A synopsis of the southeastern aquatic resources partnership's comprehensive effort to assess the status of southeast aquatic habitats

With input from state and federal fish and wildlife agencies throughout the 14-state Southeastern Aquatic Resources Partnership (SARP) region, the Southeast Aquatic Habitat Plan (SAHP) identifies eight critical habitat components to address: riparian zones, water quality, watershed connectivity, hydrologic integrity, sediment flows, physical habitat, invasive species, and coastal habitat condition.   Each SAHP objective contains specific and measurable targets by which to evaluate conservation actions.  To establish a baseline for habitat condition, provide the fundamental data required for developing SARP restoration priorities, and meet goals of the National Fish Habitat Action Plan, SARP has initiated a GIS-based spatial assessment of each of the 8 habitat components using best available data and scientific approaches.  For demonstration we discuss our seminal effort to assess Objective 1- Riparian zone condition.  These assessments will generate detailed data layers at fine spatial resolution (e.g. catchment, stream reach) that can be integrated to provide a unique and informed perspective of aquatic habitat condition at a variety of spatial scales.  Data will be made available via ArcServer and other resources to widely support the research and conservation of Southeast fishes and their habitats.