RAPID: A massive floodplain reconnects: physical and biotic responses of the Birds Point levee breach in the Mississippi River

Southern Illinois University At Carbondale, Carbondale IL

Investigators

Abstract

This RAPID proposal will follow the ecosystem changes that occur as a long-disconnected floodplain of the Mississippi River at the Birds Point Levee becomes inundated with floodwaters from the historic high flows of spring 2011. The researchers will investigate ecosystem metabolism (primary production and respiration) and secondary productivity of the floodplain system during the inundation period (expected to last until end of summer 2011). The researchers will compare their findings with data on ecosystem metabolism of the river from past studies. An event of the magnitude that is now occurring on the Mississippi River has not been seen since the 1930's (when its ecosystem effects were not studied). Extreme events like these call to question past decisions to constrain the river and prevent floodplain inundation. Research will provide a basis for evaluating alternative management strategies to accommodate extreme flooding events which may occur more frequently under future climates.