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Gregory Steyer, Ph.D.

Greg Steyer is the USGS Science Advisor for the Gulf of Mexico.

EDUCATION

Ph.D., Oceanography and Coastal Studies, Louisiana State University, 2008

M.S., Biology, University of Southwestern Louisiana, 1988

B.S., Biology, University of Maryland College Park, 1985

RESEARCH

Greg's primary interest is developing ecological indicators, adaptive management approaches, and ecological and landscape models for use in natural resource decision support. For over 30 years, he has worked for State and Federal governments developing monitoring, modeling and research programs for the evaluation of wetland restoration projects and programs. 

Greg has developed a comprehensive wetland monitoring network for the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act (CWPPRA) called the Coastwide Reference Monitoring System (http://www.lacoast.gov/crms2/Home.aspx), that allows evaluation of the effects of restoration and protection efforts at project, hydrologic basin and coastwide scales.  Greg has also developed desktop ecological models for the Louisiana Coastal Area and Louisiana State Master Plan that project over 50 years how wetland vegetation communities and coastal geomorphology will change with and without restoration and protection efforts.  Greg is actively involved in working with USGS, DOI and other Gulf of Mexico scientists in developing foundational monitoring and adaptive management programs for the RESTORE Council and Natural Resources Damage Assessment and Restoration Trustee Council. His current research investigates the cumulative effects of multiple restoration projects on coastal landscape change and resilience.    

Science and Products

link
Brown Pelican nesting colony on Louisiana barrier island

Enhancing Cross-Jurisdictional Adaptive Management in the Gulf of Mexico

Using an iterative qualitative coding process, WARC researchers are identifying objectives, stressors, and management priorities to support the implementation of adaptive management in restoration programs across the Gulf of Mexico.
By
Land Management Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico
link

Enhancing Cross-Jurisdictional Adaptive Management in the Gulf of Mexico

Using an iterative qualitative coding process, WARC researchers are identifying objectives, stressors, and management priorities to support the implementation of adaptive management in restoration programs across the Gulf of Mexico.
Learn More
link
Fundamental Monitoring Elements

Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council Monitoring and Assessment Program Development

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and USGS will jointly lead the development of foundational components for Gulf region-wide monitoring.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico
link

Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council Monitoring and Assessment Program Development

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and USGS will jointly lead the development of foundational components for Gulf region-wide monitoring.
Learn More
link
Adaptive Management graphic

Structured Decision-Making to Facilitate Multi-Stakeholder Coastal Conservation and Restoration under Climate Change Uncertainties: Case Study on Barrier Island of the Northern Gulf of Mexico

Barrier island resource managers within the northern Gulf of Mexico have the opportunity to more directly incorporate scientific uncertainties and technological challenges inherent with large-scale barrier island restoration projects, and as such, commit to developing robust long-term monitoring programs and applying adaptive management.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
link

Structured Decision-Making to Facilitate Multi-Stakeholder Coastal Conservation and Restoration under Climate Change Uncertainties: Case Study on Barrier Island of the Northern Gulf of Mexico

Barrier island resource managers within the northern Gulf of Mexico have the opportunity to more directly incorporate scientific uncertainties and technological challenges inherent with large-scale barrier island restoration projects, and as such, commit to developing robust long-term monitoring programs and applying adaptive management.
Learn More
link
Ship Island Karen Westphal ds903_abstract.html

Structured Decision-Making as a Tool for Coastal Restoration: A Case Study on Ship Island, Mississippi

Barrier islands protect mainland areas from storm surge, but can erode over time and require restoration. Ship Island, a barrier island off the coast of Mississippi, provides an example of this: the island was battered by Hurricane Camille in 1969 and split into two separate islands. As part of the Mississippi Coastal Improvements Program, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to use approximatel
By
Climate Adaptation Science Centers
link

Structured Decision-Making as a Tool for Coastal Restoration: A Case Study on Ship Island, Mississippi

Barrier islands protect mainland areas from storm surge, but can erode over time and require restoration. Ship Island, a barrier island off the coast of Mississippi, provides an example of this: the island was battered by Hurricane Camille in 1969 and split into two separate islands. As part of the Mississippi Coastal Improvements Program, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to use approximatel
Learn More

Synthesis of Gulf Coast Management Plans and Restoration Project Values, Stressors, and Strategies (2020-2021)

Dataset of segments (e.g. phrases, sentences, paragraphs) associated with ecological values, human community values, stressors, or restoration strategies found within Gulf Coast state management plans and restoration project descriptions, collected 2019-2020.
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

USGS Earthmap Capacity Assessment Dataset

The U.S. Geological Survey provides a wide range of scientific information to an even wider group of stakeholders. Understanding what capacities are needed and if and or where these capacities exist across the USGS landscape is critical in moving science to the next level of use, implementation, and visualization. The concept behind the groups organized to conduct and interpret the survey that col

Geomorphic and ecological effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on coastal Louisiana marsh communities

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita made landfall in 2005, subjecting the coastal marsh communities of Louisiana to various degrees of exposure. We collected data after the storms at 30 sites within fresh (12), brackish/intermediate (12), and saline (6) marshes to document the effects of saltwater storm surge and sedimentation on marsh community dynamics. The 30 sites were comprised of 15 pairs. Most pair
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Primary production across a coastal wetland landscape in Louisiana, U.S.A. (2012-2014)

Above- and belowground production in coastal wetlands are important contributors to carbon accumulation and ecosystem sustainability. As sea level rises, we can expect shifts to more salt-tolerant communities, which may alter these ecosystem functions and services. Although the direct influence of salinity on species-level primary production has been documented, we lack an understanding of the lan
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Predicting landscape effects of Mississippi River diversions on soil organic carbon sequestration

