming water at the FAB doesn’t change much at all,
but that data is logged in the Artesian Well at 15 minute intervals and this site is upstream from the tank
that supplies water to the living streams. Water in the storage tank that supplies the living stream
systems has been analyzed for cations and anions on a couple of occasions with no abnormalities noted.
Until comparative testing is done biologically with these known water sources, a definitive answer of
whether the water source in FAB is associated with increased mortality of H. comalensis in the FAB
remains unknown.
16
Experimental Design:
• Collect 30 to 60 individuals of each H. comalensis, M. pusillus, H. vulnerata and H.
glabra.
• Set up six identical aquaria with flow through at the same water rates and place three
aquaria at the SMARC (or similar facility) and three at the FAB.
• Place 5 to 10 beetles of each of the 4 species (thus 20 to 40 beetles total) into each of
the six tanks.
• Place thermisters for continuous water temperature measurements in each of the six
treatment tanks.
• Monitor standard water quality parameters daily – dissolved oxygen (DO), ph,
conductivity and water temperature of the effluent of each of the six trial tanks.
• Install In situ TROLL water quality logging data sondes in reservoirs with the incoming
water sources at both the SMARC (or similar facility) and FAB. The sondes will
continuously log temperature, DO conductivity, and ORP (oxidation-reduction
potential).
• Run trial for 4 weeks checking survival bi-weekly throughout.
This preliminary trial serves two purposes. First it assesses water chemistry at two independent facilities
for a period of time that a typical invertebrate experiment would not exceed. Secondly, it examines if H.
comalensis and several potential surrogate species exhibit differential survival. If survival occurs and is
not significantly different, all experimentation will be carried forward at the FAB. If not, arrangements
will be made to work at the SMARC or a similar facility known to support aquatic invertebrates.
Regardless of study results, additional surrogate testing is highly recommended as discussed in the
Scope Alterations section of this proposal.
Phase 2: Detailed Surrogate Testing – see Scope Alteration section below.
Phase 3: Riffle Beetle Habitat Connectivity Trials
We propose a series of trials to test surrogate
and/or H. comalensis behavior in the Riffle
Beetle Aquifer Simulation System (RBASS)
that was designed, built and used by BIO-WEST
for 2014 research (pictured to the right). We
highly recommend the surrogate testing (Phase
2) and use of surrogates for all initial testing to
increase sample sizes, minimize impacts directly
to H. comalensis, and ease any potential
permitting conditions of USFWS Ecological
Services. If Phase 2 is conducted, this should
provide the information to move forward with
confidence with a surrogate. If Phase 2 is not
conducted, the formal experiments described in
Phase 3 will need to be run with H. comalensis
and likely much smaller sample sizes. Pending
the results of Phase 1, all studies with H.
comalensis may also need to be conducted at the
SMARC or similar facility. Regardless of beetle used, the series of tests remains the same and are
17
summarized as follows. Of course all final methodologies and experimental designs will need to be
vetted with the HCP Science Committee for comment.
TRIAL A - SPRING RUN HABITAT CONNECTIVITY
The goal of this study is to assess the importance of subsurface habitat connectivity to the surface edge
hypothesized as being important to H. comalensis in terms of protective habitat, food or both. The
objective would be to examine the influence of surface connectivity to edge habitat in a series of
simulated spring runs. This is a test of lateral connectivity of the springs runs to the bank. It is
anticipated that this would be evaluated via a connection with course particulate organic matter (CPOM)
and organic matter exudate type materials along the edge of the habitat (bank). Within the RBASS
spring run design (pictured below), this would involve distributing this material in the upper few
centimeters (edge) of the experimental set-up and then passing water laterally through the substrate
column.
It is anticipated that up to nine experimental spring run units would be used to test up to three treatments
in triplicate. The treatments may include:
1) Constant water level and flow (control) with surface edge habitat connected at all times
2) Reduced water level with no connectivity to surface edge habitat
3) Reduced water level with supplemental connectivity to surface edge habitat
18
The number and type of beetles used per treatment would be determined upon completion of Phase 2
surrogate testing. It is anticipated that the trial would be run for a minimum of three weeks with daily
water quality measurements recorded. If surrogates are used, survival will be the parameter recorded at
weekly intervals over the course of the study. If H. comalensis are used, ecological death may be the
parameter tested. Ecological death is determined when the beetle ceases to respond to agitation but is
able to recover when placed back into its original holding chamber. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) will
be used to evaluate any differences among treatments for survival or ecological death at the conclusion
of the study.
TRIAL B - UPWELLING HABITAT CONNECTIVITY
Trial B is similar in concept to Trial A, but involves the testing of vertical flow rather than horizontal
flow described in Trial A. The objective of this study is to assess vertical flow and connectivity whether
on the way up (during normal discharge and upwelling conditions) or on the way down (during low
water levels via either rainfall or water supplementation). The hypothesis is that the surface layer (edge
included) is important to the Comal Springs riffle beetle for cover, food or both. It is anticipated that this
trial would be conducted in the upwelling chambers of the RBASS (pictured below) with water
percolating through substrates from above (with CPOM in the upper layers).
It is anticipated that up to twelve experimental upwelling units would be used to test up to four
treatments in triplicate. The treatments likely include:
1) Constant upwelling flow (Control) with surface layer connection at all times,
2) Reduced water level (subsurface) with no connectivity to surface layer,
3) Reduced water level (subsurface) with supplemental (man-made) but constant connection to
surface layer, and
4) Reduced water level (subsurface) with intermittent connection (simulated rain fall) to surface
layer.
19
As with Trial A, the number and type of beetles used per treatment would be determined upon
completion of Phase 2 surrogate testing. It is anticipated that the trial would be run for a minimum of
three weeks with daily water quality measurements (temperature, DO, conductivity) recorded.
Depending on whether surrogates or H. comalensis are used, survival or ecological death would be
recorded at weekly intervals over the course of the study. Statistical analysis would be used to evaluate
survival or ecological death amongst upwelling treatments at the conclusion of the study.
TRIAL C - FIELD VALIDATION - HABITAT CONNECTIVITY
Upon completion of the series of laboratory studies in
surface water chambers and the RBASS, we propose to
conduct a validation field exercise in Spring Run 3 (pictured
to the right and below) of the Comal system. At this point,
it is difficult to describe specifics for this field effort as it is
dependent on the results of the laboratory trials. However,
it is anticipated to include natural areas that are connected to
surface habitat as the control and areas that are disconnected
(pictured below) as the test unit. An examination of H.
comalensis use will be conducted in those areas before and
after connectivity (via well water or recirculated water from
Spring Run 3 or Landa Lake) with flow over natural
detritus/roots and then statistically compared back to the control.
20
Assumptions:
Adequate space and equipment will be made available as requested at the FAB. This
includes three living streams for experimentation.
The USFWS will allow for testing in Phase 1 and subsequent phases (if necessary) to
be conducted at the SMARC. If not, other facilities using Edwards Aquifer water
known to support aquatic invertebrates will be pursued.
Task 4 – Draft and Final Reports:
For costing purposes, this task includes all data reduction, data analysis, and statistical
interpretation. As outlined in the RFP, BIO-WEST will submit the draft project report no later
than thirty (30) days from the conclusion of the research. The draft report will meet the
requirements of the RFP. A final report will be submitted within 2 weeks following the review
of EAA’s review comments.
Task 5 – Meetings and Presentations:
As referenced in the RFP, BIO-WEST will attend a minimum of two meetings and prepare and
conduct one presentation to the HCP Science team. As BIO-WEST will be attending the HCP
Science meeting for other ongoing activities, should our team be selected we will attend this
meeting at NO charge to this project.
PROPOSED SCOPE ALTERATIONS:
Phase 2 – Detailed Surrogate Trial – The study location would be dependent on the results of Phase 1.
If there is no difference between the water sources at the SMARC or similar facility and FAB, all work
would be conducted at the FAB. However, if we determine if there are significant differences in
survivorship for H. comalensis and the surrogate species, then all subsequent testing will be conducted
at the facility with higher survivorship. Regardless, all work would be built upon 2014 activities and
2015 Phase 1 results. At this point, water temperature and DO tolerances for H. glabra and H. vulnerata
are being studied at the FAB as part of the plastron study. If the Authority approves an extension to the
plastron study and both the Authority and USFWS allow for a location shift to the SMARC, those
surrogate results will be duplicated via short-term experiments on H. comalensis. Either way, by the end
of the 2014 applied research, we should have an idea as to any differences in temperature and DO
tolerances in terms of two or three of the species (and presumably whether the two other Heterelmis spp.
are suitable surrogates for H. comalensis) relative to those two parameters. However, we don’t have any
information about M. pusillus or the preferences/performance of all the species on different substrates,
flow rates, etc. We do not see a need to repeat experiments on short-term exposure of water temperature
or DO, unless H. comalensis was not able to be tested against in 2014. In that case we recommend a
short-term repeat of that effort including all 4 species described above.
Our main recommendation is a series of experiments where we test longer term responses of
experimental replicate populations (n=10 individuals per population x 4 populations of each beetle
species) under regimes of different temperatures (in situ temperature, 25°C and 30°C) and different
substrate types, as well as possibly horizontal and upwelling flow. Our intent would be to use a crossclassified design on this so we could pull out the independent effects of each factor and their interaction
on beetle survival and/or ecological death.
The objective of this series of experiments is to pinpoint a surrogate that is scientifically defensible and
not just based on expert opinion. Using a surrogate would undoubtedly allow larger sample sizes to be
21
tested moving forward as well as less complex, and shorter delays in permitting. All costs for Phase 2
were included separately under “Other” on Attachment A2. Therefore, should the Authority decide not
to fund this supplement, you can simply deduct that cost from the total.
QUALIFICATIONS - PROJECT TEAM
Established in 1976, BIO-WEST, Inc. is a
multi-discipline, environmental consulting
firm with a permanent core staff of senior
level scientists and an experienced support
staff. The firm is a leader in environmental
consulting and problem solving, and has
earned a widely acknowledged reputation for providing objective, credible services and superior
products to a wide variety of agencies, organizations, and private clients. BIO-WEST strives to
maintain an outstanding reputation for fisheries, aquatic vegetation, and endangered species
investigations throughout the United States. BIO-WEST has extensive knowledge of the aquatic biota
and ecological relationships of the Comal and San Marcos River/Springs ecosystem as they have
conducted continuous monitoring and research related to the endangered species in these systems for
over 13 years. Finally, BIO-WEST has all state and federal endangered species permits necessary to
conduct this work upon award.
The Department of Biology at Texas State University - San Marcos is a
large, multidisciplinary department with many strong research programs
that are well funded. They serve about 14,000 students each year in
modern facilities with up to date instrumentation emphasizing inquirybased hands-on instruction. The Department of Biology’s goal is to attain
national and international prominence through integrating undergraduate
and graduate education with multidisciplinary research programs. Dr. Weston Nowlin (Associate
Professor – Texas State University) is an expert at assessing how biotic and abiotic factors affect the
abundance, distribution, and diversity of organisms in ecosystems. The Nowlin Lab is highly
collaborative and students represent a variety of research interests. Students often assist each other on
projects and have a great deal of fun in the lab and the field.
Zara Environmental LLC (Zara) is a woman-owned business founded
in 2003 by Dr. Jean Krejca and Peter Sprouse. Zara staff have a
combined 80 years experience in surveying for aquifer and springassociated invertebrate species, and they employ six scientists
permitted for work with the Comal Springs Riffle Beetle. Zara’s
experience not only includes surveys at such known localities as
Hueco Springs, Comal Springs, Barton Springs, Fern Bank Springs, Salado Springs, Rattlesnake Cave,
Ezell's Cave and Jacobs Well, but also at several less well known springs, water caves and wells
throughout the Edwards Plateau. Since 2007, Zara has documented more than 20 new locality records
for spring and aquifer dwelling crustaceans, documenting an entire order of fauna previously unknown
to the Edwards Aquifer, expanded the known range of two species of aquifer dwelling blind catfish, and
collected new species of spring and aquifer dwelling copepods and amphipods. Zara personnel have also
conducted aquatic surveys for invertebrates in surface and subsurface environments throughout Bell,
Bexar, Comal, Coryell, Guadalupe, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties..
22
The Center for Reservoir and Aquatic
Systems Research (CRASR) is a
research and education partnership
between Baylor University and the City of Waco
focused on aquatic resources. Dr. Robert Doyle is the
Director of the CRASR and he and his students continue
to explore novel ideas and creative techniques to
maximize aquatic vegetation research and restoration in
spring ecosystems.
KEY TEAM MEMBERS
Edmund L. Oborny, Jr. – Project Principal
Mr. Oborny is the Fisheries Section Leader and BIO-WEST’s VicePresident. He specializes in aquatic ecology, threatened and
endangered species, water quality, biological modeling, and instream
flow issues and concepts. He has 19 years of professional extensive
experience and expertise with fisheries investigations throughout
Texas and the western United States. Mr. Oborny has been the
project manager and principal aquatic resources investigator for the
multi-discipline, multi-year Variable Flows and Water Quality Study
(now HCP Bio-monitoring) for the Edwards Aquifer Authority since
its inception. This large-scale applied research project involves
intensive sampling, data analyses and interpretation regarding the
importance of various flow regimes and associated impacts to the
threatened and endangered species of the Comal and San Marcos
Springs/River ecosystems. Mr. Oborny’s experience and expertise with complex ecological issues is
also illustrated by the number of professional appointments that he has received in the past 5 years.
These appointments are listed in their entirety in Mr. Oborny’s resume, but are summarized below:
 State wide Environmental Flows Science Advisory Committee Member: 2009-present
 Southern Edwards Aquifer Species Recovery Team Member: 2008-present.
 Special Consultant to the Biological Working Group (BWG) in Spring Valley, Nevada:
2007 – present.
 Blue Ribbon Science Advisory Panel Member (Aquatic Resources) in Owens Valley,
California: 2009-present.
 Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) Science Subcommittee
Member: 2008-2011.
 Third Party Independent Review of Mono Basin Stream Ecosystem Flows
Recommendations: 2009.
 Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) Biological Modeling
Team: 2008 – 2010.
23
Dr. Weston Nowlin: Texas State University – Co- Principal Investigator
Dr. Nowlin is an Associate Professor of Biology at Texas
State University-San Marcos, specializing in aquatic
ecosystems. Research in his is centered on the role of
organisms and communities in affecting ecosystem-level
processes like nutrient cycling and organic matter flows. In
addition, Dr. Nowlin assesses how biotic and abiotic factors
affect the abundance, distribution, and diversity of organisms
in ecosystems. In order to address these research areas, his
lab utilizes a variety of methods and research approaches,
including nutrient biogeochemistry, whole ecosystem
metabolism and material flux studies, and the use of stable
isotopes. Additionally, research in Dr. Nowlin’s lab takes
place in a variety of ecosystem types and at a diversity of
scales. They conduct research in wetlands, streams, rivers,
lakes, and reservoirs as well as small laboratory-based
studies, field-based experimental systems, and at the wholeecosystem scale. Dr. Nowlin is a Co-Principal Investigator
on the ongoing Comal Springs Riffle Beetle plastron study
funded as part of the 2014 HCP Applied Research.
Mr. Randy Gibson: Senior Macroinvertebrate Specialist
Mr. Gibson specializes in aquatic macroinvertebrates and is
the foremost expert on the Comal Springs riffle beetle
(Heterelmis comalensis). He has 15 years of professional
experience working as both a fish biologist for the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Aquatic Resource Center, San Marcos,
Texas and as a Senior Macroinvertebrate Specialist for BIOWEST. Mr. Gibson conducts research and maintenance of
captive populations of threatened and endangered species
including the Comal Springs riffle beetle, Peck’s cave
amphipod (Stygobromus pecki), fountain darter (Etheostoma
fonticola), San Marcos salamander (Eurycea nana), Texas
blind salamander (Typhlomolge rathbuni), and Texas
wildrice (Zizania texana). Mr. Gibson’s professional duties
include experimentation with how best to develop refugia for
the Comal Spring riffle beetle to support its survival in
captivity. Additionally, Mr. Gibson has been working for
BIO-WEST since 2001 and is the lead investigator in charge
of all endangered macroinvertebrate sampling involving
cotton lures and drift netting over spring orifices.
24
Dr. Jean Krejca: (Zara Environmental)
Dr. Krejca, President, Zara Environmental LLC, has extensive
experience with the identification and regulation of endangered
species and habitat in Texas. She is a specialist in the biology of
subterranean species including karst invertebrates, bats, and Eurycea
salamanders. She has been responsible for the design,
implementation, and management of time sensitive environmental
projects dealing with karst and aquatic issues in Bexar, Travis,
Williamson, and Hays counties in central Texas. Dr. Krejca’s project
experience also includes leading biological inventories, rare and
endangered species surveys, and developing customized biological
studies. She has worked as an invertebrate biologist since 1991 and
she holds a USFWS permit for Comal Springs riffle beetle and other
Comal Springs species.
Dr. Robert Doyle: Baylor University – Co-Principal Investigator
Dr. Robert Doyle currently serves as the Director for the Center
for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research, Professor, and
Department Chair in Biology at Baylor University. Dr. Doyle has
nearly 30 years of experience specializing in aquatic plant ecology
and community dynamics. Dr. Doyle has worked in the Comal and
San Marcos rivers since the 1990s when he first completed aquatic
vegetation maps for both systems. Dr. Doyle subsequently
conducted numerous experimental plantings of native species in
both the Comal and San Marcos River. Like Mr. Oborny, Dr.
Doyle also serves on the USFWS Recovery Team for the
endangered species in the Comal and San Marcos ecosystem. Dr.
Doyle’s extensive knowledge of aquatic vegetation in the Comal
River, and unparalleled expertise in aquatic vegetation applied research in spring ecosystems provides
an outstanding compliment to the project team.
25
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
EARIP HCP 2014 Sponsored - APPLIED RESEARCH STUDY
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Low-Flow Study
Objective:
During a comprehensive
literature review, there were no studies
found about prior experiments where flow
rates were used to predict invertebrate
survival, particularly in subterranean
habitats. The goal of this study was to use a
novel experimental design to create “spring
upwelling” mesocosms in an attempt to shed
light on H. comalensis survivorship inside
of the springs during periods of low flow
and flow cessation. Vertical flow regimes
were designed to mimic periods of drought
that have caused Comal Springs discharge
to decrease to the point that spring
upwellings no longer connect the
subterranean and surface habitats that H.
comalensis likely inhabit in the wild. The
objective was to provide information as to
how the physical (i.e. temperature) and
chemical properties (i.e. DO, pH,
conductivity) of spring water change as flow
velocity decreases and how beetle
survivorship is related to these properties.
The results of both will be valuable to
inform EARIP HCP Phase II decisions.
Task Description:
Following the preliminary
decisions about the construction of the mesocosms in
substrate preferences, and surrogate responses, testing
of the effect of flow and food availability on H.
comalensis adults was conducted using a factorial
experimental design. Each factor (flow and food
availability) will have two levels (Yes or No) and the
combinations will be tested
Location: This study was conducted at the Texas State
University Freeman Aquatic Building.
Data Analysis and Results:
Preliminary results show that surrogate invertebrate responses
may not be applicable to H. comalensis relative to each treatment.
Therefore, additional testing is underway to continue to explore
these relationships. Upon completion of the formal study, the
data collected will be analyzed using a factorial ANOVA, which
will test the independent and interactive effects of flow and food
availability in each treatment.
26
EARIP HCP 2013 Sponsored - APPLIED
RESEARCH STUDY
Low-flow Food Source Study
Objective: Several EARIP HCP studies have focused on what
happens to aquatic vegetation (a key fountain darter habitat)
during low-flow. However, this study was conducted to address,
“What will happen to invertebrate food sources for the fountain
darter under extreme low-flow conditions?” Therefore, the
objective of this study was to use native Hyalella azteca from the
Comal system as a surrogate to evaluate this food source
questions. The results of this study will be valuable to inform the
ecological model being prepared for the EARIP HCP.
Task Description: The study used a series of trials to
build upon each other and address the question. The first
was a series of pre-trial experiments to establish an
appropriate acclimation process for this species. The next
step was to conduct a series of Critical Thermal Maximum
(CTM) experiments evaluating three different acclimation
temperatures, and concluding with a determination of
ecological death. Finally, both a constant test laboratory
study evaluating different water temperatures in fiberglass
living streams is being conducted, as well as a pond study
that evaluates diurnal conditions of water quality and
response of H. azteca in a low-flow and no-flow treatments
in a pond environment.
Location:
This study was
conducted at
the aquatic
nursery/greenh
ouse/pond
facilities of the
San Marcos
Aquatic Research Center.
Data Analysis and Results: Data analysis involved evaluating
survival, biomass, and morphology of the three species (Cabomba,
Ludwigia, and Sagittaria) of plants being tested. Results from the
study will examine the ratio of above ground to below ground
biomass and relative growth rate of the plant species. Preliminary
results suggest plants in both treatments grew over the course of the
experiment. Statistical analysis is now underway to investigate
differences among variables.
27
Vegetation Tolerance Laboratory Trials
Objective: Submerged aquatic vegetation provides extremely important habitat for the endangered fountain
darter. Therefore, understanding factors that influence aquatic vegetation growth and reproduction is critical to
maintaining fountain darter populations. Objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of low-flow
conditions on aquatic vegetation survival and growth.
Task Description: This study was conducted in a series of experiments starting with pre-study trials in aquaria,
two sets of laboratory studies using fiberglass living streams, and concluding with a pond study. All experiments
were aimed at defining parameters or establishing bounds for aquatic vegetation growth or decay that could be
used to parameterize the HCP Ecological Model.
Location: This study was
conducted at the aquatic
nursery/greenhouse/pond
facilities of the San Marcos
Aquatic Research Center.
The response variables for the
aquatic plant species are
survival, biomass (above and
below ground), and stem
length and number. Results
from pre-trial study showed
that growth of plant species
still occurred at elevated water
temperatures and limited CO 2
conditions. This information
was used to design both a constant test laboratory study evaluating three different water temperatures and low
CO 2 combinations with four aquatic plant species, as well as a pond study that evaluated diurnal conditions of
water quality in a low-flow and no-flow treatment in a pond relative to both Ludwigia and Vallesneria. Results
from each study will be presented in fall 2013. O 2 concentrations were tested.
28
EARIP HCP 2013
Sponsored - APPLIED
RESEARCH STUDY
Bicarbonate Utilization
Potential - pH Drift
Study
Objective: Submerged aquatic
vegetation provides extremely
important habitat for the
endangered fountain darter.
Therefore, understanding factors
that influence aquatic vegetation
growth and reproduction is
critical to maintaining fountain
darter populations. Objectives of
this study were to determine
which aquatic plant species are
capable of HCO3 utilization.
Task Description: This approach was to assay plants under closed-system conditions and see how far they can
“push” pH. If a CO 2 obligate: Ps stops when CO 2 is depleted. However, if a HCO 3 user: Ps continues to higher
pH. As with the other aquatic vegetation experiments, the pH drift study was designed to define parameters and
establish bounds for aquatic vegetation growth or decay that can be used to parameterize the HCP Ecological
Model.
Location: This study was conducted at the Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research facility on the
campus of Baylor University.
Data Analysis and Results: This
study used a synthetic Ps solution
(known
alkalinity
and
carbon
composition).
As CO 2 depletion
lower total inorganic carbon (C T ) only
modestly, HCO 3 use lowers C T more
strongly. The analysis focused on the
major Comal aquatic plant species:
Hygrophila, Ludwigia, Cabomba,
Vallisneria,
Sagittaria
and
bryophytes. The Key response focus
was on final pH and C T :Alk ratio.
The “better” a species can use HCO 3 ,
the higher they can push (drift) pH
and the lower the C T :Alk ratio. A
one-way ANOVA was used to
compare among species.
Final
Results from the pH drift study will be
presented in fall 2013.
29
Laboratory vs. Field Study
Objective:
Submerged aquatic
vegetation
provides
extremely
important habitat for the endangered
fountain darter in both the Comal and
San Marcos ecosystems. Therefore,
understanding factors that influence
aquatic vegetation growth and
reproduction is critical to maintaining
fountain darter populations. As not
all low-flow conditions will be
observable in the field, laboratory
studies are going to be needed to
simulate field conditions. Therefore,
the objective of this study was to
compare growth of aquatic vegetation
in the field versus the laboratory
while
grown
under
similar
environmental conditions. The results
of which will be valuable to inform
the ecological model being prepared
for the EARIP HCP.
Task Description: The study approach involved growing plants in the field and laboratory under as close to the
same environmental conditions. Environmental conditions tested included flow velocity, temperature, carbon
dioxide, pH, conductivity, light, and depth.
