Developing agricultural practices that improve water quality while protecting other environmental values and the economic viability of citrus and beef cattle operations will require high-quality data on the implications of alternative management practices. A comprehensive study of alternative nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation practices on groundwater quality in central Florida citrus groves is underway. A Geographic Information System under development will aid in the integration and synthesis of all research and planning projects at the Ranch. A synthesis of information from these projects offers key data for realizing economically as well as environmentally viable ranches in central Florida. Wildlife Research .
Wildlife is an important and valuable component of central Florida's ranch ecosystems.
This flagship species is an outstanding example of how cattle ranches provide habitat for native species. System-wide Collaboration . Protection and restoration of natural areas is a major conservation issue in Florida. David Anderso n is examining the dynamics of invertebrate populations in the pre-restoration floodplain of the Kissimmee River. Bruce Dugger is studying waterfowl populations in the pre-restoration floodplain of the Kissimmee River.