Research

The Grand Bay NERR has developed an extensive and dynamic research program that provides scientifically-based data to inform management strategies for the conservation of critical coastal resources.

Our current focus areas are: (1) Ecological Effects of Sea Level Rise, (2) Ecology of Tidal Marsh Vertebrates, (3) Ecology of Unique Habitats, (4) Monitoring Ecosystem Effects of Mercury, (5) Coastal Plant Ecology and Mapping, and (6) Long-term Monitoring of Environmental Conditions. These focus areas are based on current knowledge; needs and data gaps identified in our Site Profile; research issues resulting from conceptual ecosystem models developed in collaboration with the NOAA Environmental Cooperative Science Center; areas of Reserve Staff expertise; and opportunities for collaboration with universities, research laboratories, and government scientists.

Thus far, our efforts have focused on the implementation of various monitoring programs (water quality, meteorological conditions, nutrients, nekton, marsh birds, etc.), conducting status surveys and inventories for flora and fauna found around the Reserve and compiling data gaps and research needs, to be used in the development of a comprehensive, long-term research strategy.

For a current, comprehensive summary of our ecological knowledge of the Grand Bay NERR, please see our Site Profile.

To date, over 70 research projects have involved Reserve Staff or utilized data collected from the Reserve.  Please see our Current Projects to learn more.