Location: This study was conducted at the aquatic nursery/greenhouse facilities of the San Marcos Aquatic
Research Center and within the Old Channel of the Comal River.
Parameters
pH
Alkalinity, total
Kjeldahl-N
Nitrate-N/IC
Nitrite-N/IC
Total Nitrogen
Total phosphorus
Units
pH units
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
ARC - Reservoir
4/9/2013
5/6/2013
7.8
260
0.434
1.67
<0.02
2.11
0.0619
7.9
260
0.278
1.6
<0.02
1.88
<0..02
Old Channel
4/9/2013
5/6/2013
7.8
230
0.161
1.72
<0.02
1.88
<0.02
7.6
240
0.404
1.67
<0..02
2.08
<0..02
Data analysis involved evaluating survival,
biomass, and morphology of the three species
(Cabomba, Ludwigia, and Sagittaria) of plants
being tested. Results from the study will
examine the ratio of above ground to below
ground biomass and relative growth rate of the
plant species. Preliminary results suggest
plants in both treatments grew over the course
of the experiment. Statistical analysis is now
underway to investigate differences among
variables.
30
Comal and San Marcos Springs Variable Flow Study (2001 -2012) –
now HCP BIO-MONITORING PROGRAM (2013-2014)
Beginning
in
2001,
BIO-WEST
contracted with the Edwards Aquifer
Authority (EAA) to conduct a multi-year
applied research effort with the goal of
augmenting the available data on
population dynamics of threatened and
endangered species in the San Marcos and
Comal Rivers/Spring Ecosystems and its
relationship to springflow. Over the past
14 years, BIO-WEST biologists have
collected and analyzed data on a variety
of components within these systems
including:
aquatic vegetation, exotic
species, water quality, Texas wild-rice, fountain darters, salamanders, and invertebrates.
This study incorporates regular quarterly
sampling in several locations in the two systems,
with flow dependent sampling conducted when
the discharge in one or both of the rivers falls
below or rises above specified “trigger” levels.
The primary goal is to establish baseline data for
each of the endangered species’ populations and
track habitat usage and population dynamics as
spring flow decreases during drought conditions.
Specialized techniques such as drop netting, drift
netting, in-situ water temperature loggers, and
SCUBA surveys, are being used to sample these
unique ecosystems.
Through this extensive multi-component monitoring
program BIO-WEST personnel have become very
familiar with the Comal River/Springs Ecosystem (in
particular the Upper Spring Run reach and Landa Lake)
and the ecological interactions which influence
endangered species and their habitat. In addition to each
of the study components described above, several
individual research efforts that have developed during
the course of this study were conducted by BIO-WEST
in conjunction with the USFWS ARC. Special studies
are noted with brief descriptions below:
31
Fountain Darter Movement Study
Objective: Fountain darters, like other darters,
appear highly sedentary, moving on average 10
m within a year and up to 95 m within 26 days
under a stable hydrograph (Dammeyer et al.
2013). When movement occurs, fountain darters
move among habitats more frequently (51%)
than other darters (3 to 20%; Mundahl and
Ingersoll 1983; Labbe and Fausch 2000), most
often towards low growing vegetation, upstream,
and during the winter and spring-summer
seasons. Determining how and why fountain
darters disperse throughout the Comal River
system could be vital to the conservation of this
species.
Task Description: A mark and recapture study
was conducted to determine how movement of
fountain darters is affected by habitat and
temperature changes under low flow conditions.
Fountain darter mark and recapture techniques
utilized methods previously developed for
darters and other small-bodied fishes, with visual
implant elastomer (VIE) as the marking material.
Both visual (re-sight) and physical (dipnet, recapture)
methods were used for relocating fountain darters due
to their habitat affinity (i.e. benthic fish occupying
areas of dense vegetation).
Location: This study was conducted in the Upper
Spring Run reach of the Comal River as well as in
Blieder’s creek just above the confluence with the
Comal system.
Distribution of individuals up or downstream of cohort release
points are being evaluated by comparing distributions using
Kolmorogov-Smirnov tests. The effect of temperature on
fountain darter movement is being assessed by comparing the
number of movements toward or away from areas of higher
temperature over each recapture interval using chi -square
tests.
32
Fountain Darter Predation Study
The objective of this
study was to begin the process of
understanding complex predatorprey relationship in the San Marcos
and Comal rivers.
A series of
laboratory
experiments
were
conducted to assess the behavior of
fountain darters with and without
predators; quantify predation rates of
fountain darters with invertebrate
and vertebrate predators; and
evaluate how aquatic vegetation and
substrates might mediate predator
consumption of fountain darters. The
Objective:
results will be valuable to inform the
ecological model being prepared for the
EARIP HCP.
Task Description: The study approach involved
unifying predator/prey interactions under one
experimental design. The experimental unit was an
aquarium with fountain darters. The dependent
variable was the numbers of darters partially or
completely consumed. The control will be an
experimental unit without a predator. Treatments
included crayfish only, centrarchids only, and
crayfish and centrarchids (with vegetation and
without).
Location: This study was conducted at the
Texas State University Freeman Aquatic
Building.
A two-factor ANOVA was used to test for
differences (α=0.05) among treatments and
a Fisher’s LSD for post-hoc mean
separation tests. Preliminary results show
differences among predator treatments (control,
crayfish only, bass only, and crayfish*bass)
and suggest that crayfish and bass effects are
additive. No evidence of trophic cascade
effects. Statistical analysis is now underway to
investigate these differences.
33
Fountain Darter Fecundity Study
Objective: Given that low flow conditions will
likely alter the physical habitats of the fountain
darter, we predict that changes in physical
habitats, especially low-growing and dense
vegetation, will reduce the reproductive
readiness and success of the fountain darter.
To test this prediction, a baseline in fountain
darter reproductive readiness among a gradient
of flow regimes and among vegetation type
was established. Objectives of this study were
to quantify elements of fountain darter
reproduction (gonadal recrudescence, ovarian
development,
fecundity,
and
oocyte
maturation) among available flow gradients
ranging from 10 to 120 cfs in the wild and
among physical habitat types and substrates
(open substrates, low-growing and tall-growing
aquatic vegetation). The results of which will be
valuable to inform the ecological model being
prepared for the EARIP HCP.
Task Description: The study approach involved collecting sexually mature (>24 mm) female fountain
darters monthly. On each collection trip and when available, up to 5 female darters were taken from 3 to
5 areas of bare substrates (sand, gravel, cobble), short growing vegetation, and tall-growing vegetation
within the San Marcos River and Comal River. In the laboratory, lengths and weights of each fish were
taken. Gonadosomatic index, ovarian stage, fecundity, and oocyte maturation were determined for each
fish following methodologies described specifically for darters.
Location: This study was conducted within
the Comal and San Marcos Rivers while
laboratory work was conducted at the
USFWS San Marcos Aquatic Research
Center and Texas State University Freeman
Aquatic Building.
A multi-factored MANOVA will be used
to assess differences (α=0.05) among
treatment effects and response variables.
Preliminary results suggest differences
amongst habitat conditions.
Statistical
analysis is now underway to investigate
these differences.
34
EAA Variable Flow Study - APPLIED RESEARCH
Fountain Darter Lab Study
Objective: Temperatures of 22-24°C are
thought to be optimal for fountain darter
reproduction, whereas temperatures 27°C
and higher are known to negatively impact
reproduction (Bonner et al. 1998).
However, in the lower reaches of the Comal
and San Marcos Rivers temperatures often
fluctuate between optimal and suboptimal
within a 24-hour period. This study was
designed to test the impacts of such
fluctuating water temperatures on fountain
darter egg and larval production.
In
addition, this study examined the effects of
the exotic trematode parasite Centrocestus
formosanus on fountain darter reproduction.
Location: This study was conducted at the San Marcos National Fish Hatchery and Technology Center by Dusty
McDonald and Dr. Timothy H. Bonner of Southwest Texas State University with support from BIO-WEST.
Task Description:
Fountain darters (half
infected with C. formosanus cercariae and half
uninfected) were exposed to one of four
temperature treatments on a 24-hour cycle:
constant 24°C, fluctuating 24 to 26°C,
fluctuating 26 to 28°C, and fluctuating 28 to
30°C. Total number of eggs, number of healthy
eggs, and larval production were then compared
between infected and uninfected fish and
between temperature treatments.
Trial 1
(220)
200
35
(64)
100
100
(28)
Mean number of eggs
(2)
(0.5)
(0)
Trial 2
(68)
100
100
50
(13)
(14)
(4)
(0)
150
50
(14)
(0)
(0)
Trial 3
(94)
150
(99)
(50)
100
(47)
100
(28)
50
50
(0)
24°C
24-26°C 26-28°C 28-30°C
(0)
24°C
Temperature treatments
(0)
24-26°C 26-28°C 28-30°C
Mean number of larvae
Data Analysis and Results: Infection by C. formosanus at
levels and durations tested in this study did not affect
fountain darter reproductive success, and therefore, infected
and uninfected fish were combined for temperature analysis.
Total egg, healthy egg, and larval production were highest at
a constant 24°C, but significantly decreased in variable
higher temperature treatments. These laboratory results
demonstrate that fountain darter reproductive success is
affected by temperatures that fluctuate between optimal and
suboptimal in a 24-hour period. However, data from field
collections show successful reproduction and recruitment in
wild populations when temperatures fluctuate up to 26°C.
200
(122)
(111)
Aquatic Vegetation Lab Study
Objective: Submerged aquatic vegetation
provides extremely important habitat for the
endangered fountain darter.
Therefore,
understanding factors that influence aquatic
vegetation growth and reproduction is
critical to maintaining fountain darter
populations. Objectives of this study were to
evaluate the effects of varying spring flows
and resulting water quality parameters on the
growth of several aquatic plant species
which occur in the Comal and San Marcos
Rivers, including endangered Texas wildrice Zizania texana.
Task Description:
This study was
conducted in two phases. In Phase 1,
Vallisneria sp. and Ludwigia repens plants in
outdoor raceways were exposed to varying
flows of Edwards Aquifer water. Under each flow level water quality parameters were closely monitored and
growth of both species was measured at the end of the study and compared between treatments. In Phase 2, flow
levels and temperature were held constant, and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) concentrations were manipulated between
treatments to examine effects on growth of Texas wild-rice, Ludwigia repens, Vallisneria sp., Hydrocotyle
umbellate, Riccia sp., and Amblystegium sp.
Location: This study was conducted at the aquatic
nursery/greenhouse facilities of the San Marcos
Zizania Below Ground Biomass
DRY WEIGHT (g)
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0.0
National Fish Hatchery and Technology Center.
1
2
3
CO2 TREATMENTS
Data Analysis and Results: Results from Phase 1 of this study showed that growth of both aquatic plant species
tested were greatest under higher flow conditions, mainly as a result of higher CO 2 concentrations. Therefore, in
Phase 2 the impact of CO 2 concentrations were tested. When flow and temperature were held relatively constant
most plants exhibited increased growth in the higher CO 2 treatment. In summary, dissolved CO 2 concentrations
appear to be important in shaping the aquatic plant communities of the San Marcos and Comal Rivers, and
therefore, play an important role in maintaining populations of Texas wild-rice and in maintaining quality habitat
for fountain darters.
36
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Lab Study
Objective:
A paucity of data exists
regarding physiological and ecological
requirements of the Comal Springs riffle
beetle (Heterelmis comalensis). To expand
on data collected in the Comal Springs
riffle beetle habitat survey, a laboratory
study was conducted. Of particular interest
is that this species must have persisted
through low spring flow events such as the
period in 1956 when Comal Springs ceased
to flow for approximately five months.
Potentially, riffle beetles migrate deeper
into the substrate during low flow periods
where some subterranean flow may still
exist. This lab study was designed to test
the relationship between substrate depth,
vertical and lateral flow, and riffle beetle
location.
Vertical Distribution
100
Location: This study was conducted at laboratory
facilities of the San Marcos National Fish Hatchery and
Technology Center.
upwelling
80
horizontal flow
percent of beetles
Task Description:
In the lab, several detailed
experimental blocks were constructed with black acrylic
plexiglass and Bio Barrel polypropylene media. The
40
construction of this apparatus was designed to mimic the
20
natural gravel and cobble substrate of the riffle beetle and
0
allowed for movement through the media via interstitial
spaces. Barrier layers were put in place to slow beetle
movement and more accurately reflect the decreasing size
of interstitial spaces deeper in the substrate, after test runs revealed that beetles were moving quickly to the
bottom of the block. Blocks were designed to allow flow manipulation both horizontally and vertically through
the apparatus. Riffle beetle locations were noted after experimenting with combinations of horizontal and vertical
flows.
60
top horizontal
Data Analysis and Results: In this laboratory study, Comal
Springs riffle beetles displayed a tendency for downward
movement through the substrate and a preference to be in, and
move toward moving water (current). When horizontal flow was
applied to the block, the beetles were most commonly found
towards the front. When a vertical upwelling flow was applied
to the bottom, most beetles were collected near or moved toward
the bottom. Therefore, it is feasible that these beetles would
respond to decreased spring flows by moving downward into the
substrate in search of a flow stimulus. It is also likely that these
beetles inhabit areas deeper in the gravel and sediment than have
previously been sampled.
37
WORK SCHEDULE
PROPOSED SCHEDULE
Jan.
TASK 1
Literature Review
TASK 2
Methodology Development
Subtasks
2.1
Methodology Development
2.2
Science Team Presentation
TASK 3
Subtasks
Feb. March April
May
2015
June July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Applied Research
3.1
FAB laboratory studies*
3.2
Data Reduction and analysis
TASK 4
Draft and Final Reports
TASK 5
Meetings and Presentations
* Three living streams and two raceways at FAB needed from March through July
BIO-WEST REFERENCES
In addition to the eleven Applied Research projects directly related to the endangered species of the
Comal and San Marcos ecosystems highlighted above, the following references are included for the
Authority’s review.
Attachments B1 – B3
38
Nov
Dec
ATTACHMENT B1
CLIENT REFERENCE
For each reference, complete the following information:
Client Name:
San Antonio River Authority
Client Contact Name: Steve Raabe
Position:
Chief Technical Officer
Client Address: San Antonio River Authority
100 E. Guenther Road
San Antonio, TX 78283
Client Telephone Number(s): (210) 302-3614
Date Contract Began: July 2006 through present
Description of Services:
BIO-WEST was selected as
the prime contractor to assist
the San Antonio River
Authority with a multi-faceted
insstream flow study on the
San Antonio River and Cibolo
Creek. The overall study was
completed in 2011 for
approximately $1.2 million.
The 2014 contract is for
continued long-term
monitoring of the aquatic and
riparian communities. A key
component of the monitoring
is an Applied Research effort
focused on riparian habitat at
two intensive study sites
located on the lower San
Antonio River.
Cost: $225,000 / year
B-1
39
ATTACHMENT B2
CLIENT REFERENCE
Client Name:
Southern Nevada Water Authority
Client Contact Name:
Position:
Zane Marshall
Director of the Water & Environmental Resources Department
Client Address:
Southern Nevada Water Authority
100 City Parkway, Suite 700
Las Vegas, Nevada 89193
Date Contract Began: January 2004 through present
BIO-WEST evaluated existing information and facilitated a
Biological Working Group (BWG) consisting of four U.S.
Department of the Interior bureaus: the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the
Bureau of Land Management, USFWS, and the National Park
Service; and the Nevada Department of Wildlife. BIO-WEST
developed a consistent springs’ characterization methodology and
conducted a comprehensive baseline sampling effort in Nevada’s
Clark, Lincoln, and White Pine counties. The information collected is
being used to provide an assessment of the changes that may
potentially result from the implementation of the counties’
groundwater project. The biological sampling effort includes an
assessment of water quality, aquatic vegetation, fish and aquatic
invertebrates, non-native species, threatened and endangered species,
and species of concern. A major component of BIO-WEST’s
involvement was to develop and conduct Applied Research studies
to 1) support evaluation and refinement of the Monitoring Plan,
and 2) to support GWD Project environmental planning /
compliance, as needed. These activities are being pursued to meet
SNWA commitments and planning needs under the Spring Valley
Stipulation, Nevada State Engineer rulings, and NEPA and ESA
compliance.
Cost: $300,000
B2
40
ATTACHMENT B3
CLIENT REFERENCE
Client Name:
Lower Colorado River Authority
Client Contact Name:
Position:
Bryan Cook
Senior Fisheries Biologist
Client Address:
Lower Colorado River Authority
3700 Lake Austin Blvd.
Austin, TX 78703
Date Contract Began:
July 1, 2004 – continued assessments
Radio-tagged blue sucker recaptured 16 months after tagging.
BIO-WEST was contracted by the Lower Colorado River Authority and completed a complex multi-year
environmental analysis of instream-flow conditions and requirements of the biological community in the
Colorado River. BIO-WEST collected extensive biological and physical habitat data to model and predict the
potential effects of changes in flow patterns on fishes, aquatic invertebrates and the riparian community. The
second major component of the study was an Applied Research effort that involved tagging and monitoring the
habitat usage and migration patterns of the blue sucker over a three year period.
Cost: $1,350,000
B-3
41
RESUMES – To save resources – resumes are provided in
digital format for all copies.
42
BIO-WEST, Inc.
James Randall Gibson, Senior Macroinvertebrate Biologist
Mr. Gibson specializes in aquatic macroinvertebrates, and research and
EXPERIENCE
maintenance of captive populations of threatened and endangered species
►
Aquatic macroinvertebrates
including the Comal Springs riffle beetle (Heterelmis comalensis), Peck’s cave
amphipod (Stygobromus pecki), Devils River minnow (Dionda diaboli),
►
Threatened and Endangered
fountain darter (Etheostoma fonticola), San Marcos salamander (Eurycea nana),
Species
Texas blind salamander (Typhlomolge rathbuni), and Texas wildrice (Zizania
texana). He has 14 years of professional experience working as both a fish ► Applied Research
biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Aquatic Resource Center,
San Marcos, Texas and as a Senior Macroinvertebrate Specialist for BIOWEST. Mr. Gibson’s professional duties include: construction,
SKILLS
maintenance, and repair of systems used for refugia and research;
►
Refugia development
designing, conducting, and writing reports on scientific experiments with
these species (culture and reproduction of captive Devils River minnows
and survival, reproduction, and development of Comal Spring riffle beetle ► Experimental design
in captivity); and performing field work primarily in the San Marcos and
►
Field investigations
Comal Rivers involving ecological surveys, water quality measurements,
effect and abundance of parasites and exotic species, cataloging progress of ► Identification
protected species in the wild; and collection of threatened and endangered
species for research and the refugia. Mr. Gibson received an MS in
Zoology and B.S in Biology from Texas A&M University.
EDUCATION
A brief summary of Mr. Gibson’s relevant BIO-WEST experience is
presented below.
►
BIO-WEST PROJECT WORK
►
Edwards Aquifer Bio-Monitoring, Comal and San Marcos Rivers
♦ Senior Macroinvertebrate Biologist
This BIO-WEST project entails a multidiscipline, multiyear variable flow
and water-quality study for the Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA). This
program has been incorporated into the long-term Bio-Monitoring
associated with the Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program
(EARIP) Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). BIO-WEST is conducting
applied research and monitoring of several threatened and endangered
species in the spring-fed Comal and San Marcos Rivers in Texas. The HCP
Bio-Monitoring incorporates comprehensive sampling and flow-dependent
sampling that is conducted when the discharge in one or both of the rivers
falls below (low-flow) or rises above (high-flow) specified “trigger” levels.
Under contract with EAA. Mr. Gibson is in charge of all endangered
macroinvertebrate sampling involving cotton lures and drift netting over
spring orifices from.2001–present.
1
2000: MS Zoology, Texas A&M
University, College Station
1990: BS Biology, Texas A&M
BIO-WEST PROJECT WORK (cont.)
Applied Research – Edwards Aquifer Endangered Species ♦ Senior Macroinvertebrate Biologist
Mr. Gibson is providing guidance and technical support for the Low-Flow Food Source Applied Research
Study being contracted in 2013 to inform the development of the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation
Plan Ecological Model. The objective of this study was to use native Hyalella azteca from the Comal system
as a surrogate to evaluate “What will happen to invertebrate food sources for the fountain darter under
extreme low-flow conditions?” Under contract with the Edwards Aquifer Authority. 2013–present.
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Habitat and Population Evaluation ♦ Co-Principal Investigator
BIO-WEST conducted an intensive search effort for the endangered Comal Springs riffle beetle (Heterelmis
comalensis) and documented an extension of the known range of species in Comal Springs. Mr. Gibson
participated in field efforts that searched spring habitats along the Landa Lake shoreline (along spring-run
habitat) and in several locations where springs were evident within the lake to find populations of species
outside of the known range. Mr. Gibson performed quantitative measurements to examine the relative
densities of the Comal Springs riffle beetle and a similar riffle beetle species where populations of the
former were found. The range extension of this species was developed into a manuscript for submission to
a peer-reviewed journal. Under contract with EAA. 2001.
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Laboratory Studies ♦ Co-Principal Investigator
After the Comal Springs riffle beetle habitat and population evaluation, BIO-WEST raised questions about
responses to changes in springflow, both laterally and vertically, and studied concerns regarding changes in
the laboratory. Mr. Gibson was Co-Principal Investigator on laboratory studies and participated in project
development including narrowing study foci to address specific questions and assisting with designing the
laboratory setup. In this laboratory study, Comal Springs riffle beetles displayed a tendency for downward
movement through the substrate and a preference to be in, and move toward moving water (current).
When horizontal flow was applied to the block, the beetles were most commonly found towards the front.
When a vertical upwelling flow was applied to the bottom, most beetles were collected near or moved
toward the bottom. Therefore, it is feasible that these beetles would respond to decreased spring flows by
moving downward into the substrate in search of a flow stimulus. It is also likely that these beetles inhabit
areas deeper in the gravel and sediment than have previously been sampled. Under contract with EAA.
2002.
PUBLICATIONS
BIO-WEST. 2013. Comprehensive and critical period monitoring program to evaluate the effects of
variable flow on biological resources in the Comal Springs/River aquatic ecosystem. 2001–2012
Annual Reports. Prepared for Edwards Aquifer Authority.
Jean A., N. D. Telles, J. R. Gibson, D. Foley and K. B. Miller. 2012. Description of a New Genus and
Species of Stygobiontic Diving Beetle, Psychopomporus felipi Jean, Telles, and Miller (Coleoptera:
Dytiscidae: Hydroporinae), from the Edwards-Trinity Aquifer System of Texas, USA.
Phillips, C. T., J. R. Gibson, and J. N. Fries. 2011. Spawning behavior and nest association by Dionda
diabolic in the Devils River, Texas. Southwestern Naturalist 56:108-112.
2
PUBLICATIONS (cont.)
Kulkoyluoglu, O., R. Gibson, P. H. Diaz, and Jean-Paul Colin. 2011. Bicornucandona gen. nov.,sp. nov.
(Crustacea, Ostracoda) from Finegan Spring (Texas, U.S.A.). Zootaxa 3059:47-58.
Carson, E. W., A. H. Hanna, G. P. Garrett, J. R. Gibson, and J.R. Gold. 2010. Conservation genetics of
Cyprinid fishes (Genus Dionda) in southwestern North America. II. Expansion of the known range
of the Manantial roundnose minnow, Dionda argentosa. Southwestern Naturalists 55:576-581.
Fries, J. N., and J.R. Gibson. 2010. Critical thermal maxina of captive-bred Devils River minnows (Dionda
diabolic). Southwestern Naturalist 55:544-550.
Miller, K. B., J. R. Gibson, and Y. Alarie. 2009. North American Stygobiontic diving beetles (Coleoptera:
Dytiscidae: Hydroporinae) with description of Ereboporus naturaconservatus Miller, Gibson and Alarie,
new genus and species, from Texas, U.S.A. The Coleopterists Bulletin 63(2):191-202.
Phillips, C. T., J. R. Gibson, and J. N. Fries. 2009. Agonistic and Courtship Behavior in Dionda diaboli, the
Devils River Minnow. The Southwestern Naturalist 54(3):341-368.
Gibson J. R., S. J. Harden, and J. N. Fries. 2008. Survey and Distribution of Invertebrates from Selected
Springs of the Edwards Aquifer in Comal and Hays Counties, Texas. The Southwestern Naturalist
53(1):74-84.
Gibson, J. R. and J. N. Fries. 2005. Culture Studies of the Devils River Minnow. North American Journal
of Aquaculture 67:294-303.
