Comparisons of parameters among systems at various stages of recovery will allow indicators of wetland health to be developed. S.C. The bottomland hardwood floodplain and large portions of the cypress tupelo swamp delta were denuded by thermal effluents from cooling waters used in nuclear production. Comparisons of populations and processes across successional gradients allow the effects of disturbance and restoration activities to be evaluated. Knowledge gained from the above studies will enable future restoration efforts to be more efficiently and effectively performed and evaluated. Once the results of past, ongoing and planned research are integrated, we will have a holistic ecosystem view of the biotic and abiotic parameters that have the most promise as wetland function indicators.
Unimpacted bays vary both hydrologically and in their vegetation community assemblages.
The practical value of land management alternatives for restoration, in terms of meeting specific species, population or community objectives, are largely unknown. Considering the ecological significance of Carolina bays, few studies have been conducted on restored bay systems. Research is needed to enhance our ability to predict outcomes of restorations in Carolina bays. Through the cooperation of the SRI and others at the SRS, the Center is initiating a new project addressing Carolina bay restoration. Similar to the Bottomland Hardwood Restoration Project, the Carolina Bay Restoration Project will focus on ecosystem level processes that are occurring as succession proceeds.