Using remote sensing to predict invasion paths of invasive wetland plants and their impact on wetland fish communities

In the Great Lakes, low lake levels and altered water-level patterns associated with climate change have modified the extent and composition of coastal wetlands by allowing invasive species such as common reed (Phragmites australis) to proliferate.  Phragmites (and other species) may establish in large areas exposed by lower lake levels, further altering diversity and reducing quality of fish habitat.  This has the potential to affect fish production considerably because many Great Lakes fishes are dependent on wetlands for at least part of their life history.  We propose a method for predicting the spread of invasive species such as Phragmites along the Great Lakes shoreline using LIDAR data and other remote-sensing data.  We hope to project expansion corridors used by Phragmites and predict areas at highest risk of invasion.  Examining invasion paths and proximity of these corridors to areas currently supporting high-quality habitat will allow managers to identify threats to biodiversity and wetland fish production, and ultimately enable managers to target and prioritize habitat management efforts.