Iatt Creek in Kisatchie National Forest is the site of a pilot study to develop effective wetland restoration techniques as part of a new BRD science initiative. BRD is joining other Federal and State agencies, academic and private organizations, and the timber industry to conduct studies of southern forested wetlands, a valuable but disappearing ecosystem and an important economic resource. The BRD has joined forces with Louisiana Land and Exploration and the Fina LaTerre Oil and Chemical Company to identify how their water management affects saltwater and freshwater species. Resultant data will enable many companies to reduce the effects of their activities on Louisiana land loss. The BRD has a series of studies on Caddo Lake, a unique wetland in northwest Louisiana and a critical resting site for two declining warbler species during migration.
Studies focus on water quality and monitoring of plant and animal diversity.
BRD staff members are on the steering committee for the Lower Mississippi Valley Natural Resources Partnership. The Partnership expands seven states and comprises private landowners, conservation and environmental organizations, and local, State, and Federal agencies interested in sustaining natural resources for the betterment of the region. Researchers are providing assistance to land managers in the revegetation, restoration, and management of the Gulf coastal prairie. Projects include evaluating planting procedures, controlling invasive species, studying effects of fire on management, and identifying community processes. Over the past 5 years, BRD has participated in activities related to the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act.