Project Number: 6657-13000-008-05
Project Type: Grant

Start Date: Sep 11, 2008
End Date: Nov 30, 2010

Objective:
Develop a ranking framework to evaluate Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) implemented projects for ecosystem effectiveness for functions such as water quality, biogeochemical processes, and ecological habitat.

Approach:
Initially, rankings of sites along a gradient of alteration will be based on best professional judgment (BPJ). Data from collaborative studies (the independent data) will be used to re-rank the sites. This will confirm or refute whether the initial rankings were correct. If the metrics can be successfully re-calibrated so that they agree with the rankings provided by other ranking studies, we will be confident that the revised framework will work for other sites. A tiered system somewhat like the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) "Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for Use in Streams and Wadeable Rivers" will be used. Specifically, the study will use a four-tiered approach for partitioning alterations (or management practices) relative to the relatively unaltered, natural state. Each score within a condition state can be defined by the presence or strength of related indicators. Each condition category, except the least-altered tier, provides for high, medium, or low scores within it.