It contains supporting data from the wetland morphology modeling to support the analysis on the landscape effects of Mississippi River diversions in the context of sea-level rise on soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration along coastal Louisiana wetlands.
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Land area change in coastal Louisiana from 1932 to 2010

Coastal Louisiana wetlands make up the seventh largest delta on Earth, contain about 37 percent of the estuarine herbaceous marshes in the conterminous United States, and support the largest commercial fishery in the lower 48 States. These wetlands are in peril because Louisiana currently undergoes about 90 percent of the total coastal wetland loss in the continental United States. Documenting and
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Filter Total Items: 41

Identifying shared priorities for a bioregional approach to restoration in the Northern Gulf of Mexico

Natural resource management is often challenged with a mismatch between the scale of decision-making and the scale of the biological, ecological, and physical processes that control a system. Bioregional approaches to adaptive management have emerged as an approach to inform natural resource management at ecologically relevant scales and across multi-level governance structures. The implementation
Authors
Kelly G. Guilbeau, Ann C Hijuelos, Stephanie Romanach, Gregory Steyer
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Capacity assessment for Earth Monitoring, Analysis, and Prediction (EarthMAP) and future integrated monitoring and predictive science at the U.S. Geological Survey

Executive SummaryManagers of our Nation’s resources face unprecedented challenges driven by the convergence of increasing, competing societal demands and a changing climate that affects the stability, vulnerability, and predictability of those resources. To help meet these challenges, the scientific community must take advantage of all available technologies, data, and integrative Earth systems mo
Authors
Jennifer L. Keisman, Sky Bristol, David S. Brown, Allison K. Flickinger, Gregory Gunther, Peter S. Murdoch, MaryLynn Musgrove, John C. Nelson, Gregory D. Steyer, Kathryn A. Thomas, Ian R. Waite
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Energy Resources Program, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Oregon Water Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group monitoring and adaptive management strategy (LA TIG MAM Strategy)

The purpose of the Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group (LA TIG) Monitoring and Adaptive Management (MAM) Strategy is to outline an approach for the LA TIG to prioritize MAM activities in Louisiana for effective and efficient evaluation of the restoration of resources injured by the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill. Working from the Restoration Goals and Restoration Approaches outlined in the P
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Council monitoring and assessment program (CMAP): Common monitoring program attributes and methodologies for the Gulf of Mexico Region

Executive Summary Under the Resources and Ecosystem Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012 (RESTORE Act), the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (RESTORE Council or Council) is required to report on the progress of funded projects and programs. Systematic monitoring of restoration at the project-specific and programmatic-levels (i.e.
Authors
Julie Bosch, Heidi B Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Ed Johnson, Rheannon Hart, Sarah D Hile, Jacob S Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael Lee, Terrance McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B Meyers, Katie E Miller, Scott Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Kelly Marie Sanks, Gregory Steyer, Kevin Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Hana Rose Thurman
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Council monitoring and assessment program (CMAP): A framework for using the monitoring program inventory to conduct gap assessments for the Gulf of Mexico Region

Executive Summary Under the Resources and Ecosystem Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012 (RESTORE Act), the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (RESTORE Council or Council) is required to report on the progress of funded projects and programs. Systematic monitoring of restoration at the project-specific and programmatic-levels (wate
Authors
Julie Bosch, Heidi B Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Ed Johnson, Rheannon Hart, Sarah D Hile, Jacob S Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael Lee, Terrance McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B Meyers, Katie E Miller, Scott Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Kelly Marie Sanks, Gregory Steyer, Kevin Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Hana Rose Thurman
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Applying cumulative effects to strategically advance large‐scale ecosystem restoration

International efforts to restore degraded ecosystems will continue to expand over the coming decades, yet the factors contributing to the effectiveness of long‐term restoration across large areas remain largely unexplored. At large scales, outcomes are more complex and synergistic than the additive impacts of individual restoration projects. Here, we propose a cumulative‐effects conceptual framewo
Authors
Heida L. Diefenderfer, Gregory Steyer, Matthew C. Harwell, Andrew J LoSchiavo, Hilary A. Neckles, David M. Burdick, Gary E. Johnson, Kate E. Buenau, Elene Trujillo, John C. Callaway, Ronald M. Thom, Neil K. Ganju, Robert R. Twilley
By
Gulf of Mexico

Louisiana Adaptive Management Status and Improvement Report: Vision and Recommendations

As part of the process to increase implementation of adaptive management for ecosystem-based coastal restoration within Louisiana, we aim for this report to be broadly applicable across planning processes as well as funding and implementing entities. It compiles technical knowledge and guidance summarized as key findings through the text which lead to eight priority recommendations to improve appl
Authors
Bill Boshart, Morgan Crutcher, Angelina Freeman, Edward Haywood, Syed M. Khalil, Summer Langlois, Darin L. Lee, David Lindquist, Tommy E. McGinnis, James Pahl, Carol Parsons-Richards, Erin Plitsch, Rick Raynie, Robert Routon, Leigh Anne Sharp, John Troutman, Chuck Villarrubia, Todd Folse, Alyson Graugnard, Anne Hawes, Russ Joffrion, Wes Leblanc, Brian Lezina, Jim Pahl, Jody White, Craig Conzelmann, Ann Hijuelos, Sarai Piazza, Kathryn A. Spear, Gregory D. Steyer, Nanciann Regalado, John M. Tirpak, Courtney Schupp, Melissa Carle, Jaclyn Daly, Nicolas Eckhardt, Christy Fellas, Erin M. Fougeres, Stephen Heverly, Stacey Horstman, Jason Kroll, Mel Landry, Barbara A. Schroeder, Eric Weissberger, Sara Wissman, Treda Grayson, Patricia Taylor, Danny Wiegand, Mark Defley, Paulina Kolic, Harris Bienn, Tim J. B. Carruthers, Alyssa Dausman, Alaina Grace, Scott Hemmerling, Andrea Jerabek, Eric White, Ryan Clark, Coleen McHugh, Leland C Moss, Cyndhia Ramatchandirane, Amy Wold
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Council monitoring and assessment program (CMAP) compilation of existing habitat and water quality monitoring and mapping assessments for the Gulf of Mexico Region

