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. This project will evaluate the ecological condition of the tuolumne river downstream of hetch hetchy reservoir, focusing on harmful algal blooms and habitat quality. Researchers will collect and analyze data on benthic algae, aquatic insects, water chemistry, and physical habitat characteristics, comparing results to two reference sites. Laboratory analysis will include species identification, biomass measurements, and algal composition studies. Findings will inform management strategies to protect river health and biodiversity. Beneficiaries include state and local governments, federally recognized indian tribal governments, public private nonprofit organizations, nonprofit institutions of higher education, and the general public).