Ecological modeling output for the Combined Operational Plan, Round 1 in the Greater Everglades, 2018-2019

Ecological models facilitate evaluation and assessment of alternative plans for restoring the Greater Everglades ecosystem. Modeling outputs were used in evaluations of alternative water control plans to be performed by the Combined Operational Plan (COP). The models used were: (1) Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow Marl Prairie Indicator in conjunction with (2) Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow Helper, (3) Florida apple snail (native) population model (EverSnail), (4) Wader Distribution Evaluation Modeling (WADEM), (5) Small-sized freshwater fish density, and (6) alligator production probability (i.e., breeding potential). These ecological models are used to examine potential impacts on the above listed flora and fauna from implementation of the COP. COP restoration plans are developed as an iterative process. These outputs are from Round 1 (of 3).