This report is a deliverable to the RESTORE Council for Task 7: Document the existing baseline habitat and water quality conditions prior to implementation of the restoration projects; these baseline conditions will serve as a basis for measuring change/progress after restoration. It is the second in a series of CMAP reports. The first report describes the process and development of the CMAP monit
Authors
Julie Bosch, Heidi Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Ed Johnson, Rheannon M. Hart, Sarah Davidson Hile, Jacob Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael T. Lee, Terrence A. McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B. Meyers, Scott V. Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard A. Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Gregory D. Steyer, Kevin J. Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Katie Watson
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Council Monitoring and Assessment Program (CMAP): Inventory of existing water quality and habitat monitoring, and mapping metadata for Gulf of Mexico Programs

Under the Council-Selected Restoration Component of the RESTORE Act, the Council develops Funded Priority Lists (FPLs) that describe the projects and programs it will fund. Projects and programs funded through this component must be in furtherance of the goals and objectives of the Council’s Comprehensive Plan and address at least one of the restoration criteria identified in the RESTORE Act. The
Authors
Julie Bosch, Heidi Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Edward Johnson, Rheannon M. Hart, Sarah Hile, Jacob Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael T. Lee, Terrence A. McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B. Meyers, Scott Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard A. Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Gregory D. Steyer, Kevin J. Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Katie Watson
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

Floristic quality index and forested floristic quality index: Assessment tools for restoration projects and monitoring sites in coastal Louisiana

The Floristic Quality Index (FQI) has been used in many areas throughout the United State to assess the integrity of plant communities and restoration projects. Here, we summarize two tools that have been developed for monitoring sites in coastal Louisiana wetlands. The FQI was modified for herbaceous data collected in coastal Louisiana monitoring sites. A second FQI, the Forested Floristic Qualit
Authors
Kari Cretini, William B. Wood, Jenneke M. Visser, Ken W. Krauss, Leigh Anne Sharp, Gregory D. Steyer, Gary P. Shaffer, Sarai Piazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Predicting landscape effects of Mississippi River diversions on soil organic carbon sequestration

Large Mississippi River (MR) diversions (peak water flow >1416 m3/s and sediment loads >165 kg/s) have been proposed as part of a suite of coastal restoration projects and are expected to rehabilitate and rebuild wetlands to alleviate the significant historic wetland loss in coastal Louisiana. These coastal wetlands are undergoing increasing eustatic sea‐level rise, land subsidence, climate change
Authors
Hongqing Wang, Gregory D. Steyer, Brady Couvillion, Holly J. Beck, John M Rybczyk, Victor H. Rivera-Monroy, Ken W. Krauss, Jenneke M. Visser
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Assessing coastal wetland vulnerability to sea-level rise along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast: Gaps and opportunities for developing a coordinated regional sampling network

Coastal wetland responses to sea-level rise are greatly influenced by biogeomorphic processes that affect wetland surface elevation. Small changes in elevation relative to sea level can lead to comparatively large changes in ecosystem structure, function, and stability. The surface elevation table-marker horizon (SET-MH) approach is being used globally to quantify the relative contributions of pro
Authors
Michael J. Osland, Kereen T. Griffith, Jack C. Larriviere, Laura C. Feher, Donald R. Cahoon, Nicholas M. Enwright, David A. Oster, John M. Tirpak, Mark S. Woodrey, Renee C. Collini, Joseph J. Baustian, Joshua L. Breithaupt, Julia A Cherry, Jeremy R. Conrad, Nicole Cormier, Carlos A. Coronado-Molina, Joseph F. Donoghue, Sean A. Graham, Jennifer W. Harper, Mark W. Hester, Rebecca J. Howard, Ken W. Krauss, Daniel Kroes, Robert R. Lane, Karen L. McKee, Irving A. Mendelssohn, Beth A. Middleton, Jena A. Moon, Sarai Piazza, Nicole M. Rankin, Fred H. Sklar, Gregory D. Steyer, Kathleen M. Swanson, Christopher M. Swarzenski, William Vervaeke, Jonathan M Willis, K. Van Wilson
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Climate Research and Development Program, Land Change Science Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Non-USGS Publications**