Gibson, J. R., J. N. Fries, G.P. Garrett. 2004. Habitat and Substrate Use in Reproduction of Captive Devils
River Minnow. North American Journal of Aquaculture 66:42-47.
BIO-WEST. 2002. Comal Springs riffle beetle habitat and population evaluation. Prepared for Edwards
Aquifer Authority.
BIO-WEST. 2002. Comal Springs riffle beetle laboratory study: evaluation under variable flow conditions.
Final report prepared for Edwards Aquifer Authority, San Antonio, Texas.
3
BIO-WEST, Inc.
Edmund Oborny, Senior Fisheries Biologist
Mr. Oborny specializes in aquatic ecology, threatened and endangered
species, water quality, biological modeling, and instream flow issues and
concepts. He has 19 years of professional project experience, and is
familiar with all levels of project management and complex study design.
Mr. Oborny possesses technical expertise in fisheries biology, instream and
environmental flow, water quality, ichthyology, aquatic ecology, and
modeling. He has worked on many projects with endangered species
components in Texas and the southwestern United States; prepared
Environmental Impact Statements and other environmental documents;
and participated in freshwater and coastal monitoring programs, waterquality investigations, instream flow analyses, radio-telemetry studies, and
numerous other fishery- and water-related projects. Mr. Oborny has also
managed several large ecological- and water-resource projects; taken
courses in two-dimensional modeling with SMS, instream flow incremental
methodology (IFIM), physical-habitat simulation modeling, water-surface
profiling and floodplain analysis, and applied river geomorphology; and
used indicators of hydrologic alteration and range of variability approach to
assess ecological impacts associated with groundwater withdrawal on the
Comal and San Marcos Springs aquatic ecosystems. In addition, he has
used habitat suitability indices (HSI) and hydraulic modeling to evaluate
impacts/benefits to the aquatic habitat of riverine species/life stages and
HSI and habitat evaluation procedures to evaluate the impacts/benefits to
estuarine species with respect to changes in salinity. Mr. Oborny received
an MS in wildlife and fisheries sciences from Texas A&M University and a
BS in wildlife biology from Eastern New Mexico University.
A brief summary of Mr. Oborny’s relevant experience is presented below.
EXPERIENCE
►
instream flow analysis
►
project management
►
study design
►
SKILLS
►
►
►
►
►
►
This BIO-WEST project entails a multidiscipline, multiyear variable flow
and water-quality study for the Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA). This
program has been incorporated into the long-term Bio-Monitoring
associated with the Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program
(EARIP) Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). BIO-WEST is conducting
applied research and monitoring of several threatened and endangered
species in the spring-fed Comal and San Marcos Rivers in Texas. The HCP
Bio-Monitoring incorporates comprehensive sampling and flow-dependent
sampling that is conducted when the discharge in one or both of the rivers
falls below (low-flow) or rises above (high-flow) specified “trigger” levels.
The overall study objectives are to (1) track habitat usage and population
dynamics over time, (2) evaluate effects to habitat and species during
drought and following flooding, and (3) to evaluate the effectiveness of
1
two-dimensional hydraulic
modeling
instream flow habitat modeling
(PHABSIM, MesoHABSIM,
and HSI)
PROFESSIONAL
SOCIETIES
BIO-WEST PROJECT WORK
Edwards Aquifer Bio-Monitoring, Comal and San Marcos Rivers
♦ Project Manager/Principal Aquatic Resources Investigator
freshwater and coastal
monitoring
2003–2013: Desert Fishes
Council
2000–2010: Texas Rivers
and Reservoirs Management
Society
2000–2013: American Fisheries
Society
2007–2010: Ecological Society
of America
EDUCATION
►
►
1993: MS wildlife and fisheries
sciences (fisheries), Texas A&M
1991: BS wildlife biology,
Eastern New Mexico
University, Portales
implemented HCP measures. Under contract with EAA. Mr. Oborny manages and informs all aspects of
this project. 2001–present.
Applied Research – Edwards Aquifer Endangered Species ♦ Project Manager/Principal Investigator
Mr. Oborny is project manager and Co-Principal Investigator on four Applied Research Studies being
contracted in 2013 to inform the development of the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan
Ecological Model:
• Laboratory verses Field - the objective of this study was to compare growth of aquatic
vegetation in the field versus the laboratory while grown under similar environmental conditions.
• Vegetation Tolerance Trials - Objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of low-flow
conditions on aquatic vegetation survival and growth.
• Bicarbonate Utilization Potential - pH Drift Study - Objectives of this study were to determine
which aquatic plant species are capable of HCO3 utilization.
• Low-flow Food Source Study - The objective of this study was to use native Hyalella azteca from
the Comal system as a surrogate to evaluate “What will happen to invertebrate food sources for
the fountain darter under extreme low-flow conditions?”
Under contract with the Edwards Aquifer Authority. 2013–present.
Ecological Modeling – Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan ♦ Project Principal
Mr. Oborny is project principal and is working with scientists from the University of Texas, Texas A&M
University, Baylor University, Texas State University, and the USACE Environmental Laboratory to develop
an ecological model for the endangered species of the Comal and San Marcos Springs ecosystems. The
objective of the predictive ecological model for the Comal and San Marcos ecosystem project is to adapt
existing models for aquatic vegetation and fountain darters and begin the development of models for Texas
wild-rice and gill parasites impacts. Under contract with the Edwards Aquifer Authority. 2013–present.
San Antonio River Authority Instream Flow Planning Project ♦ Project Manager/Lead Biologist
Mr. Oborny is participating in instream flow planning activities at the San Antonio River Basin in Texas.
Project activities have included completing an instream flow evaluation of the Salatrillo/Martinez Creeks
watershed in northern Bexar County and completing a detailed instream flow assessment of the Lower San
Antonio River in conjunction with the Texas Instream Flow Program (TIFP). Presently, BIO-WEST is
working with the San Antonio River Authority on follow-up monitoring and applied research investigations
involving seasonal use of habitat by indicator fish species and riparian zone research to examine the effects
of lower San Antonio River pulse flows. Under contract with the San Antonio River Authority. 2006–
present.
Lower Guadalupe River Instream Flow Study, Guadalupe River ♦ Project Manager/
Principal Investigator
Mr. Oborny is leading a full-scale instream flow study for the Gonzales reach of the lower Guadalupe River
in conjunction with Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority staff and interaction with the TIFP. The study
objective is to characterize the flow-habitat and flow-ecological relationships in this reach to provide a
means of assessing biological impacts/benefits of various flow regimes relative to the Mid-Basin and future
projects. A comprehensive ecologically based tool generated from existing studies and field-gathered data
2
will provide prediction capabilities necessary to evaluate a full flow regime on ecological components of the
lower Guadalupe River within this reach. Under contract with the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.
2012–present.
Blue Sucker Tracking Study, Lower Sabine River ♦ Project Principal
Mr. Oborny is project principal for a radio-telemetry study of the blue sucker (Cycleptus elongatus), which is
listed as a state-threatened species. BIO-WEST is working with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
(TPWD) fisheries biologists to characterize seasonal movements and habitat use of the blue sucker in the
lower Sabine River through radio telemetry. The primary objectives of the study are to determine spawning
locations by locating sexually mature adults, track movements during different seasons, and determine
differential habitat use among varying life stages. Under contract with TPWD. 2012–present.
Native Aquatic Vegetation Restoration, Comal Springs ♦ Project Principal/Principal Investigator
The EARIP process led to the development of the approved HCP for the Comal Springs and Comal River
system (Comal system) in New Braunfels, Texas. In relation to the Comal system, the EARIP process and
HCP identify a variety of options to improve and increase habitat for Federally listed threatened and
endangered species. Native aquatic vegetation restoration is a critical HCP measure being implemented in
2013. Mr. Oborny is leading a project team with the overall goal to improve habitat conditions for the
fountain darter (Etheostoma fonticola) in Landa Lake and the Old Channel. This goal will be achieved by
increasing the amount of usable habitat and improving the quality of existing habitat in both project areas.
Under contract with City of New Braunfels. 2013–present.
Gill Parasite Evaluation, Comal Springs ♦ Project Principal
As part of the EARIP HCP, a comprehensive gill parasite evaluation of the Comal River is being conducted
by BIO-WEST. Mr. Oborny is project principal overseeing work that includes a system-wide survey to
determine Melanoides tuberculatus (nonnative host snail) population densities and cercarial concentrations of
Centrocestus formosanus (gill parasite). Additionally, methods for the reduction of the gill parasite in the Comal
system are being tested for effectiveness and efficiency. Finally, a gill parasite monitoring and reduction
program (if necessary) will be developed for implementation in subsequent years. Under contract with City
of New Braunfels. 2013–present.
Gill Parasite Evaluation Pilot Study ♦ Project Manager
BIO-WEST conducted a pilot study to evaluate the effectiveness of host snail removal on the reduction of
Centrocestus formosanus (gill parasite) in the Comal Springs system, New Braunfels, Texas. Mr. Oborny
oversaw all aspects of project work. Under contract with the EARIP. 2010–2011.
Trinity River Instream Flow Assistance, Trinity River ♦ Project Manager/Principal Investigator
Mr. Oborny is providing technical guidance to the Trinity River Authority (TRA) regarding instream flow
activities they are conducting on the middle Trinity River. In conjunction with TRA staff and interaction
with the TIFP, the study objective is to characterize the flow-habitat and flow-ecological relationships in this
reach of the river to provide a means of assessing biological impacts/benefits of various flow regimes
relative to existing conditions and future projects. Under contract with the TRA. 2012–present.
3
Brazos River Instream Flow Assistance, Brazos River Basin ♦ Project Manager/Principal Investigator
Mr. Oborny is project principal for instream flow planning and field activities associated with the Brazos
River Authority Water Management Plan. This includes activities on the main stem and tributaries of the
Brazos River throughout the basin and on streams throughout the Little River watershed. In conjunction
with Brazos River Authority staff, BIO-WEST is conducting fish, macroinvertebrate, mussel, and riparian
investigations in a manner consistent with TIFP activities. Under contract with the RPS Espey Consultants.
2011–present.
Lower Colorado River Authority Unappropriated Flows Permit ♦ Project Manager
BIO-WEST provided technical assistance for the Lower Colorado River Authority’s (LCRA)
unappropriated flows permit application. The permit applied to waters in Austin, Texas. Under contract
with Espey Consultants, Inc. 2008–2010.
Owens Lake Groundwater Evaluation ♦ Project Manager
Under an agreement with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Mr. Oborny is providing
technical oversight as part of a blue ribbon science panel relative to the Owens Lake Groundwater Project.
The purpose of the project is to evaluate the feasibility of plans to supply groundwater for dust control
measures by analyzing hydrology, hydrogeology, geology, existing natural resources that depend on
groundwater, possible impacts from groundwater withdrawals on these resources, and proposed methods to
avoid or mitigate such impacts. Under contract with MWH Americas, Inc. 2009–present.
Lower Sabine River Fish Study ♦ Project Manager
BIO-WEST provided fisheries consulting services to the Sabine River Authorities of Texas and Louisiana in
connection with the Toledo Bend Relicensing Project. The project area consisted of the Sabine River, which
forms the boundary between the states of Texas and Louisiana, from Toledo Bend Dam to River Mile 64
downstream. The study objective was to provide a comprehensive review of the existing fisheries
environment of the lower Sabine River downstream of Toledo Bend Dam and evaluate potential project
operational influence on that downstream environment. Under contract with HDR/DTA. 2009–2011.
Eastern Sierra Streams Peer Review ♦ Project Manager
Mr. Oborny conducted a third-party review of fisheries, benthic macroinvertebrate, and instream flow data
and reports dealing with Eastern Sierra stream conditions and management as well as provided an
independent review and prepared written documentation for and critiques of materials provided by the
client. The documentation summarized the results and rationale of BIO-WEST’s review of data and reports.
Specifically, Mr. Oborny provided comments on the recommendations for ongoing stream maintenance and
restoration efforts proposed by others. Under contract with MWH Americas, Inc. 2009–2010.
Texas Department of Transportation Spur 53 Highway Expansion ♦ Project Manager
BIO-WEST provided an analysis of stream modifications and associated habitats for the Spur 53 highway
expansion project for the Texas Department of Transportation in San Antonio, Texas. Under contract with
Zara Environmental, LLC. 2010.
4
BBASC Technical Support ♦ Project Manager
The Guadalupe, San Antonio, Mission, and Aransas Rivers and Mission, Copano, Aransas, and San Antonio
Bays Basin and Bay Area Stakeholders Committee (GSA BBASC), in fulfilling its charge under the Texas
Water Code, hired BIO-WEST to provide technical support to assist with evaluating recommendations of
the Basin and Bay Expert Science Team (GSA BBEST). Under contract with HDR Engineering, Inc. 2011.
Colorado River Flow Relationships to Aquatic Habitat and State-Threatened Blue Sucker Species
♦ Project Manager
Mr. Oborny was the project manager for an instream flow study that (1) developed hydraulic modeling tools
and (2) determined habitat-use criteria for fish in the lower Colorado River, Texas, to assess potential
changes in habitat availability under various water-release strategies. The study involved sampling all life
stages of the state-threatened blue sucker including telemetry tracking of 30 tagged adults. Mr. Oborny
supervised all aspects of project work including meetings, presentations, data collection, hydraulic and
habitat modeling, sediment-transport and riparian analyses, and dissemination of results; oversaw model
evaluation and interpretation; and was instrumental in the development of instream flow criteria for the
lower Colorado River. Under contract with the LCRA. 2004–2008.
Matagorda Bay Health Evaluation ♦ Project Manager/Senior Fisheries Biologist
Mr. Oborny provided managerial and biological services for the habitat component of the Matagorda Bay
Health Evaluation (MBHE) that was conducted as part of the LCRA/San Antonio Water System (SAWS)
water project. The habitat component of the MBHE provided an assessment of existing habitat conditions
within the project area and allowed for the comparison of habitat conditions between different freshwater,
inflow scenarios through hydrodynamic salinity modeling. The habitat assessment generated a model in GIS
format based on a series of relationships between biota and the physical and chemical environment of
Matagorda Bay. Output from the habitat model was provided both in tabular form (detailing the aerial
extent of output) and in spatial form (with the potential to be integrated or correlated with other spatial
information and analyzed based on location of interest). Under contract with LCRA. 2004–2008.
Springs Ecological Evaluation and Mapping of Biological Resources, Nevada and Utah
♦ Project Principal
BIO-WEST conducted a comprehensive springs ecological evaluation of the Great Basin that focuses on
unique ecosystems and endemic species including seven Federally threatened or endangered species, two
Conservation Agreement species, a host of Federal species of concern, and state-sensitive species. BIOWEST used a variety of criteria to select and evaluate more than 100 systems of interest throughout a
geographical region where the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) proposed to develop
groundwater resources. Biological efforts focused on documenting and inventorying species present in the
unique spring system environment of east-central Nevada and west-central Utah. Ecological surveys
expanded knowledge of aquatic and riparian vegetation, fish, amphibians, and macroinvertebrates and
identified potential disturbance factors, as well as restoration opportunities. BIO-WEST’s surveys also
expanded the range of several species, may have identified two new species of macroinvertebrates, and
uncovered a population of dace (Leuciscus spp.) that was thought to have been extirpated by the late 1990s.
Mr. Oborny was tasked with overseeing the project. Under contract with SNWA. 2004–2011.
5
Waterfowl/Wildlife Comprehensive Study and Long-Term Monitoring ♦ Project Principal
BIO-WEST participated in a comprehensive assessment of potential impacts/benefits to waterfowl and
wildlife in south-central Texas for the LCRA/SAWS water supply project (WSP). A regional concern was
raised regarding potential impacts to the local economies of Colorado, Wharton, and Matagorda Counties
from wildlife (primarily waterfowl) changes associated with the WSP. Anticipated decreases in rice
production—with or without the WSP—would likely have had an impact on wildlife including waterfowl
populations, such as ducks and geese. BIO-WEST evaluated associated impacts/benefits to waterfowl
populations and developed alternatives to the WSP. BIO-WEST’s evaluation was accomplished by (1)
establishing existing conditions in respect to land use and wildlife utilization, (2) determining socioeconomic
contributions related to waterfowl and wildlife, (3) evaluating proposed off-channel storage facilities, and (4)
assessing WSP proposed agricultural strategies. Mr. Oborny served as project principal and oversaw the
project. Under contract with LCRA. 2007–2009.
Bernalillo to Alameda Bridge River Restoration ♦ Senior Fisheries Biologist
BIO-WEST was contracted to provide technical expertise to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation)
project team on several components of a multifaceted restoration effort on 10 miles of the middle Rio
Grande in New Mexico. Mr. Oborny’s responsibilities included assembling and presenting existing
southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) and Rio Grande silvery minnow (Hybognathus
amarus) data, evaluating methods for creating a two-dimensional model of existing conditions, reviewing
existing information on endangered species, and presenting potential benefits of creating a two-dimensional
model for quantifying hydraulic conditions and endangered species habitat at selected index sites. Under
contract with Reclamation. 2003–2005.
Provo River Flow Study ♦ Assistant Project Manager/Principal Aquatic Resources Investigator
This BIO-WEST study was designed to determine the effects of alternative flow regimes to the middle and
lower sections of the Provo River, Utah, and the remaining portions of its riparian corridor. The project area
encompassed approximately 30 miles of the Provo River and its riparian ecosystem from Jordanelle Dam to
Utah Lake. The objective of the project was to collect field data and develop modeling capabilities for use in
the characterization of flow-channel processes and flow-ecological relationships (within the Provo River and
its riverine ecosystem). The results of this study provided modeling and prediction capabilities necessary to
evaluate the effects of alternative flow regimes on ecological components (including the endangered June
sucker [Chasmistes liorus]) throughout the annual hydrologic cycle and helped predict how aquatic habitat and
recruitment of riparian vegetation would likely change over time. Mr. Oborny assisted with managing and
informing all project-related activities. Under contract with the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and
Conservation Commission. 2002–2004.
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Habitat and Population Evaluation ♦ Principal Investigator/
Project Manager
BIO-WEST conducted an intensive search effort for the endangered Comal Springs riffle beetle (Heterelmis
comalensis) and documented an extension of the known range of species in Comal Springs. Mr. Oborny
coordinated field crews of two to three biologists who searched spring habitats along the Landa Lake
shoreline (along spring-run habitat) and in several locations where springs were evident within the lake to
find populations of species outside of the known range. Mr. Oborny performed quantitative measurements
to examine the relative densities of the Comal Springs riffle beetle and a similar riffle beetle species where
6
populations of the former were found. The range extension of this species was developed into a manuscript
for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. Under contract with EAA. 2001.
Comal Springs Riffle Beetle and Fountain Darter Laboratory Studies ♦ Principal Investigator/
Project Manager
After the Comal Springs riffle beetle habitat and population evaluation, BIO-WEST raised questions about
responses to changes in springflow, both laterally and vertically, and studied concerns regarding changes in
the laboratory. Mr. Oborny managed laboratory studies and participated in project development including
narrowing study foci to address specific questions and assisting with designing the laboratory setup. BIOWEST also raised questions about the response of fountain darter reproduction to diel fluctuations in
temperature that are observed in the wild, but not addressed in previous laboratory studies. Mr. Oborny
worked closely with Dr. Tim Bonner of Southwest Texas State University, who was instrumental in earlier
studies, and other BIO-WEST personnel to develop the project, analyze results, and prepare a detailed
executive summary. Under contract with EAA. 2002.
Spring Lake Dam Reconstruction Effort ♦ Principal Investigator/Project Manager
BIO-WEST performed monitoring and manual displacement of threatened and endangered species that
were subject to potential impacts caused by reconstruction activities on a dam impounding Spring Lake on
the San Marcos River. Monitoring included surveying the endangered fountain darter and threatened San
Marcos salamander (Eurycea nana) and mapping Texas wild-rice (Zizania texana) populations. Fountain darter
and San Marcos salamander populations were displaced immediately prior to power-washing and rip-rap
placement. Periodic spot-checks and reconstruction monitoring efforts were conducted to ensure that
efforts were being made to limit impacts on these populations. Mr. Oborny was responsible for overall
project management. Under contract with Texas State University. 2001–2002.
Lake Sam Rayburn Aquatic Surveys ♦ Project Principal
This large-scale effort entailed providing technical assistance to a client who needed to gain understanding
of water, sediment, and fish-tissue chemistry; water and sediment toxicity; fish, wildlife, and aquatic-habitat
conditions; and implications of studies and proposed actions related to operations at a paper mill in east
Texas. Mr. Oborny conducted field sampling; analyzed water and sediment chemistry, water and sediment
toxicity, and fish and macroinvertebrate communities using the Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality methodology for Receiving Water Assessments and Use Attainability Analysis; and designed the
comprehensive sampling effort to evaluate fish and habitat conditions in the Angelina River, Sam Rayburn
Reservoir, and surrounding watersheds. Under contract with the Conservation Coalition. 2002–2005.
Texas Department of Transportation Mussel Surveys ♦ Project Manager
BIO-WEST conducted Phase 1 habitat surveys for rare and state-listed freshwater mussel species and
additional aquatic species at eight road crossings of perennial waters within the Texas Department of
Transportation San Antonio Region. The surveys included the area from 100 meters upstream of bridges
associated with waterway crossings to 300 meters downstream of the bridges. Mr. Oborny directed the
project. Under contract with TRC Environmental Corporation. 2010.
7
Sabine Lake Marsh Sampling and Salinity Characterization ♦ Project Manager
BIO-WEST provided technical services to assist the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) with an evaluation
of salinity conditions and marsh vegetation within and adjacent to Sabine Lake in Texas. The study was
designed to document salinity conditions and resulting marsh vegetation types spatially within the complex
marshes on the eastern side of Sabine Lake. An evaluation of salinity changes and gradients under differing
freshwater inflow conditions was also conducted. Data collected during this effort provided a solid baseline
to build on should additional resources become available and data on marsh biomass and/or juvenile
organism utilization of these habitats be desired. Under contract with the NWF. Mr. Oborny provided
project oversight and direction. 2010–2011.
OFFICES AND APPOINTMENTS
Texas Environmental Flows Science Advisory Committee ♦ Advisory Committee Member
Serves on the Texas Environmental Flows Science Advisory Committee, which is appointed by the Texas
Environmental Flows Advisory Group of the Texas State Legislature. Responsible for providing objective,
scientific advice on issues relating to the science of environmental flow protection, as well as developing
recommendations that will ensure consistent use of flow methodologies and environmental flow programs.
2009–present.
Third-Party Independent Review of Mono Basin Stream Ecosystem Flows Recommendations
♦ Instream Flows Science Expert
Mr. Oborny was selected, along with three other nationally recognized instream flow experts, to conduct an
independent, third-party review of 12 years of fisheries, geomorphology, and riparian monitoring conducted
in the Mono Basin, California, for the establishment of instream flow recommendations. 2009.
Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program ♦ Science Subcommittee Member
Appointed by the EARIP Steering Committee to be a voting member of the Science Subcommittee, which
is responsible for addressing science-based questions/charges set forth by the Texas Legislature. Charges
focus on the determination of flow requirements for Federally listed endangered and threatened species of
the Edwards Aquifer and Comal and San Marcos Springs. 2008–2011.
Southern Edwards Aquifer Species Recovery Team ♦ Team Member
Appointed by the Regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to be part of the
Southern Edwards Aquifer Species Recovery Team. The objective of the team is to update and revise a
Recovery Plan for seven Federally listed endangered species and one Federally listed threatened species in
the Comal and San Marcos Springs ecosystems and in Edwards Aquifer. 2008–present.
The Biological Working Group of Spring Valley, Nevada ♦ Special Consultant
Retained to assist with (1) developing a multiyear, multifaceted monitoring plan to further the understanding
of groundwater-influenced ecosystem dynamics and (2) tracking biotic-community responses to SNWA’s
groundwater withdrawal from the Spring Valley Hydrographic Basin in east-central Nevada. The monitoring
plan was the result of a stipulated agreement between SNWA and four U.S. Department of the Interior
bureaus: the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Land Management, USFWS, and the National Park
Service. 2007–present.
8
OFFICES AND APPOINTMENTS (cont.)
The Blue Ribbon Science Advisory Panel of Owens Valley, California ♦ Panel Member
(Aquatic Resources)
Appointed to the Blue Ribbon Science Advisory Panel to analyze hydrology, hydrogeology, geology, and
existing natural resources that depend on groundwater within Owens Valley, California, relative to proposed
projects. The panel will perform an assessment of possible impacts from groundwater withdrawals on
resources and evaluate proposed methods to avoid or mitigate impacts. 2009–present.
