Abstract

Geocollaborative Tools to Support Springs Research and Stewardship
Track: Water Resources
Authors: Jeri Ledbetter

Springs are ecosystems where groundwater flows from the Earth. Although traditionally poorly mapped, studied, and managed, springs function as hotspots of biodiversity and support a wide array of rare and endemic taxa. To assist land managers with improved understanding and stewardship of springs ecosystems, we developed sophisticated online applications and standardized protocols that allow researchers, agencies, Tribes, and NGOs to contribute and share information about springs ecosystems.