Steyer, G.D., Couvillion, B., Wang, H., Sleavin, B., Rybczyk, J., Trahan, N., Beck, H., Fischenich, C., Boustany, R., and Allen, Y. 2012. Landscape change and relative elevation sub-models, Appendix D-2 Wetland Morphology Model Technical Report in Louisiana’s Comprehensive Master Plan for a Sustainable Coast, 104 p.
Casper, Andrew F., Rebecca A. Efroymson, Steven M. Davis, Greg Steyer, and Brian Zettle, 2010, Improving Conceptual Model Development: Avoiding Underperformance Due to Project Uncertainties. ERDC TN-EMRRP-EBA-5, 7 p. The product is available online at http://libweb.erdc.usace.army.mil/Archimages/3263.PDF
Lin, Jeff P., Scott Bourne, Brady Couvillion, Jane M. Smith, Gregg Snedden, Gregory D. Steyer, and Sally L. Yost, 2010, Evaluation of a Method for Measuring Lateral Obscuration of Coastal Marsh Vegetation in Louisiana. ERDC/EL TN-10-2, 15 p. The product is available online at http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/elpubs/pdf/eltn10-02.pdf
Conzelmann, C., G.D. Steyer, M. Comeaux, and K. Suir. 2009. CRMS Mapping Applications and the Google Maps Application Programming Interface (API): An Alternative to the Traditional Web Form. The product is available online at http://cs.tamucc.edu/dim/docs/papers/Craig%20Conzelmann.doc
Twilley, R.R., B.R. Couvillion, I. Hossain, C. Kaiser, A.B. Owens, G.D. Steyer, and J.M. Visser. 2008. Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Assessment and Restoration Program: The Role of Ecosystem Forecasting in Evaluating Restoration Planning in the Mississippi River Deltaic Plain. American Fisheries Society Symposium 64:29-46.
Steyer, G.D., A.B. Owens, and B.R. Couvillion. 2006. Data Collection Network to Support Ecosystem Forecasting for the Barataria Basin – Mississippi River Domain. Coastal Environment and Water Quality (ed. By Y.J. Xu & V.P. Singh), 431-442. Water Resources Publications, LLC, Highlands Ranch, CO 80163-0026, USA.
Steyer, G.D., R.R. Twilley and R.C. Raynie. 2006. An Integrated Monitoring Approach Using Multiple Reference Sites to Assess Sustainable Restoration in Coastal Louisiana. Pages 326 – 333 In Aguirre-Bravo, C., Pellicane, Patrick J., Burns, Denver P., and Draggan, Sidney (Eds.) Monitoring Science and Technology Symposium: Unifying Knowledge for Sustainability in the Western Hemisphere. 2004 September 20-24, Denver, CO. Proceedings RMRS-P-42CD, Fort Collins, CO, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 990 p.
Day, J., J. Barras, E. Clairain, J. Johnston, D. Justic, G. Kemp, J. Ko, R. Lane, W. Mitsch, G. Steyer, P. Templet, and A. Yanez-Arancibia. 2005. Implications of Global Climatic Change and Energy Cost and Availability for the Restoration of the Mississippi Delta. Ecological Engineering. 24:253-265.
Day, J., P. Templet, J. Ko, W. Mitsch, G.P. Kemp, J. Johnston, G. Steyer, J. Barras, D. Justic, E. Clairain, and R. Theriot. 2004. The Mississippi Delta: System Functioning, Environmental Impacts, and Sustainable Management. Pages 851-880. In: Caso, M., I. Pisanty, and E. Ezcurra (eds). Environmental Diagnosis of the Gulf of Mexico. Vol. 2. National Institute of Ecology, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.
Ko, J., J. Day, J. Barras, R. Morton , J. Johnston, G. Steyer, G.P. Kemp, E. Clairain, and R. Theriot. 2004. Impacts of Oil and Gas Activities on Coastal Wetland loss in the Mississippi Delta. Pages 957-977 In: Caso, M., I. Pisanty, and E. Ezcurra (eds). Environmental Diagnosis of the Gulf of Mexico. Vol. 2. National Institute of Ecology, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.
Steyer, G.D., C.E. Sasser, J.M. Visser, E.M. Swenson, J.A. Nyman, and R.C. Raynie. 2003. A Proposed Coast-wide Reference Monitoring System for Evaluating Wetland Restoration Trajectories in Louisiana. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 81:107-117.
Summers, J.K., and G.D. Steyer. 2000. A Framework for an Integrated and Comprehensive Monitoring Plan for the Estuaries of the Gulf of Mexico. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Gulf Ecology Division, Gulf Breeze, Florida. EPA 620-R-00-006.
Steyer, G.D. and D.W. Llewellyn. 2000. Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act: A Programmatic Application of Adaptive Management. Ecological Engineering. 15: 385-395.
Johnston, J.B., J. Barras, S. Hartley, D.A. Fuller, and G. Steyer. 1998. The integration of GIS and image processing technology for monitoring wetland restoration projects. Pages 607-616 in: McComb, A.J., and J.A. Davis, editors. Wetlands for the Future: INTECOL’S V International Wetlands Conference, Perth, Australia.
Steyer, G.D., D. Fuller, and J. Barras. 1995. The integration of GIS and image processing technology with continuous and real-time data collection for monitoring wetland restoration projects. National Interagency Workshop on Wetlands, New Orleans, LA.
Cahoon, D.R., D.J. Reed, J.W. Day, Jr., G.D. Steyer, R.M. Boumans, J.C. Lynch, D. McNally, and N. Latif. 1995. The influence of Hurricane Andrew on sediment distribution in Louisiana coastal marshes. Journal of Coastal Research. SI 21: 280-294.
Guntenspergen, G.R., D.R. Cahoon, J. Grace, G.D. Steyer, S. Fournet, M.A. Townson, and A.L. Foote. 1995. Disturbance and recovery of the Louisiana coastal marsh landscape from the impacts of Hurricane Andrew. Journal of Coastal Research. SI 21: 324-339.
Steyer, G.D., C.I. Simon, and S.G. Underwood. 1993. A resource management approach for evaluating the effectiveness of wetland restoration projects. Pages 742-745 in: Landin, M.C., editor. Wetlands: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference of the Society of Wetland Scientists, New Orleans, LA. South Central Chapter, Society of Wetland Scientists, Utica, MS.
Stone, G.W., J.M. Grymes, III, K.D. Robbins, S.G. Underwood, G.D. Steyer, and R.A. Muller. 1993. A chronologic overview of climatological and hydrological aspects associated with Hurricane Andrew and its morphological effects along the Louisiana coast, USA. Shore and Beach. 61(2): 2-12.
Trepagnier, C.M., B. Good, G.D. Steyer, and W. B. Sutton. 1993. Evaluation of three crevasse splay marsh creation projects at the Mississippi River delta. Pages 115-119 in: Landin, M.C., editor. Wetlands: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference of the Society of Wetland Scientists, New Orleans, LA. South Central Chapter, Society of Wetland Scientists, Utica, MS.

