The Florida Everglades ecosystem is recognized worldwide as a significant wetland whose natural processes have been altered and remain threatened. State and Federal United States agencies face critical decisions about the course of conservation and restoration efforts. Synthesizing nearly ten years of laboratory and field research of the Duke University Wetland Center, An Integrated Approach to Wetland Ecosystem Science provides the long-term integrated scientific studies needed to understand the functioning of this region. The fundamental issues that the research addressed are: 1) The effects of increased nutrients and water inputs on the native plant and animal communities of the Everglades 2) The long-term nutrient storage capacity of the Everglades 3) The effects of changes in water level and hydroperiod on Everglades period and function 4) Management and restoration of the natural communities of the Everglades. Background information about current and historical ecological conditions of the region set the context for reports of long-term research projects.
A series of gradient studies determining the effects of hydrology and nutrient changes are presented, followed by field experiments that have tested those findings. Subsequent sections present models for predicting responses to various conditions and analyze the studies and models, focusing on management and restoration of the Everglades. This book will interest professionals and graduate students interested in ecosystems and wetland ecology.