PUBLICATIONS / PRESENTATIONS
Johnson, M.S., A. Bolick, M. Alexander, D. Huffman, E.L. Oborny, and A. Monroe. 2012. Fluctuations in
densities of the invasive parasite Centrocestus formosanus (Trematoda: Heterophyidae) in the Comal
River, Comal County, Texas, U.S.A. Journal of Parasitology 98(1):111–116.
McDonald, D.L., T.H. Bonner, E.L. Oborny, and T.M. Brandt. 2007. Effects of fluctuating temperatures
and gill parasites on reproduction of the fountain darter, Etheostoma fonticola. Journal of Freshwater
Ecology 22(2):311–318.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2013. Comprehensive and critical period monitoring program to evaluate
the effects of variable flow on biological resources in the Comal Springs/River aquatic ecosystem.
2001–2012 Annual Reports. Prepared for Edwards Aquifer Authority.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2013. Comprehensive and critical period monitoring program to evaluate
the effects of variable flow on biological resources in the San Marcos Springs/River aquatic
ecosystem. 2001–2012 Annual Reports. Prepared for Edwards Aquifer Authority.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2011. Instream flow study of the lower San Antonio River and lower
Cibolo Creek. interim progress report and instream flow recommendations. Texas Instream Flow
Program and San Antonio River Authority.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2008. Colorado River flow relationships to aquatic habitat and state
threatened species: blue sucker - instream flow guidelines. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River
Authority and San Antonio Water System.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [Matagorda Bay Health Evaluation Scientists]. 2008. Matagorda Bay inflow criteria.
Matagorada Bay health evaluation: final report. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River Authority
and San Antonio Water System.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2008. Preliminary instream flow assessment for the Lower San Antonio
River (interim subsistence and base-dry instream flow guidelines development). Prepared for the San
Antonio River Authority.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2008. Salatrillo and Martinez Creeks instream flow assessment. Prepared
for the San Antonio River Authority.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2007. Variable flow study: seven years of monitoring and applied
research. Comprehensive and critical period monitoring program to evaluate the effects of variable
flow on biological resources in the Comal Springs/River aquatic ecosystem. Prepared for Edwards
Aquifer Authority.
PUBLICATIONS / PRESENTATIONS (cont.)
threatened species: blue sucker - 2006 data activities report. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2006. Matagorda Bay health evaluation habitat assessment: 2006 progress
report. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River Authority and San Antonio Water System.
threatened species: blue sucker - 2005 data activities report. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2005. Matagorda Bay health evaluation habitat assessment: progress
report. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River Authority and San Antonio Water System.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2003. Provo River flow study, Deer Creek Reservoir to Utah Lake: flowhabitat and flow-ecological relationships within the riverine ecosystem - aquatic habitat, riparian
vegetation, recreational uses, fluvial processes. Prepared for the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and
Conservation Commission, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2003. Provo River flow study, Jordanelle to Deer Creek: flow-habitat and
flow-ecological relationships within the riverine ecosystem - aquatic habitat, riparian vegetation,
recreational uses, fluvial processes. Prepared for the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conservation
Commission, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2002. Comal Springs riffle beetle habitat and population evaluation.
Prepared for Edwards Aquifer Authority.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2002. Comal Springs riffle beetle laboratory study: evaluation under
variable flow conditions. Final report prepared for Edwards Aquifer Authority, San Antonio, Texas.
Oborny, E.L., et al. [BIO-WEST]. 2002. Fountain darter laboratory study: reproductive response to
parasites and temperature fluctuations. Executive summary prepared for Edwards Aquifer
Authority, San Antonio, Texas.
Oborny, E.L. 2003. LCRA/SAWS water project specific study plan: Colorado River flow relationships to
aquatic habitat. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Oborny, E.L. 2003. LCRA/SAWS water project specific study plan - state threatened species: blue sucker.
Prepared for the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Oborny, E.L. 2001. Environmental and ecological data gaps analysis for future projects along the Lower
Colorado River: general overview.
Oborny, E.L. 1999. Environmental studies recommendations associated with future projects on the Lower
Colorado River. Prepared for the Lower Colorado River Authority, Job. No. 449637.
Oborny, E.L. 1997. Evaluation of fish assemblages in the Houston Bayou System. In papers presented at
the 14th Annual Gulf Coast Environmental Management Symposium, Pasadena, Texas.
10
PUBLICATIONS / PRESENTATIONS (cont.)
Oborny, E.L., and B. Gearhart. 2000. Underwater remote-sensing survey and biological sampling: channel
to Smith Point, Galveston Bay, Texas. Prepared for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Galveston
District, Document No. 000081.
Oborny, E.L., and P. Jensen. 1999. Thermal effects assessment: Bastrop Reservoir. Prepared for GenTex
Power Corporation, Document No. 990923.
SPECIAL TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION
2009
Stream Temperature Modeling - IF 312, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Mid-continent
Ecological Science Center
2003
Two-Dimensional Hydraulic Modeling of Complex Waterways with SMS Training
2000
Applied River Geomorphology and Biotechnical Engineering for Fisheries Biologists,
American Fisheries Society
1998
Using the Computer Based Physical Habitat Simulation System - IF 310, USGS Midcontinent Ecological Science Center
1997
Theory and Concepts of the IFIM - IF 250, USGS Biological Resources Division
1997
Water Surface Profiling and Floodplain Analysis Seminar featuring HEC-RAS
(Haestad Methods)
1996
GIS, Internet, and Fish & Wildlife Microcomputer Applications Course,
American Fisheries Society
1994–1999
Mine, Safety, and Health Administration Training Certificate
1989
PADI Open Water SCUBA Diver Certification
11
Weston Hugh Nowlin
Texas State University
601 University Drive
Department of Biology
Aquatic Station
San Marcos, TX, USA
Office: 512-245-8794
Fax: 512-245-7919
[email protected]
http://nowlinaquatecollab.wp.txstate.edu/
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Current Position and Educational History
Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos,
Texas
September 2011 – Present
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos,
Texas
September 2005 – September 2011
Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Department of Zoology, Miami University,
Oxford, Ohio
January 2004 – August 2005
Advisor – Michael J. Vanni
Ph.D., Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia
December 2003
Advisor – Asit Mazumder
Master of Science, Biology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas
December 1998
Advisor – Ray W. Drenner
Bachelor of Arts, Biology, Austin College, Sherman, Texas
May 1996
Advisor – Peter Schulze
Research Interests
Ecosystem and Community Ecology
Aquatic Ecology (wetlands, lakes, reservoirs)
Biogeochemistry
Ecotoxicology
Weston Hugh Nowlin – Curriculum Vitae 1
Articles in Peer-Reviewed Journals
*, †, ‡ and § denote PhD, Masters, undergraduates, and technicians in my lab,
respectively
Datri, CW†, CL Pray†, Y Zhang, and WH Nowlin. Accepted pending revision
(Revisions submitted). Nutrient enrichment exhibits little influence in
mediating ecosystem impacts of a non-native herbivore in a spring-fed
river. Freshwater Biology.
Diaz, PH†, JN Fries, TH Bonner, MA Alexander, and WH Nowlin. Accepted
pending revision (Revisions submitted). Mesohabitat associations of the
threatened San Marcos salamander (Eurycea nana) across its geographic
range. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems.
Hutchins, BT, BF Schwartz, and WH Nowlin. 2014. Morphological and trophic
specialization in a subterranean amphipod assemblage. Freshwater
Biology. Early online only.
Diaz, PH†, MR Forstner, M Forstner, and WH Nowlin. In press. Survey of
aquatic macroinvertebrates in a National Wetland are in Bastrop County,
Texas. Texas Journal of Science.
Becker, JC*, KJ Rodibaugh†, BJ Labay, TH Bonner, Y Zhang, and WH Nowlin.
2014. Physiographic gradients determine nutrient concentrations more
than land use in a Gulf Slope (USA) river system. Freshwater Science.
33:731-744.
Brown, DJ, WH Nowlin, E Ozel, I Mali, D Episcopo, MC Jones, MR Forstner.
2013. Comparison of short term low, moderate, and high severity fire
impacts to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem components of a southern
USA mixed pine/hardwood forest. Forest Ecology and Management.
312:179-192.
Capps, KA, CL Atkinson, A Rugetski, C Baxter, KS Boersma, CC Carey, PB
McIntyre, JW Moore, WH Nowlin, and CC Vaughn. 2012. Organized
oral session: Impacts of species addition and species loss on ecosystem
function in freshwater systems. Bulletin of the Ecological Society of
America. 93:402-408.
Jones, TA, MM Chumchal, RW Drenner, GN Timmins§, and WH Nowlin. 2012.
Bottom-up nutrient and top-down fish impacts on contaminant flux from
aquatic ecosystems. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 32:1-7.
Brown, DR, B DeVolld, WH Nowlin, and M Forstner. 2012. Ants in Houston
toad habitat: annual activity and responses to canopy cover and fire.
Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management. 3:870-876.
Scott, SE, CL Pray†, WH Nowlin, and Y Zhang. 2012. Effects of native and
introduced consumers on stream ecosystem function. Aquatic Sciences.
74:793-808.
Henderson, BL, MM Chumchal, RW Drenner, PH Diaz†, and WH Nowlin. 2012.
Mercury contamination of macroinvertebrates from grassland ponds with
and without fish. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 31:870-876.
Becker, JC*, AW Groeger, WH Nowlin, MM Chumchal, and D Hahn. 2011.
Spatial variability in the speciation and bioaccumulation of mercury in an
arid subtropical reservoir ecosystem. Environmental Toxicology and
Chemistry. 30:2300-2311.
Pound, KL, TH Bonner, WH Nowlin, and DG Huffman. 2011. Trophic ecology
of a nonnative population of suckermouth catfishes (Hypostomus) in a
central Texas spring-fed stream. Environmental Biology of Fishes.
90:277-285.
Davies, JM, WH Nowlin, B Matthews, and A Mazumder. 2010. Temporal
discontinuity of nutrient limitation in plankton communities. Aquatic
Sciences. 72:393-402.
Smith, A†, A Abuzeineh*, MM Chumchal, TH Bonner, and WH Nowlin. 2010.
Mercury contamination of the fish community of a semi-arid and arid river
system: Spatial variation and the influence of environmental gradients.
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 29:1762-1772.
Caston CB†, WH Nowlin, A Gaulke, and MJ Vanni. 2009. The relative
importance of heterotrophic bacteria to pelagic ecosystem dynamics varies
with reservoir trophic state. 2009. Limnology and Oceanography
54:2143-2156.
Pray, CL*, WH Nowlin, and MJ Vanni. 2009. Deposition and decomposition of
periodical cicadas (Homoptera: Cicadidae) in woodland aquatic systems.
Journal of the North American Benthological Society 28:181-195.
Nowlin, WH, MJ Vanni and LH Yang. 2008. Comparing resource
pulses in aquatic and terrestrial systems. Ecology 89:647-659.
Nowlin, WH, MJ González, MHH Stevens, MJ Vanni, MW Fields and JJ Valente.
2007. Allochthonous subsidy of periodical cicadas affects dynamics and
stability of pond communities. Ecology 88:2174-2186.
Nowlin, WH, J-M Davies and A Mazumder. 2007. Planktonic phosphorus
pool sizes and cycling efficiency in coastal and interior British Columbia
lakes. Freshwater Biology 52: 860-877.
Nowlin, WH, RW Drenner, KR Guckenberger, M Lauden, T Alonso, JE Fennell
and JL Smith. 2006. Gape limitation, prey size refuges and the top-down
impacts of piscivorous largemouth bass in shallow pond ecosystems.
Hydrobiologia 563: 357-369.
Chumchal, M, WH Nowlin, RW Drenner and S Mann. 2005. Biomassdependent effects of common carp on water quality in shallow ponds.
Hydrobiologia 545: 271-277.
Nowlin, WH, JL Evarts and MJ Vanni. 2005. Release rates and potential
fates of nitrogen and phosphorus from sediments in a eutrophic reservoir.
Freshwater Biology 50: 301-322.
Davies, J-M, WH Nowlin and A Mazumder. 2004. Temporal changes in
nitrogen and phosphorus co-deficiency in plankton in lakes of coastal and
interior British Columbia. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic
Sciences 61: 1538-1551.
Nowlin, WH, J-M Davies, RN Nordin and A Mazumder. 2004. Effects of
water level fluctuation and short-term climate variation on thermal and
stratification regimes of a British Columbia reservoir and lake. Lake and
Reservoir Management 20: 91-109.
Davies, J-M, WH Nowlin and A Mazumder. 2004. Variation in temporal [14C]
plankton photosynthesis among warm monomictic lakes of coastal British
Columbia. Journal of Plankton Research 26: 763-778.
Nowlin, WH, and RW Drenner. 2000. Context-dependent effects of bluegill on
experimental mesocosm communities. Oecologia 122: 421-426.
Technical Publications
Spafard, MA, WH Nowlin, J-M Davies and A Mazumder. 2002. A
morphometric atlas of selected lakes in southern British Columbia:
Vancouver Island, Saltspring Island and the Kooteney region. National
Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Industrial
Research Chair Program, Environmental Management of Drinking Water,
University of Victoria.
Pending External Funding Support (amounts in US$D)
Lakes as sentinels of climate change. National Science Foundation –
Macrosystem Biology. $6,496,792
Awarded External Funding Support (amounts in US$D)
Plastron Efficiency of the Comal Springs Riffle Beetle. WH Nowlin, B Schwartz,
T Hardy, and R Gibson. Edwards Aquifer Authority – Habitat Conservation Plan.
Received May 2014. $48,000
Upper San Marcos River Watershed Protection Plan. WH Nowlin and B
Schwartz. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality/United States
Environmental Protection Agency 319(h) Grant. Received January 2013.
$30,000
Establishment of the Upper San Marcos River Observing System. B Schwartz
(PI), WH Nowlin (PI), TH Bonner (Co-PI), T Hardy (Co-PI), and A Sansom (CoPI). Exceptional Line Item in the State of Texas Budget (2009 – 2011). Received
February 2010. $1,200,000
Ecological Values and Ecosystem Services of Watersheds in the Lower Rio
Grande River. TH Bonner (PI), WH Nowlin (Co-PI), and T Hardy (Co-PI).
United States Department of Agriculture (Sustainable Agricultural Water
Conservation in the Rio Grande Project). Received July 2009. $85,000
Effects of Invasive Species on the Biogeochemistry of Hyporheic Water from
Sandbars: A Comparison Restored and Unrestored Areas in Big Bend National
Park. WH Nowlin (PI), K Urbanczyk (Co-PI), and J Bennett (Co-PI). United
States Department of Agriculture (Sustainable Agricultural Water Conservation in
the Rio Grande Project). Received July 2009. $37,843
Spring Lake Nutrient Sources Identification and Nutrient Management Plan. WH
Nowlin (PI), B Schwartz (Co-PI), and A Sansom (Co-PI). Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality/United States Environmental Protection Agency 319(h)
Grant. Received March 2009. $293,689
Project Flowing Waters. J Westerlund (PI), T. Bonner (Co-PI), WH Nowlin (CoPI), R. Earl (Co-PI), and P. Guettner (Co-PI). National Science Foundation:
Graduate Teaching Fellows in K-12 Education (GK-12). Received January 2008.
$2,320,660
Building adaptive capacity and the ecological values of watersheds of the Lower
Brazos River Basin – TH Bonner (PI), WH Nowlin (Co-PI), Y Zhang (Co-PI) and
V Lopes (Co-PI) in cooperation with The Nature Conservancy of Texas. The
Houston Foundation. Received January 2008. $600,000
Bigclaw River Shrimp in San Marcos River: Invasive Species’ Impact. Y Zhang
(PI) and WH Nowlin (Co-PI). Texas Parks and Wildlife State Wildlife Grant
Program. Received October 2007. $68, 640
Trophic ecology and habitat associations of the threatened San Marcos
salamander (Eurycea nana) – WH Nowlin (PI), JN Fries (Co-PI) and ML
Alexander (Co-PI). United States Geological Survey. Received May 2007.
$25,844
Sources and pathways of energy and nutrients supporting the Rio Grande biotic
community - WH Nowlin (PI) and TH Bonner (Co-PI). United States Department
of Agriculture (Sustainable Agricultural Water Conservation in the Rio Grande
Project). Received March 2006. $90,404
Reproductive Ecology and Culture Techniques of the Devil’s River Minnow WH Nowlin (Single PI). United States Fish and Wildlife Service Cooperative
Agreement. Received June 2006. $8,000
Invasion of Suckermouth Catfish in the San Marcos River Ecosystem – WH
Nowlin (PI) and TH Bonner (Co-PI). United States Fish and Wildlife Service,
Collaborative Conservation Project Award Initiative (CCPAI). Received March
2006. $5,000
Awarded Internal Funding Support
Transfer of Mercury and Methylmercury Across Ecosystem Boundaries in Arid
River Landscapes - WH Nowlin (Single PI). Texas State University Research
Enhancement Program. Received December 2007. $7,984
Ecosystem engineering and nutrient cycling effects of native and exotic species in
the San Marcos River ecosystem - Y Zhang (PI) and WH Nowlin (Co-PI). Texas
State University Research Enhancement Program Grant. Received December
2006. $16,000
The Relative Importance of Bacteria and Algae in Reservoir Carbon Cycling –
WH Nowlin (Single PI). Texas State University Research Enhancement Program
Grant. Received December 2005. $6, 940
Presentations at Professional Meetings
*, †, and ‡ denote PhD, Masters, and undergraduate students in my lab, respectively
Becker, JC*, WH Nowlin, and D Hahn. 2013. Biogeography and ecosystem
function of major aquatic bacterial groups in a Gulf Slope (TX) river system.
Texas Academy of Science. Kerrville Texas.
Swink, AP†, WH Nowlin, and BF Schwartz. 2013. Storm mediated changes in
nitrogen and phosphorus uptake length in a spring fed river. Texas Academy of
Science. Kerrville Texas.
Swink, AP†, WH Nowlin, and BF Schwartz. 2013. Storm-mediated changes in
phosphorus uptake in a spring fed river. Annual Great Plains Limnology
Conference. Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Becker, JC*, WH Nowlin, and D Hahn. 2012. Spatial patterns in microbial
diversity in a large river system. Annual Great Plains Limnology Conference.
Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Rodibaugh, KJ†, WH Nowlin and JC Becker*. 2012. Bacterially Mediated
Carbon and Nutrient Dynamics in a Highly Impacted River System. Annual Great
Plains Limnology Conference. Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Nowlin, WH, C LeBeouf†, S Scott, CL Pray†, and Y Zhang. 2012. Invasion
potential and ecosystem-level impacts of non-native fishes in a riverine system.
Ecological Society of America. Portland, Oregon. (Invited talk part of a Special
Session).
Abuzeineh, AA*, JR Troy, MM Chumchal, MC Green, and WH Nowlin. 2012.
Transfer of mercury across ecosystem boundaries in arid streams. Ecological
Society of America. Portland, Oregon.
Nowlin, WH, CL Pray†, SE Scott, CM LeBoeuf†, KL Pound and Y Zhang. 2012.
Ecosystem-level consequences of the addition of invasive suckermouth catfish
(Loricariidae) to riverine ecosystems. Society for Freshwater Science.
Louisville, Kentucky. (Invited talk part of a Special Session)
Becker, JC*, WH Nowlin BJ Labay, and KJ Rodibaugh†. 2012. Influence of
land-use and physiography on nutrient concentration in a large river system.
Society for Freshwater Science. Louisville, Kentucky.
Chumchal, MM, TA Jones, RW Drenner, WH Nowlin, and GN Timmins§. 2012.
Bottom-up nutrient and top-down fish impacts on contaminant flux from aquatic
ecosystems. Society for Freshwater Science. Louisville, Kentucky.
Abuzeineh, AA*, JR Troy, MM Chumchal, MC Green, and WH Nowlin. 2011.
Transfer of mercury across ecosystem boundaries in arid streams. Society of
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. Boston, Massachusetts.
Becker, J.C. *, W.H. Nowlin, K.J. Rodibaugh†, and B.J. Labay. 2011. Influence
of land use at multiple spatial scales on nutrients and ecosystem function in a
large river system. 4th Oklahoma-Texas Aquatic Research Group and Great
Plains Limnological Conference. University of Oklahoma Biological Station,
Lake Texoma, Oklahoma.
Rodibaugh, K.J. †, W.H. Nowlin and J.C. Becker*. 2011. Bacterially mediated
carbon and nutrient dynamics in a highly impacted river system. 4th OklahomaTexas Aquatic Research Group and Great Plains Limnological Conference.
University of Oklahoma Biological Station, Lake Texoma, Oklahoma.
McMillan, S., TH Bonner, WH Nowlin, and JN Fries. 2011. Reproductive
ecology of two sympatric cyprinids in the Rio Grande basin, Texas. American
Fisheries Society. Seattle, Washington.
Hardy, T, W. Nowlin, B. Schwartz, and T. Bonner. 2011. San Marcos River
Observing System. American Fisheries Society. Seattle, Washington.
Hardy, T.B., W.H. Nowlin, B. Schwartz, and T. Bonner. 2011. San Marcos
Observing System: Integrating Physical, Chemical, and Biological Data at High
Resolution Spatial and Temporal Scales. American Fisheries Society. Seattle,
Washington.
Abuzeineh, A.A. *, W. H. Nowlin, A. Smith†, T. C. Heard, and T. H. Bonner.
2011. Organic matter sources supporting communities of an arid and semi-arid
riverine system: The lower Rio Grande drainage. Ecological Society of America,
Austin, Texas.
Henderson, B.L., M.M. Chumchal, R.W. Drenner, P. Diaz†, Y. Deng, and W.H.
Nowlin. 2011. Mercury contamination of macroinvertebrates from ponds with and
without fish. Ecological Society of America, Austin, Texas.
Nowlin. 2011. Effects of fish on mercury contamination of macroinvertebrate
communities of grassland ponds. Joint Meeting of the Oklahoma-Texas Aquatics
Research Group and the Great Plain’s Limnology Society, University of
Oklahoma Biological Station, Oklahoma.
without fish at the LBJ National Grassland, Texas. 10th International Conference
on Mercury as a Global Pollutant, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
without fish at the LBJ National Grassland, Texas. South Central Regional
Chapter of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Denton,
Texas.
Park, A. J., M.R. Sawey, M.M. Chumchal, R.W. Drenner, Y. Deng, and W.H.
Nowlin. 2011. Biomagnification of mercury within the macroinvertebrate
community of Caddo Lake. South Central Regional Chapter of the Society of
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Denton, Texas.
large river system. Ecological Society of America, Austin, TX.
Rodibaugh, K.J. †, W.H. Nowlin and J.C. Becker*. 2011. Bacterially Mediated
Carbon and Nutrient Dynamics in a Highly Impacted River System. Ecological
Society of America, Austin, TX.
Abuzeineh, A.A. *, W. H. Nowlin, A. Smith†, T. C. Heard, and T. H. Bonner.
2011. Organic matter sources supporting communities of an arid and semi-arid
riverine system: The lower Rio Grande drainage. Ecological Society of America,
Austin, Texas.
large river system. ASLO, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Rodibaugh, K.J. †, W.H. Nowlin and J.C. Becker*. 2011. Bacterially Mediated
Carbon and Nutrient Dynamics in a Highly Impacted River System. ASLO
Aquatic Science, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Bonner, T. H., J. F. Westerlund, W. H. Nowlin, and R. A. Earl. 2010. Graduate
training through Project Flowing Waters at Texas State University: quantifying
benefits to participating graduate students. NSF GK-12 Western Region Annual
Meeting. Denver, Colorado.
Nowlin, WH, J Westerlund, TH Bonner, and R Earl. 2010. Graduate training
through Project Flowing Waters: Challenges at Texas State University.
Ecological Society of America, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Lash, FP, Y Zhang, WH Nowlin, and TH Bonner. 2010. Impacts of land use in
the lower Brazos River on benthic macroinvertebrate diversity. Joint ASLO
(Advancing the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography) and North American
Benthological Society (NABS) Annual Meeting, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Nowlin, WH, CL Pray†, SE Scott, CM LeBoeuf†, KL Cohen, and Y Zhang.
