Exploring the Effects of Non-Native Plants and Climate Change on New York’s Wetlands: What You Need to Know

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Receives Grant for Coastal Wetlands Research

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) has secured a $217,070 grant from the New York Sea Grant to study coastal wetlands. This important project is headed by Dr. Emily Arsenault and Dr. John Farrell from the Department of Environmental Biology. Their goal is to enhance the health of juvenile fish and improve the resilience of these ecosystems.

Coastal wetlands play a vital role by providing food and shelter for various species, especially during environmental disturbances. However, these critical areas face threats like invasive aquatic plants, climate change, and the management of water levels through dams. For instance, in the St. Lawrence River, the native northern pike has been pushed to spawn in deeper areas due to the invasive hybrid cattail and water regulation practices.

Cranberry Lake, which is part of the Adirondacks and linked to the river, offers a more favorable environment for northern pike. Unlike the St. Lawrence, Cranberry Lake’s ecosystem remains relatively intact, making it an ideal comparison site for this research.

The researchers will analyze how non-native plants, climate change, and human interventions, like dam management, affect the ecosystem’s structure and function. They aim to uncover how these factors alter the availability of habitat and food for wetland species, particularly northern pike. Their findings may inform better management practices for maintaining healthy wetlands throughout New York State.

Dr. Arsenault notes, “Northern pike are facing habitat decline in wetlands now dominated by non-native plants; however, those in Cranberry Lake thrive among native vegetation.” By contrasting these two ecosystems, the project seeks to find solutions that can cultivate sustainable wetlands across the region.

Dr. Becky Shuford, Director of New York Sea Grant, expressed support for this important research, emphasizing its potential to advance understanding and management of northern pike populations in New York.

Recent studies show that wetland ecosystems contribute significantly to biodiversity and help in climate adaptation by acting as natural buffers against flooding. As climate change progresses, learning how to protect these ecosystems becomes increasingly urgent. Statistics from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate that over 50% of original wetlands in the U.S. have been lost due to human activity. The fight to protect what remains is crucial.

Overall, the project at ESF represents a proactive step in preserving crucial habitats and ensuring that both wildlife and communities can thrive in a changing environment.

For more insights on environmental conservation, check out New York Sea Grant and the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry here.

Check out this related article: RBWM Under Fire: Is the Council Failing to Meet Climate Target Responsibilities?

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Newswise, Climate Change;coastal wetlands;northern pike;St. Lawrence River;Adirondacks;Invasive Species;habitat decline, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry