National Wetlands Research Center
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National Wetlands Research Center (NWRC) is a leading U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) science center dedicated to wetland research, located in Lafayette, Louisiana. It focuses on providing scientific knowledge for the conservation and management of wetlands.
Goals
- To enhance understanding of wetland ecology, function, and conservation needs.
- To develop tools and technologies for wetland assessment, restoration, and management.
- To inform policy and decision-making processes through comprehensive wetland science.
Success metrics include the number of research publications, policy impacts, and the application of research in wetland management projects.
Organization
NWRC is part of the USGS Ecosystems Mission Area, specifically within the Wetland and Aquatic Research Center (WARC). It is led by a center director, with funding coming from USGS allocations and various grants. The center collaborates with other federal, state, and academic institutions.
Impact and Outcomes
- **Quantitative**: NWRC has contributed to numerous scientific publications and has influenced several conservation and restoration projects. - **Qualitative**: Its research has led to better-informed policies for wetland protection and ecosystem management.
Challenges include funding stability and the integration of research into practical applications.
Background and History
Founded in 1975 as part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Office of Biological Services, NWRC moved under the USGS in 1994. Its mission has evolved from focusing solely on coastal ecosystems to encompassing a broader range of wetland research. There's no planned end date for NWRC, as the need for wetland science is ongoing.
- Funding**:
- Funding comes from the USGS budget, with additional support possibly from external grants. - Exact funding amounts are not delineated specifically for NWRC but are part of broader USGS research funding.
Implementation
NWRC conducts research through various projects, often in collaboration with other agencies or universities. Research includes field studies, lab work, and the development of geospatial tools for wetland analysis. The program has no defined end date, reflecting its continuous role in environmental science.
- Leadership**:
- The position of the leader is **Center Director**.
See Also
External Links
- https://www.usgs.gov/centers/wetland-and-aquatic-research-center
- https://www.usgs.gov/centers/wetland-and-aquatic-research-center/science/national-wetlands-research-center
- Wikipedia Article**:
- wikipedia:National Wetlands Research Center
Social media
- No specific social media accounts for the National Wetlands Research Center were found.