Abstract
 Using GIS to Map Invasive Aquatic Plants in Connecticut Lakes Track: Ecology and Conservation Author(s): Roslyn Selsky, Gregory Bugbee, Jason White The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station's (CAES) Invasive Aquatic Plant Program (IAPP) is using GIS to determine the distribution of invasive aquatic plants in Connecticut lakes and ponds. In a first-of-its-kind survey in Connecticut, locations of plant species were recorded using a Trimble GeoXT and then downloaded to ArcGIS 9. Observed plant areas, converted into georeferenced polygons, were also added to the map. These maps are used on CAES IAPP's website (http://www.caes.state.ct.us/aquaticplants/) to educate the public on the subject of invasive aquatic plants, to provide baseline data useful in determining how native aquatic plant communities change in response to invasion, and to track the spread of invasive aquatic plants in Connecticut water bodies. GIS models will be used to predict future invasions in Connecticut lakes and ponds by comparing factors such as water chemistry, land use, and sediment type with successful invasions. Ultimately, GIS data will be used in the management of invasive aquatic plants in Connecticut. Roslyn Selsky The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Invasive Aquatic Plant Program, Soil and Water 123 Huntington St. P.O. Box 1106 New Haven , CT 06504 US Phone: (203) 974-8545 Fax: (203) 974-8502 E-mail: roslyn.selsky@po.state.ct.us Gregory Bugbee Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Invasive Aquatic Plant Program, Soil and Water 123 Huntington St. P.O. Box 1106 New Haven , CT 06504 US Phone: 203-974-8512 E-mail: gregory.bugbee@po.state.ct.us Jason White Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Invasive Aquatic Plant Program, Soil and Water 123 Huntington St. P.O. Box 1106 New Haven , CT 06504 US Phone: 203-974-8523 E-mail: jason.white@po.state.ct.us |
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