DEVELOPMENT OF ASSESSMENT METHODS IN SUPPORT OF USGS INTEGRATED SCIENCE – WYOMING LANDSCAPE CONSERVATION INITIATIVE

The U.S. Geological Survey is investigating ways in which the Mineral Resources Program’s information, data, and expertise can be applied to high priority USGS integrated science projects. This effort is intended to provide support for the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative (WLCI), an interagency and interdisciplinary effort in which the USGS is participating. The WLCI is a long-term science based effort to assess and enhance aquatic and terrestrial habitats at a landscape scale in southwestern Wyoming, while facilitating responsible development through local collaboration and partnerships. The primary goals of the WLCI are; 1) Exchange information, data, and research findings among partners, industry, and stakeholders to improve habitat conditions and long-term viability of species at a landscape scale; and 2) Complement existing habitat reclamation and mitigation efforts. Ongoing studies within the Mineral Resources Program in support of the WLCI include: soil chemistry analyses that establish relationships between energy exploration and development, and salinity of soils and waters in the Muddy Creek drainage of south central Wyoming; investigations in the relationship between soil organic matter and mercury at variable spatial scales; element mobility and availability in soils of the Greater Green River Basin; remote sensing applications for geologic, vegetation, and soil investigations; and development of a soil quality index (SQI) for the WLCI study area.