2010. Ecosystem-level impacts of invasive suckermouth catfish (Loricariidae) on
a spring-influenced river. Joint ASLO (Advancing the Sciences of Limnology and
Oceanography) and North American Benthological Society (NABS) Annual
Meeting, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Henderson, BL, MM Chumchal, RW Drenner, PH Diaz†, Y Deng, and WH
Nowlin. 2010. Mercury contamination of macroinvertebrates from ponds with
and without fish at the LBJ National Grassland, Texas USA. Joint ASLO
(Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography) and North
American Benthological Society (NABS) Annual Meeting, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Becker, JC*, WH Nowlin, KJ Rodibaugh†, and BJ Labay. 2010. Spatial patterns
of nutrient concentration and ecosystem function in a western Gulf slope river
system. Joint ASLO (Association for the Sciences of Limnology and
Oceanography) and North American Benthological Society (NABS) Annual
Meeting, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
LeBoeuf, CM†, Y Zhang, and WH Nowlin. 2010. The effects of invasive species
and eutrophication on riverine nutrient dynamics. Southwestern Association of
Naturalists (SWAN) Annual Meeting, Junction, Texas.
Park, A, M Sawey, MM Chumchal, RW Drenner, Y Deng, J Wadlington, and WH
Nowlin. 2010. Spatial variation of Hg, 15N, and 13C in sediment and
macroinvertebrates in Caddo Lake. Texas Academy of Science Annual Meeting,
Stephenville, Texas.
BL Henderson, MM Chumchal, RW Drenner, PH Diaz†, Y Deng, and WH
Nowlin. 2010. Mercury concentration in macroinvertebrates from grassland
ponds with and without fish communities. Texas Academy of Science Annual
Meeting, Stephenville, Texas.
WH Nowlin, CL Pray†, SE Scott, CM LeBoeuf†, KL Cohen, TH Bonner, and Y
Zhang. 2010. Ecosystem-level impacts of invasive suckermouth catfish
(Loricariidae) on the San Marcos River, Texas. Texas Chapter of the American
Fisheries Society, Athens, Texas.
Smith, A†, WH Nowlin, M. Chumchal, and A Abuzeineh*. 2010. Mercury
contamination of the fish community of a semi-arid and arid river system: spatial
variation and the influence of environmental gradients. Texas Chapter of the
American Fisheries Society, Athens, Texas.
JC Becker*, AW Groeger, MM Chumchal, WH Nowlin, and D Hahn. 2010.
Spatial variability in the distribution and bioaccumulation of mercury in a
subtropical reservoir system. Texas Chapter of the American Fisheries Society,
Athens, Texas.
Becker, JC*, AW Groeger, MM Chumchal, and WH Nowlin. 2009. Distribution
and bioaccumulation of mercury in a subtropical reservoir system. Society for
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) – North America, 29th Annual
Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana.
Smith, A†, WH Nowlin, MM Chumchal, and A Abuzeineh*. 2009. Mercury
contamination of the Rio Grande fish community: influence of spatial variation
and food web structure. South Central Chapter of the Society of Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC Annual Meeting), San Marcos, Texas.
Nowlin, WH, CB Caston†, A Gaulke, and MJ Vanni. 2009. Stoichiometry and
limitation of bacteria and phytoplankton along a productivity gradient. ASLO
(Advancing the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography), Nice, France.
Westerlund, J.F., TH Bonner, WH Nowlin, and RA Earl. 2008. NSF GK-12:
Project Flowing Waters. North Central Association for Science Teacher
Education, (NC-ASTE), Winona, Minnesota.
and food web structure. Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry
(SETAC) – North America, 29th Annual Meeting, Tampa, Florida.
and food web structure. Oklahoma-Texas Aquatic Research Group/Great Plains
Limnology Conference, Kingston, Oklahoma.
Pray, CL†, SE Scott, WH Nowlin, and Y Zhang. 2008. Ecosystem engineering
effects of native and non-native consumers in a river ecosystem. Oklahoma-Texas
Aquatic Research Group/Great Plains Limnology Conference, Kingston,
Oklahoma.
Diaz, PH* and WH Nowlin. 2008. Influence of productivity, size, and
hydroperiod on aquatic macroinvertebrates in isolated wetlands. Oklahoma-Texas
Aquatic Research Group/Great Plains Limnology Conference, Kingston,
Oklahoma.
Caston, CB†, WH Nowlin, A Gaulke, and MJ Vanni. 2008. Nutrient cycling in
pelagic ecosystems: The relative importance of heterotrophic bacteria and
phytoplankton changes along a trophic gradient. Oklahoma-Texas Aquatic
Research Group/Great Plains Limnology Conference, Kingston, Oklahoma.
Becker, JC†, AW Groeger, MM Chumchal, and WH Nowlin. 2008. Distribution
and bioaccumulation of mercury in a subtropical reservoir system. OklahomaTexas Aquatic Research Group/Great Plains Limnology Conference, Kingston,
Oklahoma.
Nowlin, WH, CB Caston†, A Gaulke, and MJ Vanni. 2008. Stoichiometry and
nutrient limitation of bacterio- and phytoplankton across a reservoir productivity
gradient: implications for competition intensity. Oklahoma-Texas Aquatic
Research Group/Great Plains Limnology Conference, Kingston, Oklahoma.
and food web structure. South Central Chapter of the Society of Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry (SC-SETAC) Annual Meeting, Clear Lake, Texas.
Becker, JC†, AW Groeger, MM Chumchal, and WH Nowlin. 2008. Distribution
and bioaccumulation of mercury in a subtropical reservoir system. South Central
Chapter of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SC-SETAC)
Annual Meeting, Clear Lake, Texas.
Caston, CB† and WH Nowlin. 2007. Does the relative importance of bacteria in
reservoir nutrient cycling vary with productivity? Texas River and Reservoir
Management Society (TRRMS) and South Central Society of Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry (SC-SETAC), Nacogdoches, Texas.
Cohen, KL, TH Bonner, and WH Nowlin. 2007. Food habits of the nonindigenous suckermouth catfish in the San Marcos River, Texas: A concern for
spring endemics? American Fisheries Society, San Francisco California.
Cohen, KL, TH Bonner, and WH Nowlin. 2007. Food habits of the nonindigenous suckermouth catfish in the San Marcos River, Texas: a concern for
spring endemics? Texas Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, Lake
Jackson, Texas.
Nowlin, WH, A Gaulke, and MJ Vanni. 2007. The relative importance of
bacteria and algae in pelagic nutrient cycling of reservoir ecosystems. ASLO
(Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography), Santa Fe, New
Mexico.
Davies, JM, WH Nowlin, B Matthews and A Mazumder. 2006. A temporal
discontinuity of nutrient deficiency and limitation, the role of deficiency in
cyanobacterial bloom formation. ASLO (Association for the Sciences of
Limnology and Oceanography), Victoria, British Columbia.
Nowlin, WH, MHH Stevens, M.J. Vanni, M.J. Gonzalez, and M.W.
Fields. 2005. Effects of a pulsed allochthonous subsidy from a 17-year
periodical cicada emergence on woodland pond communities. Oklahoma – Texas
Aquatic Research Group and Texas River and Reservoir Management Society
Meeting, Oklahoma Biological Station, Kingston, Oklahoma
Valente, JJ, MJ Gonzalez, WH Nowlin, MJ Vanni, MW Fields, and MHH
Stevens. 2005. Effects of the 17-year periodical cicada emergence on
zooplankton communities in woodland ponds. Ecological Society of America,
Montréal, Quebec
Pauly, L, MW Fields, C Koenig, C. Hwang and WH Nowlin. 2005.
Allochthonous input effects on the bacterial community of an aquatic mesocosm.
Ecological Society of America, Montréal, Quebec.
Nowlin, WH, MHH Stevens, M.J. Vanni, M.J. Gonzalez, J.J. Valente and M.W.
Fields. 2005. Effects of a pulsed allochthonous subsidy from a 17-year
periodical cicada emergence on woodland pond communities. Ecological Society
of America, 2005, Montréal, Quebec. Symposium: Resource pulses in space and
time: Linking species, communities, and ecosystems, Ecological Society of
America, Montréal, Quebec
Pray, CL, WH Nowlin, MJ Vanni, MHH Stevens, MJ González, MW Fields.
2005. Deposition and decomposition of litter associated with the emergence of
17-year periodical cicadas in woodland ponds and streams. Ecological Society of
America, Montréal, Quebec
Nowlin, WH, J-M Davies and A Mazumder. 2004. The relative importance of
“new” and “recycled” phosphorus sources in lakes of varying trophy in British
Columbia, Canada. Ecological Society of America, Portland, Oregon.
Mazumder, A, R Nordin, B Matthews, J-M Davies, WH Nowlin, PC Furey, C
Meays and K Broersma. 2004. Integrated water and watershed management for
sustainable clean and healthy water. The International Congress of Limnology
(SIL), Helsinki, Finland.
Nowlin, WH, J-M Davies and A Mazumder. 2002. Effects of seasonal
drawdown on a drinking water reservoir: response of pelagic phosphorus
pathways. American Society of Limnology and Oceanography, Victoria, British
Columbia, Canada.
Mazumder, A, Y Liang, J-M Davies, WH Nowlin, P Furey and B Matthews.
2002. Loss of ecosystem and watershed quality: a serious threat to sustainable
clean and healthy drinking water. American Society of Limnology and
Oceanography, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Davies, J-M, WH Nowlin and A Mazumder. 2002. Phytoplankton nutrient
status: implications of plankton size. American Society of Limnology and
Oceanography, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Nowlin, WH, J-M Davies and A Mazumder. 2002. Effects of seasonal
drawdown on a drinking water reservoir: responses of pelagic phosphorus
pathways. Society of Canadian Limnologists, Vancouver, British Columbia,
Canada.
Nowlin, WH, RW Drenner, M Chumchal, and S Mann. 2000. Biomassdependent effects of common carp on water quality: Implications for
biomanipulation of Texas reservoirs. American Society of Limnology and
Oceanography, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Basu, BK, Y Liang, P Caron, J-M Davies, WH Nowlin and A Mauzumder. 2000.
Environmental management of drinking water: An ecosystem and watershed
approach. American Society of Limnology and Oceanography, Copenhagen,
Denmark.
Drenner, RW, JL Smith, S Mann, M Chumchal, JM Fennell, WH Nowlin and CE
Edwards. 2000. Estimating the densities of common carp and their biomassdependent effects on ponds. Texas Chapter of the American Fisheries Society,
Bossier City, Louisiana, USA.
Mazumder, A, BK Basu, Y Liang, P Caron, J-M Davies and WH Nowlin. 2000.
The environmental management of drinking water: an overview of the NSERCIRC program at the University of Victoria. Society of Canadian Limnologists,
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada.
Drenner, RW, WH Nowlin, KR Guckenberger, M Lauden, JE Fennell and JL
Smith. 1999. Effects of piscivorous largemouth bass on water quality. Texas
River and Reservoir Management Society, College Station, Texas, USA.
Nowlin, WH and RW Drenner. 1998. Effects of bluegill on experimental
mesocosm communities in the presence and absence of a fish assemblage. Texas
River and Reservoir Management Society/North Texas Limnology Group, Denton,
Texas, USA.
Nowlin, WH and RW Drenner. 1998. Effects of bluegill on experimental
mesocosm communities in the presence and absence of a fish assemblage.
American Society of Limnology and Oceanography/Ecological Society of
America, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Conference Proceedings
Mock, L. BF Schwartz, WH Nowlin, BT Hutchins, T Hardy, TH Bonner. 2011.
The role of metrology in monitoring and preserving the water quality in the
Edwards Aquifer in Central Texas. Proceedings of the 2011 National Conference
of Standards Laboratories International (NCSLI) Symposium. August 21-25,
2011, National Harbor, MD.
Invited Seminars
University of Southern Mississippi, Department of Biological Science –
November 2012. Creatures great and small: The role of organisms in riverine
nutrient cycling.
University of North Texas, Department of Biological Science – January 2012.
Creatures great and small: The role of organisms in ecosystem nutrient dynamics.
The University of Texas – Austin, School of Biological Sciences, Section of
Integrative Biology – April 2010. Creatures great and small: The importance of
organisms in ecosystem nutrient dynamics.
Austin College, Department of Biology, Sherman, Texas – October 2006.
Picoplankton, piscivores and periodical cicadas: research in aquatic ecology.
Texas State University, Aquatic Biology Society, San Marcos, Texas – October
2005. Effects of a pulsed allochthonous subsidy from a 17-year periodical
cicadas emergence on woodland pond communities.
Miami University, Department of Zoology, Oxford, Ohio – Miami Department of
Zoology REU program speaker, July 2005. The effects of 17-year periodical
cicadas on woodland aquatic ecosystems: An overview of summer research in the
Miami ECO-REU program.
Bowling Green State University, Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling
Green, Ohio – January 2005. The relative importance of “new”
and “recycled” phosphorus sources in lakes of varying trophy in British
Columbia, Canada.
Students Directed and Advised
Graduate Student Theses and Dissertations Directed
A Everett. In progress. TBD. Texas State University, MS.
LA Loney. In progress. Nutrient recycling and stoichiometry of stygobiont
invertebrates in a karst aquifer system. Texas State University, MS.
AP Swink. In progress. Phosphorus uptake in karstic spring-fed rivers of central
Texas. Texas State University, MS.
K Hoesel. In progress. Effects of invasive floating vegetation on the nutrient
dynamics of a spring-influenced ecosystem. Texas State University, MS.
JC Becker. Graduated August 2013. Biogeochemistry and microbial diversity of
a Gulf-slope drainage. Texas State University. Ph.D.
KJ Rodibaugh. Graduated December 2012 Landscape-level patterns in
ecosystem metabolism of an arid and semi-arid river system. Texas State
University, MS.
AA Abuzeineh. Graduated December 2012. Cross system transport of organic
matter and contaminants in semi-arid and arid lotic ecosystems. Texas State
University. Ph.D.
CM LeBoeuf. Graduated May 2010. The effects of invasive species and
eutrophication on the nutrient dynamics of a spring-fed river ecosystem. Texas
State University. M.S.
PH Diaz. Graduated May 2010. Trophic ecology and habitat use of the San
Marcos Salamander. Texas State University. MS.
C L Pray. Graduated December 2009. Ecosystem impacts of the exotic armored
catfish in the San Marcos River. Texas State University. MS.
A Smith. Graduated May 2009. Spatial distribution and factors affecting Hg
levels in food webs of the Rio Grande and Pecos River. Texas State University.
MS.
CB Caston. Graduated May 2008. The relative importance of bacteria and algae
in reservoir carbon cycling. Texas State University. M.S.
Undergraduate Student Projects Directed
PH Diaz. 2006. The influence of productivity, size, and hydroperiod on species
richness in geographically isolated wetlands. Texas State University. Recipient
of Francis Rose Undergraduate Research Award 2006 and winner of Best
Undergraduate Speaker at the Texas State University Department of Biology
Student Research Colloquium.
CL Pray. 2004. Deposition and decomposition of periodical cicada detritus in
woodland aquatic ecosystems: potential impacts on nutrient cycling. Miami
University, Ohio.
Service as a Member of Dissertation and Thesis Committees
Stinson, C - MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
University. In progress.
Hutchins, B - PhD, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Whitney, S - PhD, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Tobin, B - PhD, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
University. Completed 2013
Brown, D – PhD, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Cocke, W – MS, Biology, Department of Biology, Texas Christian University.
Completed 2012.
Gerard, B – MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
University. Completed 2012.
Bean, P – PhD, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
University. Completed 2012.
Lash, F – MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Shattuck, Z. – MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
University, Competed 2010
Scott, SE - MS – Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
University, Completed 2009
Folb, C – MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Becker, JC – MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Meyer, J – MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Heard, T - MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Cohen, K - MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Marfurt, R - MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Runyan, D - MS, Aquatic Resources, Department of Biology, Texas State
Honors and Awards
Texas State University Presidential Award for Scholarly/Creative Activities –
Assistant Professor. 2008. Recognized as top researcher among all Assistant
Professors from across all colleges/schools at the University.
Graduate Student Tuition Fellowship – University of Victoria, Department of
Graduate Studies. Received award every semester from September 1999 September 2003
Student Travel Award – American Society of Limnology and Oceanography
(ASLO) Conference 2000 in Copenhagen, Denmark
Outstanding Graduate Student of 1998 – Texas Christian University, Department
of Biology
Adkins Research Fellowship to Graduate Students – Texas Christian University,
May - September 1997
Professional Service and Activities
Departmental and University Service
Director, Aquatic Resources MS Program (May 2012 – Present)
Chair, Stream Ecologist Faculty Search Committee, Department of
Biology, Texas State University (September 2013 – Present)
Chair, Ten-Year Strategic Hiring Plan Committee, Department of Biology,
Texas State University (September 2013 – Present)
Currently serve on the Awards Day Committee (Chair), Budget
Committee, College Recruiting Committee, Tenure Tracking Committee,
and the Spring Lake Environmental Committee
Professional Memberships
ASLO (Advancing the Science of Limnology and Oceanography), ESA
(Ecological Society of America), Society for Environmental Toxicology
and Chemistry (SETAC), NALMS (North American Lake Management
Society), SCL (Society of Canadian Limnologists)
Leadership in Professional Societies
President - South Central Chapter of the Society for Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry, 2012-2013
Vice President, South Central Chapter of the Society for Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry, 2010-2011
Board Member, South Central Chapter of the Society for Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry, 2009 – Current
Served as Manuscript Reviewer
Hydrobiologia, Ecology Letters, Oikos, Environmental Toxicology and
Chemistry, Hydrobiologia, Oecologia, Lakes and Reservoirs: Research
and Management, Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater
Ecosystems, Limnology and Oceanography, Freshwater Biology,
Southwestern Naturalist, American Midland Naturalist, Transactions of
the American Fisheries Society, Journal of Applied Biology, Water
Resources and Management, Journal of the North American
Benthological Society, Lake and Reservoir Management
Served as Research Grant Proposal Reviewer
Israel Science Foundation (ISF), National Science Foundation (NSF)
Membership on Committees in Professional Organizations
American Society of Limnology and Oceanography
Education Sub-committee of the Education and Human Resources
Committee (January 2003 – January 2005) – Program designed to advance
education of the scientific fields of limnology and oceanography across a
broad range of students from kindergarten to graduate students.
Committee activities include creation of web-based courses, education
outreach programs, creation of teaching tools and a web-based image
library.
Organization of Professional Meetings
Oklahoma – Texas Aquatic Research Group (OTARG)/Great Plains
Limnology Conference (GPLC), October 2011. Organization and hosting
of tri-annual meeting at The University of Oklahoma Biological Station.
Society for Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, May 2009,
Organization and hosting of the annual meeting of the South Central
Chapter of the Society for Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology at
Texas State University.
Joint Ecological Society of America (ESA) and International Congress of
Ecology (INTECOL), Symposium Co-Organizer, 2005 Annual Meeting in
Montreal, Quebec, Canada – Resource pulses in space and time: Linking
species, communities and ecosystems.
American Society of Limnology and Oceanography, Summer 2002
meeting in Victoria, BC, Canada – Organize and coordinate activities for
the ASLO Minorities in the Aquatic Sciences (MAS) Program.
Community Service
Technical Science Advisor, Upper San Marcos Coordinating Group
(stakeholder group formed as part of the Watershed Protection Plan for the
Upper San Marcos). I additionally attended the City of San Marcos Mater
Planning Meetings as the group representative.
Research Experience
Miami University Postdoctoral Research Scholar – Miami University
January 2004
Effects of a pulsed nutrient subsidy into small woodland streams and
semi-permanent ponds associated with an emergence of periodical 17-year
cicadas. Funded through a NSF-SGER (Small Grant for Exploratory
Research) grant and the NSF REU (Research Experience for
Undergraduates) program at Miami University.
Graduate Research Assistant – University of Victoria
September 1999 - December 2003
Research focusing on planktonic phosphorus cycling in lakes of varying
productivity. Part of a large NSERC Research Chair program on the
Environmental Management of Drinking Water.
Graduate Research Assistant – Texas Christian University
Biomass dependent effects of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) on water
quality and plankton communities in experimental ponds.
Graduate Research Assistant – Texas Christian University
Effects of bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) on plankton, benthic
macroinvertebrates and nutrients in the presence and absence of other fish
species. Funded by an Adkins Graduate Student Fellowship.
Undergraduate Research Project – Austin College
January - May 1996
Effects of suspended clay on zooplankton reproduction and zooplankton
community structure.
Intern – City of Sherman Water Monitoring Lab (Sherman, Texas)
January - February 1996
Analysis of samples of local industry effluents into the city waste water
treatment system and samples from within the waste water treatment plant.
Undergraduate Research Assistant – Texas Christian University
Development of electrofishing model for the estimation of largemouth
bass densities.
January Term in Ecuador – Austin College
January 1995
Botanical and natural history field work in tropical mountain and
rainforest ecosystems.
Teaching Experience
Texas State University, Department of Biology
September 2005 – Present
- Wetlands Ecology (BIO 7422)
- Community and Ecosystem Ecology (BIO 7302)
- General Ecology (BIO 4416)
- Undergraduate Research (BIO 4299)
- Graduate Research (BIO 5214)
- Seminar in Aquatic Resources (BIO 7102)
Miami University, Department of Zoology
September – December 2004
Postdoctoral Lecturer
- Fundamentals of Ecology (ZOO 204)
University of Victoria, Department of Biology
September 1999 - September 2002
Departmental Teaching Assistantship (Laboratories)
- Principles of Ecology (BIOL 215)
- Survey of Invertebrates (BIOL 321)
- General Biology (BIOL 190B)
- General Biology (BIOL 110)
Mansfield High School, Mansfield, Texas
January - May 1999
Science Teacher
- Biology
- Integrated Physics and Chemistry
Texas Christian University, Department of Biology
January 1997 - December 1998
Departmental Teaching Assistantship (Laboratories)
- Principles of Life Science for Majors (BIOL 105)
- Principles of Life Science for Non-Majors (BIOL 100)
Jean K. Krejca, Ph.D.
President
General Qualifications
Dr. Krejca has extensive experience with the identification and
regulation of endangered species and habitat in Texas. She is a
specialist in the biology of subterranean species including karst
invertebrates, bats, and Eurycea salamanders. Additionally she
has widespread experience with freshwater mussel species. She
has been responsible for the design, implementation, and
management of time sensitive environmental projects dealing with
karst and aquatic issues in Bexar, Travis, Williamson, and Hays
counties in central Texas. Dr. Krejca’s project experience also
includes leading biological inventories, rare and endangered
species surveys, and developing customized biological studies.
She has conducted karst feature surveys on 5000 acres in central
Texas since 2000. Her clients are public and private sector
organizations and developers, and she has consulted numerous
times with USFWS to obtain an Incidental Take Permit (section
10(a)(1)(B)), or to perform avoidance measures and therefore
guide the client to an alternative to a take permit. She has
received numerous federal and state grants for cutting edge
research, and her research has been published in peer-reviewed
journals.
With Zara Since: 2003
Industry Experience Since: 1990
Education
Ph.D., 2005, Ecology, Evolution, and
Behavior, University of Texas
B.S., 1995, Zoology, Southern
Illinois University at Carbondale
Certifications
USFWS Endangered Species
10(a)(1)(A) Permit TE85077A
Diver: Advanced Open Water and
Full Cave certified
CPR, First Aid, cave rescue
OSHA confined space
TxDOT Pre-Certifications
2.6.1 Protected Species
Determination (Habitat)
2.6.2 Impact Evaluation
Assessments
2.6.3 Biological Surveys
Experience
Deep Aquifer Biota Study, Bexar, Comal and Medina counties, Texas (2007 ongoing as of 2013).
Edwards Aquifer Authority. The Edwards Aquifer contains a diverse array of stygobitic fauna that is rarely
accessible for scientific research. This project has offered an opportunity to sample large quantities of well
outflows through a unique agreement with land owners. Beginning in 2008, we built and installed infrastructure
that allowed us to sample well sites that are inaccessible without major modification. The sampling of wells has
led us to the documentation of at least six new locality records for crustaceans, added an entire order of fauna
previously undocumented from the Edwards Aquifer, facilitated the collection of a species of copepod
previously unknown to science, (Diacyclops sp.), and documented the persistence of Trogloglanis pattersoni
and Satan eurystomus, two species of blind catfishes that have been largely absent from the scientific literature
since 1978. Prior to this study, no genetic information was available for either of these two species of blind
catfishes, however this sampling has allowed material from both species of blindcat to be collected and
genetically sequenced for the first time.
Intrepid Potash Karst Invertebrate Technical Report, Eddy County, New Mexico (October 2011 - August
2012). Intrepid Potash. We conducted inventories of terrestrial and aquatic subterranean fauna in three gypsum
caves in support of an Environmental Impact Statement for a proposed potash mining project in Eddy County,
New Mexico. All three caves showed a broad array of terrestrial invertebrate fauna, including typical cave fauna
Zara
1
such as Ceuthophilus crickets, Rhadine ground beetles, Cicurina spiders, and Speorthus millipedes.