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

Science and Products

  • Science
    link
    Brown Pelican nesting colony on Louisiana barrier island

    Enhancing Cross-Jurisdictional Adaptive Management in the Gulf of Mexico

    Using an iterative qualitative coding process, WARC researchers are identifying objectives, stressors, and management priorities to support the implementation of adaptive management in restoration programs across the Gulf of Mexico.
    By
    Land Management Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico
    link

    Enhancing Cross-Jurisdictional Adaptive Management in the Gulf of Mexico

    Using an iterative qualitative coding process, WARC researchers are identifying objectives, stressors, and management priorities to support the implementation of adaptive management in restoration programs across the Gulf of Mexico.
    Learn More
    link
    Fundamental Monitoring Elements

    Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council Monitoring and Assessment Program Development

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and USGS will jointly lead the development of foundational components for Gulf region-wide monitoring.
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico
    link

    Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council Monitoring and Assessment Program Development

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and USGS will jointly lead the development of foundational components for Gulf region-wide monitoring.
    Learn More
    link
    Adaptive Management graphic

    Structured Decision-Making to Facilitate Multi-Stakeholder Coastal Conservation and Restoration under Climate Change Uncertainties: Case Study on Barrier Island of the Northern Gulf of Mexico

    Barrier island resource managers within the northern Gulf of Mexico have the opportunity to more directly incorporate scientific uncertainties and technological challenges inherent with large-scale barrier island restoration projects, and as such, commit to developing robust long-term monitoring programs and applying adaptive management.
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
    link

    Structured Decision-Making to Facilitate Multi-Stakeholder Coastal Conservation and Restoration under Climate Change Uncertainties: Case Study on Barrier Island of the Northern Gulf of Mexico

    Barrier island resource managers within the northern Gulf of Mexico have the opportunity to more directly incorporate scientific uncertainties and technological challenges inherent with large-scale barrier island restoration projects, and as such, commit to developing robust long-term monitoring programs and applying adaptive management.
    Learn More
    link
    Ship Island Karen Westphal ds903_abstract.html

    Structured Decision-Making as a Tool for Coastal Restoration: A Case Study on Ship Island, Mississippi

    Barrier islands protect mainland areas from storm surge, but can erode over time and require restoration. Ship Island, a barrier island off the coast of Mississippi, provides an example of this: the island was battered by Hurricane Camille in 1969 and split into two separate islands. As part of the Mississippi Coastal Improvements Program, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to use approximatel
    By
    Climate Adaptation Science Centers
    link

    Structured Decision-Making as a Tool for Coastal Restoration: A Case Study on Ship Island, Mississippi

    Barrier islands protect mainland areas from storm surge, but can erode over time and require restoration. Ship Island, a barrier island off the coast of Mississippi, provides an example of this: the island was battered by Hurricane Camille in 1969 and split into two separate islands. As part of the Mississippi Coastal Improvements Program, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to use approximatel
    Learn More
  • Data

    Synthesis of Gulf Coast Management Plans and Restoration Project Values, Stressors, and Strategies (2020-2021)

    Dataset of segments (e.g. phrases, sentences, paragraphs) associated with ecological values, human community values, stressors, or restoration strategies found within Gulf Coast state management plans and restoration project descriptions, collected 2019-2020.
    By
    Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    USGS Earthmap Capacity Assessment Dataset

    The U.S. Geological Survey provides a wide range of scientific information to an even wider group of stakeholders. Understanding what capacities are needed and if and or where these capacities exist across the USGS landscape is critical in moving science to the next level of use, implementation, and visualization. The concept behind the groups organized to conduct and interpret the survey that col

    Geomorphic and ecological effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on coastal Louisiana marsh communities

    Hurricanes Katrina and Rita made landfall in 2005, subjecting the coastal marsh communities of Louisiana to various degrees of exposure. We collected data after the storms at 30 sites within fresh (12), brackish/intermediate (12), and saline (6) marshes to document the effects of saltwater storm surge and sedimentation on marsh community dynamics. The 30 sites were comprised of 15 pairs. Most pair
    By
    Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    Primary production across a coastal wetland landscape in Louisiana, U.S.A. (2012-2014)

    Above- and belowground production in coastal wetlands are important contributors to carbon accumulation and ecosystem sustainability. As sea level rises, we can expect shifts to more salt-tolerant communities, which may alter these ecosystem functions and services. Although the direct influence of salinity on species-level primary production has been documented, we lack an understanding of the lan
    By
    Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    Predicting landscape effects of Mississippi River diversions on soil organic carbon sequestration

    It contains supporting data from the wetland morphology modeling to support the analysis on the landscape effects of Mississippi River diversions in the context of sea-level rise on soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration along coastal Louisiana wetlands.
    By
    Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
  • Maps

    Land area change in coastal Louisiana from 1932 to 2010

    Coastal Louisiana wetlands make up the seventh largest delta on Earth, contain about 37 percent of the estuarine herbaceous marshes in the conterminous United States, and support the largest commercial fishery in the lower 48 States. These wetlands are in peril because Louisiana currently undergoes about 90 percent of the total coastal wetland loss in the continental United States. Documenting and
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
  • Publications
    Filter Total Items: 41

    Identifying shared priorities for a bioregional approach to restoration in the Northern Gulf of Mexico

