EFFECTS OF CLIMATE VARIABILITY AND CHANGE ON STREAM ECOSYSTEMS UNDER ALTERNATIVE FUTURE GROWTH SCENARIOS IN THE WASHINGTON METROPOLITAN AREA
The goal of this study is to advance the understanding of how the effects of climate variability and change on stream ecosystems depend on land-use choices in surrounding areas. Global changes affect aquatic ecosystems through changes in water quality, hydrology, temperature, sea level rise & storm changes, and riparian habitat. This study will examine how choices regarding the timing, rate and spatial configuration of land conversion influence stream habitat and ecosystem health, and how these choices affect the resiliency of stream ecosystems to changes in climate and climate variability. It will also evaluate the effectiveness of local policies aimed at altering development patterns and mitigating the impact of development on streams. Results will help local policy makers understand the ecological consequences of alternative land configurations given potential changes in climate and climate variability.