Groundwater sampling for fauna revealed an undescribed species of Parabogidiella amphipod known only from
Skylite Cave, and an undescribed species of Diacyclops copepod known only from Selenite Moon and Skylight
caves, as well as two species of ostracods. Terrestrial fauna include an undescribed species of Rhadine beetle
that is also known from gypsum caves nearby.
Barton Springs Environmental Assessment, Travis County, Texas (2011-2012). City of Austin (via
subcontract through Weston Solutions Inc.). Zara Environmental is assisting in the development of an
Environmental Assessment (EA) for the renewal of a Section 10(a)(1)(B) permit and Habitat Conservation Plan
for the Barton Springs Salamander, Eurycea sosorum and the Austin Blind Salamander, Eurycea
waterlooensis. Proposed mitigation and minimization activities associated with the operation and maintenance
of Barton Springs Pool include management of a refugium population, habitat restoration, scientific studies on
both species and their habitats, and education and outreach about the spring complex and the Edwards
Aquifer.
Biological Surveys at Jacob’s Well, Hays County, Texas (2009-2012). The Meadows Center for Water and
the Environment at Texas State University (formerly River Systems Institute. Zara was responsible for
performing a complete biological inventory and updating the subterranean map of Jacob’s Well Cave using
SCUBA techniques. This project yielded specimens of an undescribed (i.e.-new to science) amphipod species,
and collections of Eurycea salamanders from deep within the well. The conclusion of this project will include
genetic sequencing of the salamanders, a description of the amphipod, and will contribute to a greater
understanding of the surface and subsurface aquatic communities at Jacob’s Well Spring.
Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) (2009-2012). RECON Environmental, Inc. for the Edwards Aquifer
Recovery Implementation Program. Zara biologists and hydrogeologists assisted in the preparation of the
Environmental Settings and Baseline chapters of the EARIP HCP and EIS documents. Specific duties included
review of previous reports, technical writing, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) of documents, meeting
attendance and presentation to stakeholers, and consultation with the USFWS. Stakeholders included the
Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) Board of Directors, the City of San Marcos City Council, the City of New
Braunfels City Council, the San Antonio Water System Board of Directors, and the office of the President of
Texas State University. The EARIP is intended to resolve the longstanding conflict between the federal
mandate to protect threatened and endangered species associated with the Edwards Aquifer and the region's
dependence on the same aquifer as its primary water resource. Stakeholders received an Incidental Take
Permit (ITP) under Section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The ITP allows for the “incidental
take” of threatened or endangered species resulting from the otherwise lawful activities involving regulating and
pumping of groundwater from the Edwards Aquifer. The HCP and EIS supported the issuance of an ITP which
Eight species that depend directly on water in or discharged from the Aquifer are federally-listed as threatened
or endangered. These species include fountain darter (Etheostoma fonticola), San Marcos salamander
(Eurycea nana), San Marcos gambusia (Gambusia georgei), Texas blind salamander (Eurycea [formerly
Typhlomolge] rathbuni), Peck's cave amphipod (Stygobromus pecki), Comal Springs dryopid beetle
(Stygoparnus comalensis), Comal Springs riffle beetle (Heterelmis comalensis), and Texas wild rice (Zizania
texana). The primary threat to these Aquifer-dependent species is the intermittent loss of habitat from reduced
springflows. The HCP and EIS included the entire Edwards Aquifer Authority Jurisdictional Area of Bexar,
Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays, Medina, and Uvalde counties, Texas. USFWS issued its ROD and IPT on
18 March 2013.
Zara
2
Hays County Regional Habitat Conservation Plan Consultation and Co-Author, Hays County, Texas
(2008-2010). Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd. (formerly Loomis Partners) for Hays Count. Consultant and coauthor of Hays County Regional Habitat Conservation Plan. Responsibilities included technical writing for the
regional habitat conservation plan (RHCP) and environmental impact statement (EIS), document review,
meeting attendance and presentation to County Commissioners and technical and citizen groups, and
consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The Hays County RHCP includes conservation
measures to minimize and mitigate incidental take of the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo and
establishes a preserve system of 10,000-15,000 acres to mitigate for the incidental take. The RHCP and EIS
were approved by USFWS 13 May 2011. This plan also included consideration of rare, non-listed karst
invertebrate species. To help the County in selecting conservation lands for the plan, Zara Environmental
assisted them in obtaining a USFWS/TPWD Section 6 grant to study the distribution of rare species and to
establish karst fauna regions.
Detectability of karst invertebrates (2006 to 2007). Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Zara designed,
performed, and authored a year-long study analyzing large datasets of karst species abundance. Species
detections at 23 caves each surveyed eleven times were analyzed in relation to eleven environmental
covariates thought to impact the detectability of karst species. The covariates were not found to affect the
detectability of the species, and further analyses demonstrated the number of surveys needed to achieve a
95% confidence level for proving species absence. Grant awarded through U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Section 6 program.
Mark-Recapture Study, Hays County, Texas (2005-2007). Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. A markrecapture study of Eurycea rathbuni at two caves in San Marcos, Texas. Declines in this rare species have
been noted in the past, and this study provided data-backed population estimates for these locales. Grant
awarded through U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Section 6 program.
Zara
3
Krista M. McDermid
Biologist/Project Manager
General Qualifications
Krista holds a Master’s degree in Wildlife Ecology from
Texas State University in San Marcos and a bachelor’s
degree in Evolution, Ecology and Behavior from The
University of Texas at Austin, where she worked on
behavioral and genetic development of the zebra fish,
Danio rerio. Before joining Zara, Krista worked as a
biologist for the Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the City of
Austin. Since 2007 she has participated in numerous
projects including surveys for state and federally listed
karst invertebrates, mammals, birds, aquifer fauna and
freshwater mussels. She has conducted karst feature
surveys on more than 500 acres in central Texas since
2007. She has also conducted aquatic macro-invertebrate
habitat and presence/absence surveys for aquifer species
in Hays, Bexar, Uvalde and Medina Counties.
With Zara Since:2007
Industry Experience Since: 2005
Education
M.S., 2009, Wildlife Ecology, Texas
State University
Certification, 2010, G.I.S.,
Pennsylvania State University
B.S., 2004, Biology, University of
Texas
Certifications
USFWS Endangered Species
10(a)(1)(A) Permit TE85077A
TPWD Scientific Research Permit
SPR-0608-082
SCUBA, open-water and advanced
CPR, First Aid, Cave Rescue
In addition to the project-specific experience outlined
OSHA Confined Space
below, Krista has experience with the development and
implementation of Habitat Conservation Plans,
Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental
Assessments, Biological Assessments, and Section 7 consultations.
Selected Experience
US 281 Environmental Impact Statement (2009 to present), San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.
Alamo Regional Mobility Authority (via Jacobs Engineering). Assistant Project Manager. Zara
performed field work and writing for a large scale EIS covering roadway through potential
endangered species habitat and sensitive aquifer recharge zones. Field work included endangered
species surveys for karst invertebrates and a geological assessment. Writing included assisting with
the draft and final EIS and with the NEPA process (e.g. public meetings, USFWS consultation).
Additionally, Zara staff provided guidance and consultations to engineers, lawyers, Texas
Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration for avoiding and mitigating
environmental impacts. The level of support Zara is provided includes litigation support for a
process that is expected to come under intense scrutiny.
Edwards Aquifer Well and Cave Sampling for Aquifer Biota: Comal, Bexar, Medina and Uvalde
Counties, Texas (2008 to present). Edwards Aquifer Authority. Project Manager, Scientist.
Responsibilities include project design, management oversight, right of access coordination with
landowners, field collections and assessments, and extensive lab and field work with the aquatic
Zara
1
fauna of the Edwards Aquifer. This project includes habitat surveys and presence/absence surveys
at more than twelve sites with the potential to contain listed aquatic macro-invertebrate and two
fish species that have been proposed for listing.
Lakeline Mall Habitat Conservation Plan, Travis and Williamson Counties, Texas (2007 to
present). Texas Cave Management Association. Project Manager. Responsibilities include project
management oversight and field work. Zara has an ongoing contract to survey mitigation preserves
for listed karst species. This includes evaluating presence/absence of karst invertebrates including
arachnids and insects, and monitoring subterranean salamander populations multiple times per
calendar year.
Decker Lake Power Plant Ichthyoplankton Entrainment Study, Section 316b, Austin, Texas (2013).
AMEC. Project Manager. Conducted aquatic vegetation surveys and monthly 24-h entrainment
sampling events at Decker Lake Power Plant, Austin, Texas, in accordance with activities related to
Section 316b of the Clean Water Act.
Deer Lane Groundwater Study (2011 to 2012). City of Austin. Scientist. Zara was selected by the
Austin City Council to be the sole-source recipient of a contract to conduct tracer tests along Deer
Lane in south Austin. The project goal is ensure that this road improvement project will be in
compliance with permitting requirements related to the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan
agreement with USFWS. Zara’s role is to conduct background water quality monitoring,
groundwater tracer tests, and fauna surveys in three caves near the project. The tracer tests will
use safe dyes and chemical tracers to simulate how contaminants from roadway runoff might move
through the soils and into cave drips and the aquifer. The results of the study will help engineers
implement water quality measures to ensure that impacts to the caves, cave fauna, and
groundwater are minimized.
Environmental Assessment services and Easement Documentation Report preparation for
Proposition 1 and 3 lands near Government Canyon State Natural Area, Bexar and Medina
Counties, Texas (2011). Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Scientist. Zara biologists conducted
all field work necessary to document the condition of approximately 3,000 acres of City of San
Antonio (COSA) Proposition 1 and 3 Edwards Aquifer Program Natural Areas and prepare the
Easement Documentation Report (EDR) for use in the development of a conservation easement
between the COSA and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). The goal of the easement
agreement is to preserve groundwater recharge water quality and assist in mitigation of
endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler habitat for Camp Bullis (United States Army medical training
facility) training area expansion.
Karst Habitat Determination at Medina Dam, Medina County, Texas (2011). San Antonio River
Authority (via URS Corporation). Project Manager. A permitted biologist from Zara Environmental
evaluated all reinforcing boreholes along the east wing wall of Medina Lake Dam to determine if
they contained voids with potential karst invertebrate habitat.
Zara
Krista M. McDermid
2
Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) (2009 to 2012). RECON Environmental, Inc. for the Edwards
Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program. Scientist. Assisted in the preparation of the
Environmental Settings and Baseline chapters of the EARIP HCP and EIS documents. Specific duties
included review of previous reports, technical writing, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) of
documents, meeting attendance and presentation to stakeholers, and consultation with the
USFWS. The HCP and EIS supported the issuance of an ITP which eight species that depend directly
on water in or discharged from the Aquifer are federally-listed as threatened or endangered. These
species include fountain darter (Etheostoma fonticola), San Marcos salamander (Eurycea nana), San
Marcos gambusia (Gambusia georgei), Texas blind salamander (Eurycea [formerly Typhlomolge]
rathbuni), Peck's cave amphipod (Stygobromus pecki), Comal Springs dryopid beetle (Stygoparnus
comalensis), Comal Springs riffle beetle (Heterelmis comalensis), and Texas wild rice (Zizania
texana). The HCP and EIS included the entire Edwards Aquifer Authority Jurisdictional Area of
Bexar, Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays, Medina, and Uvalde counties, Texas.
Fauna inventory of Jacob’s Well, Hays County, Texas (2009 to 2012). River Systems Institute.
Project Manager. Responsibilities include project design and execution for a complete survey of
Jacob’s Well, an underwater cave in Wimberley, Texas, and the surrounding stream habitat. This
includes collection and identification of aquifer adapted and stream dwelling aquatic invertebrates
and salamanders. This site may have the potential to contain listed aquatic macro-invertebrate or
undescribed species.
Karst Fauna Mapping, Hays County, Texas (2009). Hays County. Scientist. Responsibilities include
field work for the evaluation of Hays County caves for the presence of karst invertebrates and karst
invertebrate collection management. This project involves the identification and collection of
arachnid and insect species that have the potential to become listed species based on their narrow
habitat parameters.
Jollyville Transmission Main, Austin, Travis County, Texas (2009 to 2011). Hicks and Co. (Black and
Veatch Engineering, City of Austin). Scientist. Zara performed karst species consultation services
including spatial analysis of environmentally sensitive areas, research on localities and potential
impacts on the Jollyville Plateau Salamander and endangered karst invertebrates, karst feature
surveys, and USFWS consultations. Consultations with the City of Austin and USFWS included
navigation of multiple HCP’s, including the Comanche Canyon HCP and the Travis County Regional
HCP.
Camp Bullis Karst Research, San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas (2007 to 2012). Department of
Defense (via subcontract through Prewitt and Associates for years 2003 to 2009). Scientist (20072009); Project Manager (2009-2011). Zara Environmental is now the prime contractor for this
project. This project is a series of year-long contracts each covering a myriad of sub-projects.
Responsibilities have varied each year, but include project management, design, and execution.
Examples of projects include: performing karst surveys, monitoring endangered species, evaluating
karst invertebrate habitat, performing spring surveys (biota and water parameters), identifying
species, excavating caves, building cave gates, evaluating hydrogeology of caves and features,
Zara
Krista M. McDermid
3
executing dye traces, analyzing rainfall data, analyzing the flow of shallow groundwater over
endangered species localities in relation to cedar, clearing cedar, and performing custom research
projects related to Eurycea salamander distribution, abundance, and genetics.
Bat and Endangered Species Monitoring, San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas (2007 to 2009).
Department of Defense (subcontracted through Texas Cave Management Association). Scientist.
Endangered species and bat habitat monitoring, hydrogeologic analysis, and control of red
imported fire ants at cave and karst features on Camp Bullis military installation.
Selected Publications and Presentations
Krejca, J., Clamons, C., Cowan, B., McDermid, K., and A. Oliver. 2013. State-listed Threatened
Mussels and Invasive Zebra Mussels: What You Need to Know to Avoid Project Delays. Poster
presentation for Texas Water 2013 Conference. Galveston, Texas. 10-11 April 2013.
McDermid, Krista, Krejca, J., Clamons, C. Cowan, B. and A. Oliver. 2013. Survey methods and
freshwater mussel distribution by depth in the Trinity River. Poster presentation for the Freshwater
Mollusk Conservation Society 2013 Symposium. Guntersville, Alabama.
McDermid, Krista, Krejca, J., Clamons, C. Cowan, B. and A. Oliver. 2013. Unexpected Diversity
and Abundance in Highly Impacted Segments of the Trinity River. Poster presentation for the
Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society 2013 Symposium. Guntersville, Alabama.
McDermid, Krista. 2012. Bats in Texas Bridges. Presented at Bat Conservation International's
Batfest Symposium, San Antonio, Texas.
Weckerly, Floyd and Krista McDermid. 2010. Addendum-Karst invertebrate species survey
protocol and trend analyses at Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. Report prepared for the City of
Austin.
McDermid, Krista. 2009. Plethedon albagula diet. Herpetological Review 40: 197.
McDermid, Krista and Andrew Gluesenkamp. 2009. Salamanders of the genus Eurycea at Camp
Bullis, Bexar County, Texas. Proceedings of the 15th International Congress of Speleology, Kerville,
Texas.
McDermid, Krista. 2009. Food habits of the common musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus) in
lentic and lotic habitats, Spring Lake, Hays County, Texas. MS thesis: Texas State University-San
Marcos. 47 pp.
Fotinos, Timothy A., Andrew Blair, S. Ben Harnden, Krista McDermid, and Arjun Adhikari. 2007.
Small-scale patterns of plant species richness: implications for biodiversity and exotic invasion.
Southwestern Association of Naturalists (SWAN) Poster Presentation.
Zara
Krista M. McDermid
4
Doyle CV- 2012 Page 1 of 16
Robert D. Doyle, Ph.D.
Baylor University, Department of Biology
PO Box 97388, Waco, TX 76798
254-710-2911, [email protected]
Update 6/2012
PART I. BASIC INFORMATION
EDUCATION:
1991
Ph.D. Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences: University of Maryland.
Dissertation Title: Primary Production and Nitrogen Cycling Within the Periphyton Community
Associated with Emergent Aquatic Macrophytes in an Amazon Floodplain Lake.
1985
M.S. Biology: Baylor University
Thesis Title: Phytoplankton Production of Tropical Lake Chapala, Mexico.
1981
B.S. Biology: Baylor University, Waco, TX.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
2005-present
Chair, Department of Biology, Baylor University
2003-present
Director, Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research (CRASR)
2008-present
Professor, Baylor University
2001-2008
Associate Professor, Baylor University
1998-2001
Assistant Professor, University of North Texas.
1996-1998
Research Biologist, US Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station,
Lewisville Aquatic Ecosystem Research Facility, Lewisville TX.
1991-1998
Adjunct Assistant Professor, Un of North Texas, Department of Biological Sciences
1993-1996.
Research Scientist II, University of North Texas, Institute of Applied Sciences.
1991-1993
Research Scientist I, University of North Texas, Institute of Applied Sciences.
1986-1991
Graduate Research Assistant, University of Maryland, Marine, Estuarine,
Environmental Science Program. .
1985-1986
Research Associate, University of Maryland, Amazon Floodplain Research Project.
CERTIFICATION:
1995- present
Professional Wetland Scientist, Society of Wetland Scientists
HONORS AND AWARDS:
2003-present
Fellow, Texas Academy of Sciences
1997, 1998
Department of the Army, Official Commendation for exceptional performance of
duties as Research Biologist.
1995
UACE Wetlands Research Program, Commendation for contribution to the WRP,
1981
Recipient of the Cornelia M. Smith Award for Outstanding Biology Senior at Baylor
University.
1981
Graduated cum laude from Baylor University.
PART II. RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS
GRANTS & CONTRACTS
Current Direct Funding (Doyle as PI or co-PI)
Gear-Up Waco: Marsh Madness. Principal investigator of the “Marsh Madness: environmental
education module of the overall Gear-Up Waco program, 2006-2012, $1.16M total over 6 years. Total
Gear-Up Waco award of $12.2M over 6 years to Baylor University (various PI’s).
Previous (completed) funding at Baylor
Restoration of the lower San Marcos River, TX. (Cooperative agreement with the USFWS, 10/20057/2011, $76,000). R. Doyle is the principal investigator of this project to develop methods for largescale native aquatic plant restoration of the lower San Marcos river following dredging efforts to remove
a nuisance exotic invasive plant species (Cryptocoryne beckettii).
Coastal Prairie Freshwater Wetland Function Project, (TCEQ & Galveston Bay Estuary Program,
2007-2009, $250,000; 2009-2010 $111,570, total project = $361,570). R. Doyle and M. Forbes (coprincipal investigators). Dr. Forbes is a post-doc in my lab and has developed this funding to develop
water quality and flood storage functional assessment models for geographically isolated depressional
wetlands along the Texas coastal prairie ecosystem near Houston, TX.
Lake Whitney Comprehensive Assessment, (Project Director for comprehensive evaluation of Lake
Whitney for possible use as a drinking water source. Numerous scientists from Baylor’s departments of
Biology, Geology, Environmental Studies and the Center for Spatial Research are involved, 2006-2008).
Phase 1a: Physical Limnology (USEPA, $396,000)
Phase 1b: Biological Assessment (DOE, $481,000)
Phase 1c: Ambient Toxicity and Contaminant Assessment (USEPA, $197,000)
Transition Zone Index Development and Validation Project (2004-2008, $615,000 4-year total,
funding from TCEQ via BRA- co principal investigator with Bryan Brooks). This grant focuses on
developing criteria for identifying and modeling the “transition area” of a reservoir between the
inflowing stream and the lake-like lacustrine zone.
Improving Ammonia and Phosphorus Removal in Subsurface Flow Wetlands, (TCEQ- Texas Onsite Wastewater Treatment Research Council, 2007-2008, $107,000, collaborator with Joe Yelderman).
This project uses pilot scale subsurface flow (SSF) wetlands and soil columns to conduct research that
will lead to improvements in nutrient removal from septic tank effluent.
Lake Waco Study, 2002-2005: ($1.1 million total to BU, $152,324 for Doyle, City of Waco via
ENSR. Doyle served as overall project manager for Baylor’s funding).
Lake Waco Nitrogen Fixation (FY 02, 03 & 04 total = $66,337).
Lake Waco Monitoring (FY 03, 04 & 05 total = $85,987).
Spatial Patterns in Wetland Nutrient Biogeochemistry: Implications for Ecosystem Functions.
Texas Agriculture Extension Station, Water Resources Institute, $5,000. J.T. Scott & R. Doyle.
Baylor Experimental Aquatic Research support grant. Altria Group, Inc. – 2004 Environment/Water
Conservation. $35,000. 2005-2006. R. S. King, B. W. Brooks, R. D. Doyle.
Lake Cypress Springs Herbivorous Insect Evaluation ($6,000 Franklin County, TX)
Enhancement of 3km Segment of San Marcos- 2003-04 ($24,284, USFWS Section 6 via TPWD)
This grant provides partial support for our second year restoration efforts on the San Marcos River, TX.
which includes efforts to eradicate an exotic aquatic plant and re-establish desirable native vegetation.
Cryptocoryne beckettii control in the San Marcos River- Phase I, 2002-2003. ($25,000USFWS).
A cooperative agreement has been established with the USFWS for on-going research and
management efforts on the San Marcos River. The first phase of this cooperative agreement
was funded at $25,000. This funding continued a fruitful and long-term cooperative
agreement. In the past the USFWS has funded me for about $350,000 of research on the San
Marcos. Additional funds followed this grant (see above).
Evaluation of the peroxidase enzyme assay with respect to insect herbivory on Hydrilla
verticillata (2001-02, $5,825-Baylor URC).
1998-2001 Funding while a tenure-track faculty at UNT
Impacts of Hydrellia pakistanae on plant competitive interactions -COE Waterways Experiment Station
$20,000.
Impacts of Hydrellia pakistanae on Hydrilla verticillata -COE Waterways Experiment Station $33,081.
Assessment of Factors Influencing Texas Wildrice (Zizania Texana) Sexual and Asexual Reproduction ,
Edwards Aquifer Authority (Co-PI with P. Power for grant received by USFWS-NFH), $63,060.
Development of Water Quality Monitoring System for Lake Texoma, Co-investigator with Dickson,
Waller, Atkinson - US Army Corps of Engineers via Wendy Lopez and Associates- $299,059.
Inter-personnel Act Agreement-US Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station- Summer
salary support for Robert Doyle 1999 & 2000, $ 39,296.
Inter-personnel Act Agreements- US Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station Salary
support for Dr. Gary Dick 10/98-9/00, $119,750.
Inter-personnel Act Agreements- US Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station Salary
support for Mr. Matt Francis 2/00-12/00, $31,334.95.
Inter-personnel Act Agreements- US Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station 50%
salary support for Mr. David Honnell 6/99-5/01, $61,836.
Establishment of native aquatic plans for lake restoration and fish habitat enhancement- Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department, Co-investigator with Dickson and Dick, $137,684.
Development of Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Technologies- Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration
Foundation, $36,500.
Determination of the carbon sources for Texas Wildrice and other aquatic plants of the Comal and San
Marcos Rivers, UNT Faculty Development Grant, $3,800.
1992-1998 Funding (Prior to joining faculty at UNT in 1998)
1998, Effects of Biocontrol Agents on the Competitive Interactions Between Exotic and Native Plant
Species (COE, 70,000, Co-PI w/ M. Smart)
1998, Assessment of Vegetation Loss During Low Flows for Development of Adaptive Management
Recommendations (USFWS, $101,000)
1998, Restoration of TX Wildrice and Other Vegetation: Comal and San Marcos Rivers, (USFWS,
$14,333)
1998, Effects of Inorganic Clay Turbidity on the Growth and Reproductive Potential of Native
Submersed Plants (COE, $12,500)
1998, Lake Wister Native Plant Establishment (Tulsa COE, $13,250)
1998, Eradication of Hydrilla on the Comal River and Restoration with Native Species (USFWS,
$6,000)
1998, Development of a Wetland For Water Quality Benefits of Oyster Creek, TX. (Brazos River
Authority, $15,000)
1997, Assessment of Vegetation Loss During Low Flows for Development of Adaptive Management
Recommendations (USFWS , $101,000)
1997, Restoration of TX Wildrice and Other Vegetation: Comal and San Marcos Rivers (USFWS ,
$14,333)
1997, Effects of Inorganic Clay Turbidity on the Growth and Reproductive Potential of Native
Submersed Plants (COE, $54,000)
1997, Survival of Macrophytes Under Simulated Wave Energy Regimes (COE, $35,000)
1997, Write section of Environmental Manual entitled ALimnology 101" (COE, $12,000)
1996, Establishment of Native Aquatic Plants in Lake Livingston: Stage I & II, (Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department, $30,000 Co-PI w/ M. Smart)
1995-1996, Plantings of Beneficial Native Aquatic Plants in Eagle Mountain Lake, TX. (Tarrant
County Water Control District, $7,900, Co-PI with M. Smart)
1995-1996, Effects of Inorganic Clay Turbidity on the Growth and Reproductive Potential of Native
Submersed Plants, (COE, $150,000)
1995-1998, Mitigation for Environmental Damages to the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning
Area (Upper Trinity Region Water District, $200,000. Doyle’s role: Negotiated settlement for
LLELA with UTRWD)
1995-1997, Establishment of Native Aquatic Macrophytes in Lake Conroe for Fish Habitat. (Lake
Conroe Restocking Association, $50,000. Co-PI w/ Mike Smart)
1993-1994, Fate of Atrazine in Wetland Mesocosms. (COE Wetlands Research Program, $130,000, CoPI w/ Mike Smart)
1993, Development of Wetland Trail at the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, (EPA
Region 6, $20,000)
1992-1993, Planting Developed Wetlands at Lake Ray Roberts, TX. (EPA $20,000, Co-PI w/ M. Smart)
PUBLICATIONS:
Peer-Reviewed Publications: The following articles have all been published in (or submitted to)
international journals.