    Natural resource management is often challenged with a mismatch between the scale of decision-making and the scale of the biological, ecological, and physical processes that control a system. Bioregional approaches to adaptive management have emerged as an approach to inform natural resource management at ecologically relevant scales and across multi-level governance structures. The implementation
    Authors
    Kelly G. Guilbeau, Ann C Hijuelos, Stephanie Romanach, Gregory Steyer
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Capacity assessment for Earth Monitoring, Analysis, and Prediction (EarthMAP) and future integrated monitoring and predictive science at the U.S. Geological Survey

    Executive SummaryManagers of our Nation’s resources face unprecedented challenges driven by the convergence of increasing, competing societal demands and a changing climate that affects the stability, vulnerability, and predictability of those resources. To help meet these challenges, the scientific community must take advantage of all available technologies, data, and integrative Earth systems mo
    Authors
    Jennifer L. Keisman, Sky Bristol, David S. Brown, Allison K. Flickinger, Gregory Gunther, Peter S. Murdoch, MaryLynn Musgrove, John C. Nelson, Gregory D. Steyer, Kathryn A. Thomas, Ian R. Waite
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Energy Resources Program, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Oregon Water Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group monitoring and adaptive management strategy (LA TIG MAM Strategy)

    The purpose of the Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group (LA TIG) Monitoring and Adaptive Management (MAM) Strategy is to outline an approach for the LA TIG to prioritize MAM activities in Louisiana for effective and efficient evaluation of the restoration of resources injured by the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill. Working from the Restoration Goals and Restoration Approaches outlined in the P
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Council monitoring and assessment program (CMAP): Common monitoring program attributes and methodologies for the Gulf of Mexico Region

    Executive Summary Under the Resources and Ecosystem Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012 (RESTORE Act), the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (RESTORE Council or Council) is required to report on the progress of funded projects and programs. Systematic monitoring of restoration at the project-specific and programmatic-levels (i.e.
    Authors
    Julie Bosch, Heidi B Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Ed Johnson, Rheannon Hart, Sarah D Hile, Jacob S Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael Lee, Terrance McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B Meyers, Katie E Miller, Scott Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Kelly Marie Sanks, Gregory Steyer, Kevin Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Hana Rose Thurman
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Council monitoring and assessment program (CMAP): A framework for using the monitoring program inventory to conduct gap assessments for the Gulf of Mexico Region

    Executive Summary Under the Resources and Ecosystem Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012 (RESTORE Act), the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (RESTORE Council or Council) is required to report on the progress of funded projects and programs. Systematic monitoring of restoration at the project-specific and programmatic-levels (wate
    Authors
    Julie Bosch, Heidi B Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Ed Johnson, Rheannon Hart, Sarah D Hile, Jacob S Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael Lee, Terrance McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B Meyers, Katie E Miller, Scott Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Kelly Marie Sanks, Gregory Steyer, Kevin Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Hana Rose Thurman
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Applying cumulative effects to strategically advance large‐scale ecosystem restoration

    International efforts to restore degraded ecosystems will continue to expand over the coming decades, yet the factors contributing to the effectiveness of long‐term restoration across large areas remain largely unexplored. At large scales, outcomes are more complex and synergistic than the additive impacts of individual restoration projects. Here, we propose a cumulative‐effects conceptual framewo
    Authors
    Heida L. Diefenderfer, Gregory Steyer, Matthew C. Harwell, Andrew J LoSchiavo, Hilary A. Neckles, David M. Burdick, Gary E. Johnson, Kate E. Buenau, Elene Trujillo, John C. Callaway, Ronald M. Thom, Neil K. Ganju, Robert R. Twilley
    By
    Gulf of Mexico

    Louisiana Adaptive Management Status and Improvement Report: Vision and Recommendations

    As part of the process to increase implementation of adaptive management for ecosystem-based coastal restoration within Louisiana, we aim for this report to be broadly applicable across planning processes as well as funding and implementing entities. It compiles technical knowledge and guidance summarized as key findings through the text which lead to eight priority recommendations to improve appl
    Authors
    Bill Boshart, Morgan Crutcher, Angelina Freeman, Edward Haywood, Syed M. Khalil, Summer Langlois, Darin L. Lee, David Lindquist, Tommy E. McGinnis, James Pahl, Carol Parsons-Richards, Erin Plitsch, Rick Raynie, Robert Routon, Leigh Anne Sharp, John Troutman, Chuck Villarrubia, Todd Folse, Alyson Graugnard, Anne Hawes, Russ Joffrion, Wes Leblanc, Brian Lezina, Jim Pahl, Jody White, Craig Conzelmann, Ann Hijuelos, Sarai Piazza, Kathryn A. Spear, Gregory D. Steyer, Nanciann Regalado, John M. Tirpak, Courtney Schupp, Melissa Carle, Jaclyn Daly, Nicolas Eckhardt, Christy Fellas, Erin M. Fougeres, Stephen Heverly, Stacey Horstman, Jason Kroll, Mel Landry, Barbara A. Schroeder, Eric Weissberger, Sara Wissman, Treda Grayson, Patricia Taylor, Danny Wiegand, Mark Defley, Paulina Kolic, Harris Bienn, Tim J. B. Carruthers, Alyssa Dausman, Alaina Grace, Scott Hemmerling, Andrea Jerabek, Eric White, Ryan Clark, Coleen McHugh, Leland C Moss, Cyndhia Ramatchandirane, Amy Wold
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Council monitoring and assessment program (CMAP) compilation of existing habitat and water quality monitoring and mapping assessments for the Gulf of Mexico Region

