Programming supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitate cooperative research, technical assistance, education, and training to inform science-based management of the…

Programming supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitate cooperative research, technical assistance, education, and training to inform science-based management of the national park system. The study units facilitate multi-disciplinary science and integrated information products across multiple geographic regions of the national park system. Specific objectives are to a) continue to quantify density and biomass of zebra mussels on shoals surrounding and within the park, which we have shown to act as sentinel systems b) search, quantify, and remove zebra mussels from critical park infrastructure or related areas primarily including docks and mooring areas c) work with local youth to increase awareness through underwater photography. Beneficiaries include state and local governments, federally recognized indian tribal governments, public private nonprofit organizations, nonprofit institutions of higher education, and the general public).