38. Clap, AG, MG Forbes, RD Doyle, JC Yelderman. (in review, Wetlands). Hydrology of coastal
prairie wetlands of the Upper Gulf Coast, Texas.
38. Heimbach, E. et. al. 2012 accepted for publication. The Effects of Lowering Uric Acid Levels
Using Allopurinol on Components of Metabolic Syndrome. Cardiology Research.
37. Forbes, MG, J Back, RD Doyle. (2012 accepted for publication). Nutrient transformation and
retention by coastal prairie wetlands, Upper Gulf Coast, Texas. Wetlands.
36. Hubbs, A, EI Doyle, RG Bowden, RD Doyle. 2012 accepted for publication. A multiple variable
health assessment and descriptive study among college students. Psychological Reports.
35. Forbes, MG, RD Doyle, JT Scott, J Stanley, H Huang, BA Fulton, and BW Brooks. 2012. Carbon
sink to source: Longitudinal gradients of planktonic P:R ratios in subtropical reservoirs.
Biogeochemistry. 107:81-93.
34. Enwright, N, MG Forbes, RD Doyle, B Hunter, and W Forbes. 2011. Using Geographic Information
Systems to Inventory Coastal Prairie Wetlands along the Upper Gulf Coast, Texas. Wetlands.
31:687-697.
33. Forbes, MG, JC Yelderman Jr, T Potterton, RD Doyle. 2010. Effects of intermittent loading, media
type, and wetland age on nitrogen removal in horizontal subsurface flow wetlands. Water
Science and Technology 62:1865-1871.
32. Doyle, RD, JT Scott, M Forbes. 2010. Hot Spots and Hot Moments of Planktonic Nitrogen Fixation
in a Eutrophic Southern Reservoir. Lake and Reservoir Management 26:95-103. Nominated for
Society of Wetland Scientist “Labounty Award for Best Paper” 2010.
31. Scott, JT, JK Stanley, RD Doyle, M Forbes, BW Brooks, 2009. River-reservoir transition zones are
nitrogen fixation hotspots regardless of ecosystem trophic state. Hydrobiologia, 625:61-68
30. Scott, JT, DA Lang, RS King, RD Doyle, 2009. Nitrogen fixation and phosphatase activity in
periphyton growing on nutrient diffusing substrata: evidence for differential nutrient limitation in
stream periphyton. J. North American Benthological Association. 28(1):57-68.
29. Forbes, MG, RD Doyle, JT Scott, J Stanley, H Huang, BW Brooks, 2008. Physical factors control
carbon and nitrogen fixation in eight Texas reservoirs. Ecosystems. 11:1181-1197.
28. Alexander, M, RD Doyle, P Power. 2008. Suction Dredge Removal of an Invasive Macrophyte
From a Spring-fed River in Central Texas, USA. J. Aquatic Plant Management. 46:184-185.
27. Scott, JT, RD Doyle, S Prochnow, and JD White. 2008. Are watershed and lacustrine controls on
planktonic n2 fixation hierarchically structured?. Ecological Applications. 18:805-819.
26. Engle, DL, JM Melack, RD Doyle, and TR Fisher, 2008. High rates of net primary production and
turnover of floating grasses on the Amazon floodplain: Implications for aquatic respiration and
regional CO2 flux. Global Change Biology 14:396-381.
25. Scott, J.T., M.J. McCarthy, W.S. Gardner, and R.D. Doyle. 2008. Denitrification, dissimilatory
nitrate reduction to ammonium, and nitrogen fixation along a nitrate concentration gradient in a
created freshwater wetland. Biogeochemistry 87:99-111.
Doyle, R.D., M. Grodowitz, M. Smart, and C. Owens, 2007, Separate and interactive affects of
competition and herbivory on the growth, expansion and tuber formation of Hydrilla verticillata.
Biological Control 41:327-338.
24. Scott, J.T., R.D. Doyle, J.A. Back, and S.I. Dworkin. 2007. The role of N2 fixation in alleviating N
limitation in wetland metaphyton: enzymatic, isotopic, and elemental evidence. Biogeochemistry
84: 207-218.
23. Scott, J.T., R.D. Doyle. 2006. Coupled photosynthesis and heterotrophic bacterial biomass
production in a nutrient-limited wetland periphyton mat. Aquatic Microbial Ecology 45:69-77.
22. Forbes, M., K. Dickson, F. Saleh, W. Waller, R.D. Doyle, and P. Hudak. 2005, Recovery and
fractionation of phosphorus retained by lightweight expanded shale and masonry sand used as
media in subsurface flow treatment wetlands. Environmental Science and Technology 39:46214627.
21. Scott, J.T., R.D. Doyle, and C.T. Filstrup. 2005, Periphyton nutrient limitation and nitrogen fixation
potential along a wetland nutrient depletion gradient. Wetlands 25:439-448.
20. Power P. and R.D. Doyle. 2004. Carbon use by the endangered Texas Wild Rice (Zizania texana,
Poaceae). Sida, Contributions to Botany, 21:389-398
19. Forbes, M., K. Dickson, T. Golden, R.D. Doyle, P. Hudak. 2004. Dissolved Phosphorus Retention of
Light-Weight Expanded Shale and Masonry Sand Used in Subsurface Flow Treatment Wetlands.
Environ. Sci. Technol. 38,892-898.
18. Doyle, R.D., M Francis, and R.M. Smart. 2003. Competitive interactions between Ludwigia repens
and Hygrophila polysperma, morphologically similar aquatic plant species. Aquatic Botany
77:223-234.
17. Doyle, R.D., M. Grodowitz, R.M. Smart, C. Owens. 2002. Impact Of Hydrellia Pakistanae
(Diptera: Ephydridae) herbivory On growth and photosynthetic potential of Hydrilla verticillata.
Biological Control 24:221-229.
16. Doyle, R.D. 2001. Expansion and distribution of the exotic aquatic plant Cryptocoryne beckettii in
the San Marcos River, TX. Sida; contributions to botany 19:1027-1038.
15. Best, P.H., C.P. Buzzelli, S.M. Bartell, R.L. Wetzel, W.A. Boyd, R.D. Doyle, and K.R. Campbell.
2001. Hydrobiologia. Modeling submersed macrophyte growth in relation to underwater light
climate: modeling approaches and application potential. Hydrobiologia 444:43-70.
14. Doyle, R.D. 2001. Effects of waves on the early growth of Vallisneria americana. Freshwater
Biology 46:389-399.
13. Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 2001. Impacts of water column turbidity on the survival and growth of
Vallisneria americana winterbuds and seedlings. Lake and Reservoir Management 17:17-28.
12. Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 2001. Effects of drawdown and dessication on tubers of Hydrilla
verticillata, an exotic aquatic weed. Weed Science 49:135-140.
11. Doyle, R.D., P. Power, and K. Kennedy. 2000. Reintroduction potential of Texas Wildrice (Zizania
texana) into the San Marcos River, Texas. pp 179-184, L.S. Williamson, LA Dlutkowski, and
A.P. McCammon Soltis (eds), Proceedings, Wild Rice Research and Management Conference,
Carlton, Minnesota.
10. Stewart, L.K., P.F. Hudak, and R.D. Doyle. 1998. Modeling hydrologic alterations to a developing
wetland in an abandoned borrow pit. Journal of Environmental Management. 53:231-239.
9. Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart, 1998. Competitive reduction of noxious Lyngbya wollei mats by rooted
aquatic plants. Aquatic Botany. 61:17-32.
8. Smart, R.M., G.O. Dick, and R.D. Doyle. 1998. Techniques for establishing native aquatic plants. J.
Aquat. Plant Management. 36:44-49.
7. Doyle, R.D., R.M. Smart, C.Guest, and K. Bickel, 1997. Establishment of native aquatic plants for
fish habitat: test plantings in two North Texas reservoirs. Lake and Reservoir
Management.13:259-269.
6. Smart, R.M., R.D. Doyle, J.D. Madsen, and G.O. Dick. 1996. Establishment of native submersed
aquatic plant communities for fish habitat. In L.E. Miranda and D.R. DeVries (eds.)
Multidimensional Approaches to Reservoir Fisheries Management. American Fisheries Society
Symposium, 16:347-356.
5. Doyle, R.D. and T.R. Fisher. 1994. Nitrogen fixation by periphyton and plankton on the Amazon
floodplain at Lake Calado. Biogeochemistry 26:41-66.
4. Lind, O.T., R.D. Doyle, D.S. Vodopich, B.G. Trotter, J.G. Limon, L. Davalos-Lind. 1992. Clay
turbidity; Regulation of phytoplankton production in a large, nutrient-rich tropical lake. Limnol.
Oceanogr. 37(3): 549-565.
3. Limon, J.G., O.T. Lind, D.S. Vodopich, R.D. Doyle, and B.G. Trotter, 1989. Long- and short-term
variation in the physical and chemical limnology of a large, shallow, turbid tropical lake (Lake
Chapala, Mexico). Arch. Hydrobiol. /Suppl. 83 1:57-81.
2. Fisher, T.R., R.D. Doyle, and E.R. Peele. 1988. Size-fractionated uptake and regeneration of
ammonium and phosphate in a tropical lake. Verh. Internat. Verein. Limnol. 23:637-641.
1. Davalos, L., O.T. Lind, and R.D. Doyle. 1989. Evaluation of phytoplankton-limiting factors in Lake
Chapala, Mexico: Turbidity and the spatial and temporal variation in algal assay response. Lake
and Reservoir Management 5:99-104.
Reports and Other Publications (peer-reviewed reports are indicated)
Forbes, MG., J Yelderman, RD Doyle, Adam Clapp, B Hunter and N Enwright. 2009. Hydrology of
Coastal Prairie Freshwater Wetlands. Wetland Science and Practice. 62(3), 12-17.
Doyle, R.D. et. al. 2009. Lake Whitney Comprehensive Water Quality Study, Final Report. Phase IA –
Physical Limnology & Phase IC- Ambient Toxicity. Submitted to EPA, 447pp.
Doyle, R.D. et. al. 2009. Lake Whitney Comprehensive Water Quality Assessment, Phase IB- Physical
and Biological Assessment. Submitted to USDOE, 333 pp.
Doyle, R.D. In Review. Development of Techniques for Establishment of Native Aquatic Vegetation in
the Comal and San Marcos Rivers, TX. Final Report to USFWS (peer reviewed report).
M. Grodowitz, R.D. Doyle, M. Smart, C. Owens. 2004. Hydrellia pakistanae and H. balciunasi- Insect
biocontrol agents for hydrilla: boon or bust? (Peer-reviewed) Proceedings, XI International
Symposium of Biological Control of Weeds in Canberra Australia.
Doyle, R.D. 2001. Effects of inorganic clay turbidity on the growth and reproductive potential of
submersed aquatic macrophytes. Technical Report, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. (peer reviewed report)
Doyle, R.D. 1999. Effects of Waves on the early growth of Vallisneria americana Upper Mississippi
River- Illinois Waterway System Navigation Study. EVN Report 12 (peer reviewed report)
Grodowitz, M., R. D. Doyle and Smart, R.M. 1999. Potential use of Insect Biocontrol Agents for
Reducing the Competitive Ability of Hydrilla verticillata. Misc. Paper A-99-, November 1999.
Smart, R.M., R.D. Doyle, Madsen, J.D., and Dick, G.O. 1996. Establishing native submersed aquatic
plant communities in southern reservoirs. Technical Report A-96-2, U.S. Army Engineer
Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. (peer reviewed report)
Smart, R.M., G. Dick, and R.D. Doyle. 1996. Grass=Bass: Native Aquatic Plants for Fish Habitat (I).
Our Inland Fisheries, Jan/Feb pp 20-24.
Smart, R.M., G. Dick, and R.D. Doyle. 1996. Grass=Bass: Native Aquatic Plants for Fish Habitat (II).
Our Inland Fisheries, March/April pp 70-76.
Smart, R.M., G. Dick, and R.D. Doyle. 1996. Grass=Bass: But Hydrilla is not the solution to habitat
needs. Our Inland Fisheries, May/June pp 71-75.
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart, 1995. Competitive interactions of native plants and nuisance species in
Guntersville Reservoir. Proceedings, 29th Annual Meeting, Aquatic Plant Control Research
Program. Miscellaneous Paper A-95-3, US Army Engineer Waterways Experiments Station,
Vicksburg, MS, pp 237-242.
Dickson, K., R.D. Doyle, and others. 1995. Ray Roberts Lake: Year Six Post-Impoundment
Environmental Study. US Army Corp of Engineers Fort Worth District. 226p.
Doyle R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1995. Potential use of native aquatic plants for long-term control of
problem aquatic plants in Guntersville Reservoir, Alabama; Report 2, Competitive interactions
between beneficial and nuisance species. Technical Report A-93-6, U.S. Army Engineer
Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. (peer reviewed report)
Smart, R. M. and R.D. Doyle, 1995. Ecological Theory and Management of Submersed Aquatic Plant
Communities. Information Exchange Bulletin A-95-3, APCRP, US Army Engineer Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. (peer reviewed report)
Doyle, R.D., and R.M. Smart. 1994. Guntersville reservoir plant competition studies. Proceedings, 28th
Annual Meeting, Aquatic Plant Control Research Program. Miscellaneous Paper A-94-2, US
Army Engineer Waterways Experiments Station, Vicksburg, MS, 138-143.
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1993. Potential Use of Native Aquatic Plants for long-term Control of
Problem Aquatic Plants in Guntersville Reservoir, Alabama. Report 1. Establishing Native
Plants. Technical Report A-93-6., US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station,
Vicksburg, MS, 66p.
Doyle, R.D., and R.M. Smart. 1993. Competitive ability of selected aquatic macrophytes in Lyngbyadominated littoral zones of Guntersville Reservoir. Proceedings, 27th Annual Meeting, Aquatic
Plant Control Research Program. Miscellaneous Paper A-93-2, US Army Engineer Waterways
Experiments Station, Vicksburg, MS, 242-248.
Doyle, R.D., K. Dickson, and D. Sturges. 1993. Created wetlands on Lake Ray Roberts, Texas: design,
pre-impoundment status, and research opportunities. pp 827-834. Landin, M.C. (ed.) Wetlands:
Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference of the Society of Wetland Scientist, New Orleans,
LA. South Central Chapter, Society of Wetland Scientist, Utica, MS. (peer reviewed paper in
proceedings)
Smart, R.M., R.D. Doyle, D. Murphy, and D. Webb. 1993. Establishment of floating-leaved and
emergent wetland vegetation to restore degraded littoral environments. pp 663-667. Landin,
M.C. (ed.) Wetlands: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference of the Society of Wetland
Scientist, New Orleans, LA. South Central Chapter, Society of Wetland Scientist, Utica, MS.
(peer reviewed paper in proceedings)
Lind, O.T., R.D. Doyle, D.S. Vodopich, B.G. Trotter, G. Glass, L. Davalos-Lind, J.G. Limon. 1992.
Lago de Chapala: factores que controlam la produccion de fitoplancton. Ingenieria Hidraulica en
Mexico, 1:17-32.
Fisher, T.R. and R.D. Doyle, 1987. Nutrient cycling in Chesapeake Bay. pps. 49-53 IN G.B. Mackiernan
(ed).Dissolved Oxygen in the Chesapeake Bay: processes and effects. MD Sea Grant Pub. no.
UM-SG-TS-87-03. (peer reviewed)
PRESENTATIONS AT PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCES:
Forbes, MG, J Back, RD Doyle, J Yelderman. 2012. Nutrient Processing Within Coastal Prairie
Wetlands: A Nexus to Galveston Bay, TX. 9th INTECOL International Wetlands Conference,
Orlando, Florida, USA. June 4-8, 2012, (platform presentation)
Doyle, RD., M. Mullins, N. Schell, T. Conry. 2012. Marsh Madness: A Science Education Adventure
Focused On Wetland Environments9th INTECOL International Wetlands Conference, Orlando,
Florida, USA. June 4-8, 2012, (poster presentation)
Doyle, RD. and M. Mullins. 2011. (invited presentation) An Ecologists View of the Pond. Texas Assoc.
of Pond Societies (Dallas, TX Sept 23-25, 2011)
Doyle, RD. and D. Barker. 2010. Biodegradeable Organic Carbon Inputs to Lake Waco, Texas. NALMS
November 3-5, Oklahoma City.
Doyle, RD. 2010. Nutrients in the aquatic environment: impacts to aquatic plants. The 2010 Biological
Control for Nature Conference. Northampton, MA. (Oct 3-7). Invited symposium presentation.
Doyle, RD., MG Forbes, JT Scott. 2010. Spatial patterns of planktonic production and respiration: a test
of reservoir zonation theory. ASLO, June 6-11, Santa Fe, NM.
Forbes, MG, RD Doyle, J Yelderman. 2010. Coastal Prairie Wetlands: Big benefits in small packages.
Soc. Wetland Scientist, June 27-July 2, Salt Lake.
Doyle, RD, JT Scott, M Mullins, N Shell, T Conry. 2009. Will the wetland save the lake? The lake
waco wetland 2003-2009 experience. South-Central Chapter Society of Wetland Scientists,
Denton, TX (invited plenary talk).
Doyle, RD, MG Forbes, TJ Scott. 2009. Spatial patterns of planktonic production and respiration: a test
of reservoir zonation theory. North American Lake Management Society, Hartford, Conn.
Seagraves, SE, M Mullins, M Alexander, and RD Doyle. 2009. A Texas treasure: native aquatic plant
restoration in a spring-fed river. Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society, Baltimore, MD.
Doyle, EI, RD Doyle and G Gonzales. 2009. Health and Drinking Water in Rural Southeast Brazil-A
CBPR Study. American Association of Health Education. Tampa, Florida.
Doyle, E. I., Doyle, R.D., Deike, E., and Hartman, J. 2008. Using the Global School-Based Student
Health Survey among Brazilian Adolescents. SOPHE, October 2008.
Sheppard (Davis) M., Doyle, E.I., Lutz, R., Doyle, R.D., Usdan, S.L. 2008. Mobilizing the community
through community-based participatory research in Brazilian Churches. The American Public
Health Association, 136th Annual Meeting & Exposition (October 25-29, 2008), San Diego, CA
Forbes, M.G, R.D. Doyle, B. Hunter, J. Yelderman, B. Brooks, and S. Usenko. 2008. Evaluating water
quality and water storage functions of coastal prairie freshwater wetlands in the HoustonGalveston Bay area. Soc. Wetland Scientist May, Washington DC, May 26-30.
Nitrogen dynamics along a nitrate concentration gradient in a created freshwater wetland. 2008. R.D.
Doyle, J. Thad Scott, Mark J. McCarthy, Wayne S. Gardner. Soc. Wetland Scientist May,
Washington DC, May 26-30.
Doyle, R.D., M. Forbes, T. Scott, T. Conry. 2008. Water Quality Benefits of the Lake Waco Wetlands.
Invited presentation TCEQ/TOWTRC Annual Meeting, March 4-5, Waco.
Davis, M., Doyle, E. I., Lutz, R., & Doyle, R.D. 2008. A Delphi Study of Key Informants: Can Brazilian
Churches Promote Community Health? Annual Convention of the American Alliance for Health,
Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, Fort Worth, TX, April 8-12, 2008.
Davis, M., Doyle, E.I.,Lutz, R., & Doyle, R.D. 2007. A descriptive look at the health status of Brazilian
church members through the use of community based participatory research. Annual Convention
of the Alabama Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, Birmingham,
AL, November 13, 2007.
Doyle, R.D. M. Forbes, J. Belden, B.W. Brooks. 2007. Quantifying the Water Quality Functions of
Wetlands. Invited presentation, Galveston Bay Estuary Program’s Eighth Biennial State of the
Bay Symposium. Galveston, TX.
Doyle, R.D., M.L. Mullins, Schell N.Y., 2007. Marsh madness: a science education adventure focused
on wetland environments. ASLO, February 2007, Santa Fe, NM.
Huang, H., R.D. Doyle, J.T. Scott, 2007. Spatial and temporal patterns of planktonic and community
metabolism in Texas reservoirs: a test of the reservoir zonation model. ASLO, February 2007,
Santa Fe, NM.
Scott, J.T. Doyle, R.D., Prochnow, S.J., White, J. D., 2007. Watershed and pelagic predictors of
Cyanobacterial n2 fixation in a eutrophic Reservoir. ASLO, February 2007, Santa Fe, NM.
Conry, S., M.L. Mullins, R.D. Doyle. 2007. The distribution and expansion of Arundo donax (giant
reed), an invasive riparian plant species, along the Lake Brazos corridor. Texas Academy of
Science, March 2007, Waco, TX.
Mullins, M.L. R.D. Doyle. 2007. Restoring aquatic plant communities: the San Marcos River
experience. Texas Academy of Science, March 2007, Waco, TX.
Doyle, R.D., M.L. Mullins, 2007. Marsh madness: a science education adventure focused on wetland
environments. Texas Academy of Science, March 2007, Waco, TX.
Scott, T., R.D. Doyle, J. White, S. Prochnow. 2006. Identifying watershed and pelagic thresholds
favoring planktonic N2 fixation in a eutrophic reservoir: A combined mechanistic-empirical
modeling approach. North American Lake Management Society, November 8-11. Indianapolis,
IN.
Mullins, M., and R.D. Doyle, 2006. Aquatic macrophyte restoration in the San Marcos river following
removal of an invasive species. TX Society for Ecological Restoration, August 18-20, Hunt, TX.
Scott, T. and R.D. Doyle. 2006. Identifying watershed and pelagic thresholds favoring planktonic n2
fixation in a eutrophic reservoir: a combined mechanistic-empirical modeling approach.
TRRMS, May 18-19, Austin, TX.
Scott, T. and R.D. Doyle. 2006. Coupled photosynthesis and bacterial biomass production in a nutrientlimited wetland periphyton mat. Society of Wetland Scientists, 27th International Meeting,
Cairns, Australia.
Huang, H., and R.D. Doyle, 2006. Patterns of planktonic and community metabolism along the riverinelacustrine gradient in texas reservoirs. TRRMS, May 18-19, Austin, TX.
Conry, S., M. Mullins, and R.D. Doyle, 2006. Expansion of the invasive riparian plant, the giant reed
(Arundo donax), along the lake brazos corridor. TRRMS, May 18-19, Austin, TX.
Doyle, R.D., M Mullins, P Power, V Cantu, 2005. A Central Texas restoration project-- removal of an
exotic aquatic macrophyte in a spring-fed system. International Spring Symposium, Mexico.
Doyle, R.D. M. Mullins. 2005. Restoration of the lower San Marcos River: Removal of the exotic plant
Cryptocoryne beckettii and re-establishment of natives. (SWS Regional Mtg, San Marcos, TX.)
Doyle, R.D., S. Conry, and J.T. Scott. 2005. Lake Waco Wetland: habitat, research and water quality.
(SWS Regional Mtg, San Marcos, TX.)
J. Thad Scott and Robert D. Doyle, 2005. Enzymatic Controls On Metaphyton Primary Production And
Cnp Stoichiometry In A Created Wetland. TRRMS Annual Meeting, Baylor University.
Scott, J.T. and R. Doyle. 2005. Nitrogen Fixation and natural abundance of nitrogen isotopes in wetland
periphyton communities. (SWS Regional Mtg, San Marcos, TX. Winner student competition w/
airfare to international SWS in Australia!).