    This report is a deliverable to the RESTORE Council for Task 7: Document the existing baseline habitat and water quality conditions prior to implementation of the restoration projects; these baseline conditions will serve as a basis for measuring change/progress after restoration. It is the second in a series of CMAP reports. The first report describes the process and development of the CMAP monit
    Authors
    Julie Bosch, Heidi Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Ed Johnson, Rheannon M. Hart, Sarah Davidson Hile, Jacob Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael T. Lee, Terrence A. McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B. Meyers, Scott V. Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard A. Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Gregory D. Steyer, Kevin J. Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Katie Watson
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Council Monitoring and Assessment Program (CMAP): Inventory of existing water quality and habitat monitoring, and mapping metadata for Gulf of Mexico Programs

    Under the Council-Selected Restoration Component of the RESTORE Act, the Council develops Funded Priority Lists (FPLs) that describe the projects and programs it will fund. Projects and programs funded through this component must be in furtherance of the goals and objectives of the Council’s Comprehensive Plan and address at least one of the restoration criteria identified in the RESTORE Act. The
    Authors
    Julie Bosch, Heidi Burkart, Bogdan Chivoiu, Randy Clark, Chris Clement, Nicholas Enwright, Steve Giordano, Chris Jeffrey, Edward Johnson, Rheannon M. Hart, Sarah Hile, Jacob Howell, Claudia Laurenzano, Michael T. Lee, Terrence A. McCloskey, Terry McTigue, Michelle B. Meyers, Scott Mize, Mark E. Monaco, Kevin Owen, Richard A. Rebich, Samuel H. Rendon, Ali Robertson, Thomas Sample, Gregory D. Steyer, Kevin J. Suir, Christopher M. Swarzenski, Katie Watson
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Gulf of Mexico

    Floristic quality index and forested floristic quality index: Assessment tools for restoration projects and monitoring sites in coastal Louisiana

    The Floristic Quality Index (FQI) has been used in many areas throughout the United State to assess the integrity of plant communities and restoration projects. Here, we summarize two tools that have been developed for monitoring sites in coastal Louisiana wetlands. The FQI was modified for herbaceous data collected in coastal Louisiana monitoring sites. A second FQI, the Forested Floristic Qualit
    Authors
    Kari Cretini, William B. Wood, Jenneke M. Visser, Ken W. Krauss, Leigh Anne Sharp, Gregory D. Steyer, Gary P. Shaffer, Sarai Piazza
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    Predicting landscape effects of Mississippi River diversions on soil organic carbon sequestration

    Large Mississippi River (MR) diversions (peak water flow >1416 m3/s and sediment loads >165 kg/s) have been proposed as part of a suite of coastal restoration projects and are expected to rehabilitate and rebuild wetlands to alleviate the significant historic wetland loss in coastal Louisiana. These coastal wetlands are undergoing increasing eustatic sea‐level rise, land subsidence, climate change
    Authors
    Hongqing Wang, Gregory D. Steyer, Brady Couvillion, Holly J. Beck, John M Rybczyk, Victor H. Rivera-Monroy, Ken W. Krauss, Jenneke M. Visser
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    Assessing coastal wetland vulnerability to sea-level rise along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast: Gaps and opportunities for developing a coordinated regional sampling network

    Coastal wetland responses to sea-level rise are greatly influenced by biogeomorphic processes that affect wetland surface elevation. Small changes in elevation relative to sea level can lead to comparatively large changes in ecosystem structure, function, and stability. The surface elevation table-marker horizon (SET-MH) approach is being used globally to quantify the relative contributions of pro
    Authors
    Michael J. Osland, Kereen T. Griffith, Jack C. Larriviere, Laura C. Feher, Donald R. Cahoon, Nicholas M. Enwright, David A. Oster, John M. Tirpak, Mark S. Woodrey, Renee C. Collini, Joseph J. Baustian, Joshua L. Breithaupt, Julia A Cherry, Jeremy R. Conrad, Nicole Cormier, Carlos A. Coronado-Molina, Joseph F. Donoghue, Sean A. Graham, Jennifer W. Harper, Mark W. Hester, Rebecca J. Howard, Ken W. Krauss, Daniel Kroes, Robert R. Lane, Karen L. McKee, Irving A. Mendelssohn, Beth A. Middleton, Jena A. Moon, Sarai Piazza, Nicole M. Rankin, Fred H. Sklar, Gregory D. Steyer, Kathleen M. Swanson, Christopher M. Swarzenski, William Vervaeke, Jonathan M Willis, K. Van Wilson
    By
    Ecosystems Mission Area, Climate Research and Development Program, Land Change Science Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

