Project T-133-R1

​Project Title: Updating Illinois Stream Biological Characterizations and Assessments Using Species Distribution Modeling

Community and/or Species Focus: Fish, mussels and EPT insects

1. Revise the Biological Streams Characterization (BSC) assessment to increase both its robustness in characterizing stream integrity and applicability to a greater number of Illinois streams
2. Revise the Biological Significant Streams (BSS) assessment to increase both its robustness in characterizing stream integrity and applicability to a greater number of Illinois streams
3. Characterize Illinois stream reaches using the revised assessments

1. ​Improved understanding of diversity, integrity, and spatial configuration of biological assemblages within Illinois running waters
2. Improved ability to assess novel sites, or re-assess previously visited sites, using updated BSC and BBS assessment methods
3. Facilitation of stakeholder prioritization of Illinois running waters based on multiple assessment metrics and their intended purposes/objectives
4. Increased understanding of state-wide biodiversity sampling needs relative to past sampling locations and efforts

Post-Project Survey (if applicable): n/a

Project Period: 1/1/21 - 12/31/23

Principle Investigator(s):

Final Report: Project is currently underway; "Achievements" are projections of what is to be accomplished.