How can we integrate probablistic and targeted monitoring in the development of biological criteria?
Approach (biocriteria): NHEERL is supporting the development of biocriteria by establishing reference conditions for streams and small rivers. Biocriteria research involves the establishment of a threshold for comparing ambient conditions. From these thresholds, biocriteria are then determined which serve as a measure of impairment to biota. This research will build on the experience gained from states and focus on developing an approach to establish rigorous and scientifically defensible biocriteria. Biocriteria will be developed for various aquatic resources, including coastal systems, estuaries and wetlands. Incorporating biocriteria into EMAP-type monitoring designs will be used by regions, States and Tribes to track the regional effectiveness of ecological management policies. (This aspect will be implemented through EMAP’s Regional Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (R-EMAP). Methods for determining reference conditions will be field tested on a local level through t