    Non-USGS Publications**

    Steyer, G.D., Couvillion, B., Wang, H., Sleavin, B., Rybczyk, J., Trahan, N., Beck, H., Fischenich, C., Boustany, R., and Allen, Y. 2012. Landscape change and relative elevation sub-models, Appendix D-2 Wetland Morphology Model Technical Report in Louisiana’s Comprehensive Master Plan for a Sustainable Coast, 104 p.
    Casper, Andrew F., Rebecca A. Efroymson, Steven M. Davis, Greg Steyer, and Brian Zettle, 2010, Improving Conceptual Model Development: Avoiding Underperformance Due to Project Uncertainties. ERDC TN-EMRRP-EBA-5, 7 p. The product is available online at http://libweb.erdc.usace.army.mil/Archimages/3263.PDF
    Lin, Jeff P., Scott Bourne, Brady Couvillion, Jane M. Smith, Gregg Snedden, Gregory D. Steyer, and Sally L. Yost, 2010, Evaluation of a Method for Measuring Lateral Obscuration of Coastal Marsh Vegetation in Louisiana. ERDC/EL TN-10-2, 15 p. The product is available online at http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/elpubs/pdf/eltn10-02.pdf
    Conzelmann, C., G.D. Steyer, M. Comeaux, and K. Suir. 2009. CRMS Mapping Applications and the Google Maps Application Programming Interface (API): An Alternative to the Traditional Web Form. The product is available online at http://cs.tamucc.edu/dim/docs/papers/Craig%20Conzelmann.doc
    Twilley, R.R., B.R. Couvillion, I. Hossain, C. Kaiser, A.B. Owens, G.D. Steyer, and J.M. Visser. 2008. Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Assessment and Restoration Program: The Role of Ecosystem Forecasting in Evaluating Restoration Planning in the Mississippi River Deltaic Plain. American Fisheries Society Symposium 64:29-46.
    Steyer, G.D., A.B. Owens, and B.R. Couvillion. 2006. Data Collection Network to Support Ecosystem Forecasting for the Barataria Basin – Mississippi River Domain. Coastal Environment and Water Quality (ed. By Y.J. Xu & V.P. Singh), 431-442. Water Resources Publications, LLC, Highlands Ranch, CO 80163-0026, USA.
    Steyer, G.D., R.R. Twilley and R.C. Raynie. 2006. An Integrated Monitoring Approach Using Multiple Reference Sites to Assess Sustainable Restoration in Coastal Louisiana. Pages 326 – 333 In Aguirre-Bravo, C., Pellicane, Patrick J., Burns, Denver P., and Draggan, Sidney (Eds.) Monitoring Science and Technology Symposium: Unifying Knowledge for Sustainability in the Western Hemisphere. 2004 September 20-24, Denver, CO. Proceedings RMRS-P-42CD, Fort Collins, CO, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 990 p.
    Day, J., J. Barras, E. Clairain, J. Johnston, D. Justic, G. Kemp, J. Ko, R. Lane, W. Mitsch, G. Steyer, P. Templet, and A. Yanez-Arancibia. 2005. Implications of Global Climatic Change and Energy Cost and Availability for the Restoration of the Mississippi Delta. Ecological Engineering. 24:253-265.
    Day, J., P. Templet, J. Ko, W. Mitsch, G.P. Kemp, J. Johnston, G. Steyer, J. Barras, D. Justic, E. Clairain, and R. Theriot. 2004. The Mississippi Delta: System Functioning, Environmental Impacts, and Sustainable Management. Pages 851-880. In: Caso, M., I. Pisanty, and E. Ezcurra (eds). Environmental Diagnosis of the Gulf of Mexico. Vol. 2. National Institute of Ecology, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.
    Ko, J., J. Day, J. Barras, R. Morton , J. Johnston, G. Steyer, G.P. Kemp, E. Clairain, and R. Theriot. 2004. Impacts of Oil and Gas Activities on Coastal Wetland loss in the Mississippi Delta. Pages 957-977 In: Caso, M., I. Pisanty, and E. Ezcurra (eds). Environmental Diagnosis of the Gulf of Mexico. Vol. 2. National Institute of Ecology, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.
    Steyer, G.D., C.E. Sasser, J.M. Visser, E.M. Swenson, J.A. Nyman, and R.C. Raynie. 2003. A Proposed Coast-wide Reference Monitoring System for Evaluating Wetland Restoration Trajectories in Louisiana. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 81:107-117.
    Summers, J.K., and G.D. Steyer. 2000. A Framework for an Integrated and Comprehensive Monitoring Plan for the Estuaries of the Gulf of Mexico. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Gulf Ecology Division, Gulf Breeze, Florida. EPA 620-R-00-006.
    Steyer, G.D. and D.W. Llewellyn. 2000. Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act: A Programmatic Application of Adaptive Management. Ecological Engineering. 15: 385-395.
    Johnston, J.B., J. Barras, S. Hartley, D.A. Fuller, and G. Steyer. 1998. The integration of GIS and image processing technology for monitoring wetland restoration projects. Pages 607-616 in: McComb, A.J., and J.A. Davis, editors. Wetlands for the Future: INTECOL’S V International Wetlands Conference, Perth, Australia.
    Steyer, G.D., D. Fuller, and J. Barras. 1995. The integration of GIS and image processing technology with continuous and real-time data collection for monitoring wetland restoration projects. National Interagency Workshop on Wetlands, New Orleans, LA.
    Cahoon, D.R., D.J. Reed, J.W. Day, Jr., G.D. Steyer, R.M. Boumans, J.C. Lynch, D. McNally, and N. Latif. 1995. The influence of Hurricane Andrew on sediment distribution in Louisiana coastal marshes. Journal of Coastal Research. SI 21: 280-294.
    Guntenspergen, G.R., D.R. Cahoon, J. Grace, G.D. Steyer, S. Fournet, M.A. Townson, and A.L. Foote. 1995. Disturbance and recovery of the Louisiana coastal marsh landscape from the impacts of Hurricane Andrew. Journal of Coastal Research. SI 21: 324-339.
    Steyer, G.D., C.I. Simon, and S.G. Underwood. 1993. A resource management approach for evaluating the effectiveness of wetland restoration projects. Pages 742-745 in: Landin, M.C., editor. Wetlands: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference of the Society of Wetland Scientists, New Orleans, LA. South Central Chapter, Society of Wetland Scientists, Utica, MS.
    Stone, G.W., J.M. Grymes, III, K.D. Robbins, S.G. Underwood, G.D. Steyer, and R.A. Muller. 1993. A chronologic overview of climatological and hydrological aspects associated with Hurricane Andrew and its morphological effects along the Louisiana coast, USA. Shore and Beach. 61(2): 2-12.
    Trepagnier, C.M., B. Good, G.D. Steyer, and W. B. Sutton. 1993. Evaluation of three crevasse splay marsh creation projects at the Mississippi River delta. Pages 115-119 in: Landin, M.C., editor. Wetlands: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference of the Society of Wetland Scientists, New Orleans, LA. South Central Chapter, Society of Wetland Scientists, Utica, MS.

    **Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.