Doyle, R.D. J.T. Scott, and T. Conry, 2005. Can the Wetlands Save the Lake? The Role of a
Constructed Wetland in Protecting the Water Quality of Lake Waco. 9th International
Symposium on Biogeochemistry of Wetlands, March 20-23, 2005, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Doyle, R.D., T. Conry, J.T. Scott. 2005. Baylor university Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems
Research (CRASR): promoting interdisciplinary aquatic research and education. ASLO winter
meeting, Salt Lake City.
Doyle, R. D., J.T. Scott, and T. Conry. 2005. Planktonic nitrogen fixation in a texas reservoir: hot spots
and hot moments. ASLO winter meeting, Salt Lake City.
Scott, J.T. R. Doyle, T. Conry. 2005. Periphyton nutrient limitation and nitrogen fixation along a
differential wetland nutrient depletion gradient. ASLO winter meeting, Salt Lake City.
Scott, T., R.D. Doyle, T. Conry. 2004. Periphyton nutrient limitation and nitrogen fixation potential
along a differential n and p depletion gradient in a freshwater marsh. (Society of Wetland
Scientists, Seattle Washington)
Scott, T., R.D. Doyle, T. Conry. 2004. Periphyton nutrient limitation and nitrogen fixation along a
differential wetland nutrient depletion gradient. (Am. Soc. Limnology and Oceanography,
Savannah, GA.)
R.D. Doyle, Scott, T., T. Conry. 2004. Planktonic nitrogen fixation in a texas reservoir: hot spots and hot
moments. (Am. Soc. Limnology and Oceanography, Savannah, GA.)
Scott, T., R.D. Doyle, and T. Conry. 2004. Spatial Trends In Periphyton Nutrient Status: Examination
Along A Differential Nutrient Depletion Gradient In A Freshwater Marsh. (TX Academy of
Science Meeting, Kerrville, TX)
Swindle, R. and R.D. Doyle, Baylor University, 2004. Macrophyte Community Change In The San
Marcos And Comal River. (TX Academy of Science Meeting, Kerrville, TX)
Doyle, R.D. and T. Conry. 2004. Planktonic Nitrogen Fixation In Lake Waco: Hot Spots And Hot
Moments. (TX Academy of Science Meeting, Kerrville, TX)
Scott, T., R.D. Doyle, T. Conry. 2003. Periphyton Response to Total Nutrient Depletion and Shifting
N:P Ratio in a Constructed Freshwater Wetland. (International conference of the Society of
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Austin, TX).
Scott, T., R.D. Doyle, T. Conry. 2003. The impact of shifting N:P ratio on periphyton function along a
nutrient depletion gradient in a constructed freshwater marsh. Annual meeting of the South
Central Chapter of the Society of Wetland Scientists, Lake Texoma, OK.
Doyle, R.D. and Power, P. 2003. Expansion of Cryptocoryne beckettii on the San Marcos River of
Texas threatens Zizania texana, a federally listed aquatic plant species. Texas Watch Flood
Symposium, San Marcos, TX (invited paper).
Doyle, R.D. 2003. The bad guys win again: impacts of a major flood disturbance on the aquatic plant
community of a spring-fed river. 7th International Conference on the Ecology and Management
of Alien Plant Invasions, Ft Lauderdale, November.
Doyle, R.D. & P. Power. 2003. Expansion of Cryptocoryne beckettii on the San Marcos River of Texas
threatens Zizania texana, a federally listed aquatic plant species. 7th International Conference on
the Ecology and Management of Alien Plant Invasions, Ft Lauderdale, November.
Doyle, R.D. & P. Power, 2003. Texas Wildrice (Zizania texana) of the San Marcos River, TX: Can this
species be saved? International meeting of the Society of Wetland Scientists, New Orleans, LA.
Doyle, R.D. T. Scott, T. Conry, R. Howard, 2003. Can the wetland save the Lake? International
meeting of the Society of Wetland Scientists, New Orleans, LA.
Doyle, R.D. 2003. Ecological restoration of Texas aquatic plant communities: establishing desirable
native species. TX Academy of Sciences.
Doyle, R.D. 2002. Control of Cryptocoryne beckettii on the San Marcos River, options and progress. TX
Aquatic Plant Management Society, Conroe, TX.
Doyle, R.D. 2002. Cryptocoryne beckettii: A Apretty@ aquarium plant threatens endangered aquatic
plant species in the San Marcos River, TX. Aquatic Plant Management Society, Keystone,
Colorado.
Doyle. R.D., M. Grodowitz, R.M. Smart, and C. Owens. 2001. Impacts of Hydrellia pakistanae on the
growth and photosynthetic potential of Hydrilla verticillata. TX Aquatic Plant Management
Society, Victoria, TX.
M. Grodowitz and R. Doyle. 2001. Introduction to Biocontrol. TX Aquatic Plant Management Society,
Victoria, TX.
Doyle. R.D. and P. Power. 2001. Ecology and management of Zizania texana (Texas Wild Rice), an
endangered aquatic macrophyte of the San Marcos River, Texas. Ecological Society of America.
Doyle. R.D., M. Grodowitz, R.M. Smart, and C. Owens. 2001. Impacts of Hydrellia pakistanae on the
growth and photosynthetic potential of Hydrilla verticillata. Aquatic Plant Management Society,
Minneapolis MN.
Doyle, R.D. and R.M.Smart. 2001. Hydrilla verticillata: distribution, impacts, and ecological
considerations for the control of this exotic aquatic macrophyte. 104th Annual meeting, Texas
Academy of Science, San Marcos, TX (invited presentation)
Doyle, R.D. and P. Power. 2001.Ecology and management of Texas Wild Rice and the aquatic plant
community of the San Marcos River, Texas. 104th Annual meeting, Texas Academy of Science,
San Marcos, TX (invited presentation)
Doyle, R.D. and M. Smart. 2000. Flood disturbance increase abundance of non-native aquatic
macrophytes in Texas rivers. 20th International Symposium of the North American Lake
Management Society, (Miami, FL).
Doyle, R.D. 2000 Potential control of Hydrilla verticillata by use of an insect biocontrol agent in
combination with a competitive native species. TX Aquatic Plant Management Society (Denton,
TX).
Doyle, R.D., M. Smart, M. Grodowitz. 2000. Potential control of Hydrilla verticillata by use of a
classical biocontrol agent in combination with a competitive native species. III International
Weed Science Congress, invited presentation, (Iguacu, Brazil).
Doyle, R.D. and M. Francis. 2000. Impact of the flood of 1998 on the aquatic plant communities of the
Comal and San Marcos rivers, TX. 103rd Meeting Texas Academy of Science (Kingsville, TX).
Doyle, R.D., 1999. Protecting the Native Aquatic Plant Communities of the Comal and San Marcos
River, TX. 39th International Meeting of the Aquatic Plant Management Society (Asheville, NC.)
Grodowitz, M., R.D. Doyle, R. M. Smart. 1999. Effects of biocontrol agents on the competitive
interactions between nuisance exotics and desirable native aquatic plants. 39th International
Meeting of the Aquatic Plant Management Society (Asheville, NC.).
Doyle, R.D., P. Power, and K. Kennedy. 1999. Assessment of Reintroduction Potential of Texas
Wildrice (Zizania texana) into the San Marcos River. Wild Rice: Research and Management
Conference, (Duluth, MN.)
Francis, M. and R.D. Doyle. 1998. Intraspecific competition between Hygrophila polysperma and
Ludwigia repens in the Comal River, New Braunfels, TX (Denton, TX).
Pennington, T., A.W. Groeger, P.Power, and R.D. Doyle. 1998. Identifying nutrient content and
composition to further characterize the habitat associated with the endangered Texas Wildrice
(Zizania texana Hitch). Texas River and Reservoir Management Society (Denton, TX).
Doyle, R.D. P. Power, P. Connor. 1998. Assisted Recovery of Texas Wildrice (Zizania texana) in the
San Marcos River. Society of Ecological Restoration (Austin, TX).
Smart, R.M.,. G. Dick, and R.D. Doyle. 1998. Ecological Effects of Native Aquatic Plants. 38th Meeting
of the Aquatic Plant Management Society (Memphis, TN)
Grodowitz, R.M., R.D. Doyle, M. Smart. 1998. Effects of biocontrol agents on the competitive
interactions between nuisance exotics and desirable native aquatic plants. 38th Meeting of the
Aquatic Plant Management Society ( Memphis, TN).
Forbes, M., R. Doyle, T. Conry, H. Chen. 1998. Wetland creation in Sugarland, TX: building a
hydrophytic community. Society of Wetland Scientist (Memphis, TN)
Doyle, R.D. 1998. Effects of inorganic turbidity on the growth and reproductive potential of native
macrophytes. American Society of Limnology and Oceanography (St. Louis, MO).
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1997. Role of aquatic macrophytes in reservoir ecosystems.17th
International Symposium of the North American Lake Management Society, (Houston, TX)
Doyle, R.D. 1997. Effects of inorganic turbidity on the growth and reproductive potential of native
macrophytes. Aquatic Plant Management Society Meeting (Fort Meyers, Florida.)
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1996. Establishing Native Vegetation in Southern Reservoirs: Why and
How. Aquatic Plant Management Society Meeting, (Burlington, VT)
Doyle, R.D., R. M. Smart, G.O. Dick, and M. Webb. 1996. Ecological restoration of Lake Conroe, TX:
Establishment of native submersed aquatic macrophytes. Texas Academy of Sciences.
Galveston.
Doyle, R.D., and R.M. Smart. 1995. Restoration and rehabilitation of Texas reservoirs: the role of native
aquatic macrophytes. North American Lake Management Society 15th International Symposium.
(Toronto, Canada)
Smart and R.D. Doyle. 1995. Propagation and planting of desirable aquatic plant species. Texas Aquatic
Plant Management Society. (Galveston, TX)
Doyle, R.D., R.M. Smart, and C. Guest. 1995. Establishing native macrophytes for fish habitat in North
Texas Reservoirs. Texas Chapter American Fisheries Society. (College Station, TX)
Doyle, R.D. 1995. Hydrilla infestations in Texas Reservoirs: The problem of controlling dormant tubers.
Texas Academy of Science. (Waco, TX)
Doyle, R.D. 1994. Establishment of native submersed aquatic plants in Texas reservoirs for habitat
enhancement. Texas River and Reservoir Management Society Meeting. (Waco, TX)
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1994. Field tests of the use of native aquatic plants to control Eurasian
watermilfoil in a southeastern reservoir. North American Lake Management Society 14th Annual
International Symposium, (Orlando, FL)
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1994. Native Emergent Macrophytes may ameliorate the negative impacts
of Lyngbya. North American Lake Management Society 14th Annual International Symposium,
(Orlando, FL)
Smart, R.M. and R.D. Doyle. 1994. Establishment of native submersed aquatic plants and their potential
for resisting invasion by exotic, weedy species. North American Lake Management Society 14th
Annual International Symposium, (Orlando, FL)
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1994. Use of Native Aquatic Plants for Control of Nuisance Species in
Guntersville Reservoir, Alabama. The Aquatic Plant Management Society, Thirty-Fourth Annual
Meeting, (San Antonio, TX)
Power, P., and R.D. Doyle. 1994. Carbon sources for submerged leaves of the endangered Zizania
texana (Texas Wildrice). The Aquatic Plant Management Society, Thirty-Fourth Annual
Meeting, (San Antonio, TX)
Doyle, R.D., T. Myers, and D. Adrian. 1993. Atrazine Retention and Disappearance in Experimental
Wetland Mesocosms. 2nd Biennial Symposium on Biogeochemistry of Wetlands. (LSU)
Doyle, R.D. and R.M. Smart. 1993. Competitive ability of selected aquatic macrophytes in Lyngbya
infested areas of Lake Guntersville, AL. North American Lake Management Society Conference.
(Chattanooga, TN)
Doyle, R.D. 1993. Creating wetlands at Lake Ray Roberts: objectives, design, vegetation, and cost.
Texas Lake and Reservoir Management Society Annual Conference. (Dallas, TX)
Doyle, R.D., and T.R. Fisher. 1992. Biomass and nitrogen uptake of macrophyte/periphyton complex in
an Amazon floodplain lake. INTECOL's IV International Wetlands Conference. (Columbus, OH)
Doyle, R.D., and M. Smart. 1992. Establishment success and competitive ability of selected aquatic
macrophytes in Lyngbya-dominated littoral zones of Guntersville, Alabama. Mid-South Aquatic
Plant Management Society Meeting. (Guntersville, AL)
Doyle, R.D., K. Dickson, D. Sturges, and M. Smart. 1992. Created wetlands on Lake Ray Roberts, TX:
Design, pre-impoundment status, and research opportunities. Soc. of Wetland Scientists, (New
Orleans, LA)
Doyle, R.D. 1992. Nitrogen fixation by periphyton on the Amazon floodplain. ASLO, (Santa Fe, NM)
Fisher, T.R., R.D. Doyle, M. Moline, and D.L. Engle. 1990. Ecology of periphyton on the Amazon
floodplain. Symp. Floodplain Rivers. (LSU. Baton Rouge, LA)
Doyle, R.D., and T.R. Fisher. 1988. Photosynthesis and respiration of periphyton on the Amazon
floodplain. ASLO/AGU Ocean Science Meeting (Dec).
Fisher, T.R., L. Alves, R.D. Doyle, M. Moline, E. Peele, L. Smith-Morrill. 1988. Periphyton on the
Amazon River floodplain. ASLO/AGU.
Fisher, T.R., E.R. Peele, and R.D. Doyle. 1988. Phosphorus Dynamics in the Chesapeake Bay.
ASLO/AGU
Fisher, T.R., L. Smith-Morrill, R.D. Doyle, and E.R. Peele. 1988. Productivity and nutrient cycling on
the Amazon's floodplain. Chapman Conference on Amazon Dispersal Systems.
Doyle, R.D., T.R. Fisher, and E.R. Peele. 1987. Biomass and productivity of periphyton on the
Amazon's floodplain. ASLO.
Fisher, T.R., R.D. Doyle, and E.R. Peele. 1987. Uptake and regeneration of phosphate on the Amazon's
floodplain. ASLO.
Fisher, T.R., R.D. Doyle, and E.R. Peele. 1987. Size-fractionated uptake and regeneration of ammonium
and phosphate in a tropical lake. SIL Congress. New Zealand.
Fisher, T.R. and R.D. Doyle, 1987. Nutrient cycling in Chesapeake Bay. MD Sea Grant conference on
PART III. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP AND SERVICE
oxygen in the Chesapeake Bay and related processes.
Fisher, T.R. and R.D. Doyle. 1986. N and P cycling in an Amazon River floodplain lake. Freshwater
Wetlands and Wildlife Symp. Univ. of Georgia.
Doyle, R.D. and L. Davalos. 1985. Phytoplankton production in a large tropical lake (Lago Calado,
Mexico) II. factors controlling biomass and production. 48th ASLO meeting.
MEMBERSHIP IN PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:
American Society of Limnology and Oceanography,
Society of Wetlands Scientist,
Aquatic Plant Management Society,
North American Lake Management Society,
Society for Ecological Restoration
Texas River and Reservoir Management Society,
Texas Aquatic Plant Management Society,
Texas Academy of Sciences, Fellow
EDITORIAL AND REVIEW ACTIVITIES:
Associate Editor: (2000-2002)
Associate Editor of Wetlands (peer reviewed journal of the Society of Wetlands Scientists)
Manuscript Reviewer for Journals:
Aquatic Botany. (International peer-review journal, highest rated journal in aquatic botany field).
Lake and Reservoir Management. (Peer-reviewed journal of the North American Lake
Management Society)
Journal of Aquatic Plant Management, (Peer-reviewed journal of the Aquatic Plant Management
Society).
Wetlands (Peer-reviewed journal of the Society Wetland Scientists).
Hydrobiologia (International peer-review journal).
Sida: Contributions to Botany, (National peer-review journal).
Journal of Environmental Quality (International peer-reviewed journal)
Estuaries (International peer-reviewed journal)
Science of the Total Environment (peer-reviewed journal)
Grant Reviews:
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
UNT/Baylor Faculty Research Grant Reviewer.
International Technical Referee, New Zealand Foundation for Research, Science and
Technology. New Zealand Aquatic Plant Management Program Review (1998-2000)
Technical Review Panel, Ohio Sea Grant Program.
Technical Review Panel, Western Region=s Water Resources Research Competitive Grants
Program.
Technical Review Panel, EPA Region 6.
Other Review Activities:
USDA, Manuscript peer reviewer.
US Army Engineers Waterways Experiment Station, Technical Reviewer
CURRENT MEMBER OF STATE AND FEDERAL TECHNICAL WORKING GROUPS
EPA Regional Technical Assistance Group (RTAG) for Nutrient Criteria (the RTAG provides guidance
to the States in developing numeric criteria for N and P as mandated under the Clean Water
Action Plan)
USFWS San Marcos River Recovery Team (Advisory Team, a group of recognized experts in science,
policy, and law that provide direction for efforts to restore the San Marcos River).
USFWS Texas Wildrice Recovery Team (group of recognized experts in the ecology of the endangered
Texas Wildrice Zizania texana, working to restore the endangered aquatic plant to the San
Marcos River, TX. ).
Cryptocoryne beckettii Eradication Working group- group of scientists that provide direction for efforts
to eradicate this species from the San Marcos River.
OFFICES AND COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS IN PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:
National/International Organizations
1997-2001
Aquatic Plant Management Society, Liaison to the North Am. Lake Man. Society
1997
North American Lake Management Society, (Chair Conference Planning
Committee for 17th International Symposium).
1997
North American Lake Management Society. 17th International Symposium,
Houston, TX. (Program Chair)
State/Regional Organizations
2007
Host organizing committee, TX Academy of Sciences.
2000-2003
TX Aquatic Plant Management Society, Board of Directors
2000
Chair program committee of the TX Aquatic Plant Management Society
1998- 2001
Texas River and Reservoir Management Society. Past-Pres. and Chair of
Nominating Committee
1998- 2000
Texas Academy of Science, Board of Directors
1998
Texas River and Reservoir Management Society (Member of Coordinating
Committee that organized the annual meeting of the society at UNT)
1997
Texas River and Reservoir Management Society, President and member
“NALMS 97" Conference Coordinating Committee.
1997
EPA Region 6 Second Watershed Conference, Denton (Coordinating Committee)
1994-1997
Texas River and Reservoir Management Society, Board of Directors.
1996
North American Lake Management Society Region 6, Fort Worth, TX (Program
Chair of First Regional Conference)
EXPERT PARTICIPATION:
2005 National Research Panel to Evaluate Needs of Invasive Aquatic Plant Management in North
America, invited expert (La Jolla, CA, 2005).
2004 Restoration and Management of Riparian Corridors, TAES Blackland Research Center, invited
instructor on stream restoration.
2004 San Marcos Recovery Team
2003 Golden Algae Workshop, TPWD 10/24-25, Fort Worth, TX (invited participant)
1998 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Aquatic Vegetation Committee, ABass n= Grass@, forum
for discussion of effects of vegetation on reservoir fisheries (invited aquatic vegetation expert).
1998 US Army COE, AUpper Mississippi River Project: Plant Modeling Workshop@, Oak Ridge, TN,
(invited expert on the effects of inorganic turbidity on growth of submersed macrophytes).
1997 US Army COE, AModeling Integration and Simulation Team Meeting@, New Orleans, LA.
(invited to provide information on the affects of clay turbidity on the growth of aquatic plants).
1997 Maryland Department of Natural Resources, AChesapeake Bay Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Re-seeding and Transplanting Workshop@, Belvue, MD., (invited national aquatic plant expert).
1996 Southwest Florida Water Management District, ARainbow River - Lyngbya Workshop@,
Gainesville, FL., (invited expert on the use of macrophytes to control mat-forming algae).
1996 US Army COE, AUpper Mississippi River Project: Plant Modeling Workshop@, Oak Ridge, TN,
(invited expert on the effects of inorganic turbidity on growth of submersed macrophytes).
1996 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, ASan Marcos and Comal Spring Ecosystem Viability
Assessment and Management Planning: Texas Wild-rice Group@, Austin, TX. (invited aquatic
plant expert).
1995 US EPA National Conference for Enhancing the State=s Lake Management Programs, Chicago,
(representative of the Texas River and Reservoir Management Society, Texas= NALMS
affiliate)
1994 4th Annual Review Meeting of the Guntersville Joint Agency Project (Tennessee Valley
Authority - Corps of Engineers), Vicksburg, MS, (participant)
1994 US Army COE Aquatic Plant Control Research Program, Vicksburg, MS (research presentation)
1993 US Army COE Aquatic Plant Control Research Program, Baltimore MD (research presentation)
1993 3rd Annual Review Meeting of the Guntersville Joint Agency Project (Tennessee Valley
Authority - Corps of Engineers), Guntersville, AL, (technical paper presentation and participant)
1992 US Army Corps of Engineer Aquatic Plant Control Research Program, Bellevue, WA. (technical
paper presentation and participant)
1992 2nd Annual Review Meeting of the Guntersville Joint Agency Project (Tennessee Valley
Authority - Corps of Engineers), Guntersville, Alabama, (technical paper presentation)
PART IV. TEACHING AND STUDENT DEVELOPMENT
COURSES TAUGHT AT BAYLOR
Although I currently have a high administrative load (Chair Department of Biology (50%) and Director
Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research (12.5%)) I continue to teach at least one course
most semester. I very much enjoy teaching and my student evaluations always exceed comparison
norms.
Co-director, Baylor in Brazil Summer Abroad (2006-2011)
Dr. Eva Doyle and I direct a summer abroad educational program.
Courses taught at Baylor on a regular rotation:
Wetland Ecology and Management (Bio 5304), graduate course
Restoration Ecology (Bio 4381), Senior level course for majors
Principles of Biology II (Bio 1306), Freshman level course for majors
Other courses taught
Stream Ecology, Senior level majors’ course
Ecology, Junior level majors’ course
COURSES TAUGHT AT UNT
Aquatic Botany (BIOL 5040, 4 credit hour graduate course in aquatic plant ecology)
Wetland Ecology (UNT= BIOL 5040/4980, 4 credit hour course, senior and graduate level)
Environmental Health. (UNT= BIOL 5200, 3 hour graduate course).
Principles of Biology II (UNT BIOL 1720/1722, Botany/Ecology Section- introductory majors
biology course)
THESIS/DISSERTATION ADVISEMENT:
Chair or Co-Chair, Advisory Committee
Melissa Mullins (PhD, ongoing BU)
Rachel Bormann (M.S. ongoing BU)
Thad Scott (Ph.D., 2006 BU)
Hui Huang (M.S., 2006 BU)
Robin Bare (M.A. 2005 BU)
Shannon Mandolin (M.S. Env Studies, 2004 BU)
Maggie Forbes (Ph.D. 2002 UNT co-advisor)
Tessy Baugher (MS, 2001 UNT)
JoEtta Smith (MS, 2001UNT)
Joe Snow (MS, 2000 UNT)
Matt Francis (MS, 1999 UNT)
PUBLIC EDUCATION:
2003-10
Master Naturalist training- HOT chapter.
2002
Baylor University Continuing Education- AAquatic Ecosystems
1998-99
Instructor for AMaster Naturalist Program of North Texas offered by Texas Agriculture
Extension Service. Six hour course on Aquatic Ecology.
1998
Instructor for Master Gardner- Ecologist Training offered by Texas Agriculture
Extension Service, Denton, TX.
1996
Instructor for short course offered at the American Fisheries Society Meeting, Mobile,
AL. Feb 24-25. AMethods for Establishing Native Aquatic Plants for Fisheries Benefits
OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES:
2001-present
City of Waco Lake Waco Wetland Advisory Board
1998-2001
Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area Board of Directors, Board
Member
1997-2001
Heard Museum Environmental Education Board (McKinney, TX)
1992-1996
Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area Board of Directors & President.

BIO-WEST Riffle Beetle Habitat Connectivity Study

Transcription

Similar documents

THE TEXAS HEAD START DIRECTORS` ROUNDTABLE

Wednesday, Dec. 12, 11 am to 1 pm Texins Activity Center

Aquatic Physical Therapy - Center for Spine and Sports Rehab

College Prep 8/23/2013 - IDEA Public Schools / Homepage

pullen aquatic center pullen aquatic center

Threadgill`s – South Austin, Texas

Camp Manitoqua Aquatic Center - Iprm Construction Management

Riparian Flyer – Pedernales River on December 5, 2015

Uchee Creek

Cotton Defoliation Turn Row Meeting