Funded by the MDNR Fisheries Division and by the Ecosystem Management Committee, this project is part of a larger effort to provide a prototype ecosystem classification for MDNR management activities. We were given the task of developing a system for stream classification that would be compatible with the LTA (Land Type Association) classification being developed for the state by ecologists at the Natural Features Inventory (principally D. Albert and P. Comer, building on the approach of SNRE's  Prof. Burt Barnes and regional classification of Albert and Barnes). In combination with MRI project funding, we used this support to develop the MRI Ecological Valley Segment Classification system (a.k.a. MRI-VSEC).
Public benefit: The VSEC stream classification system attempts to locate, delimit and describe ecologically distinct units of Michigan's rivers. The classification is providing a large-scale framework for stream fisheries management and planning activities in Michigan. Practical applications include a variety of assessment activities including fish stocking feasibility and conservation value assessments. Funded by MNDR.
Collaborators:  Paul Seelbach (MDNR/SNRE); Mike Wiley (SNRE), D. Albert and P. Comer (MDNR/MNFI),

Seelbach,P.W., M.J. Wiley, J.C. Kotanchik and M.E. Baker.1997. A Landscape-based ecological classification system for river valley segments in Lower Michigan. Fisheries Research Report No. 2036. Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Ann Arbor, MI.51.pp.

This collaboration began last fall (1996) and has developed into a very intensive interaction during this past year. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is exploring the MRI-VSEC approach as a prototype for nation-wide stream classification. Their goal is to use classification to identify river segments for conservation planning and acquisition. We have developed a basic memorandum of understanding committing the MRI project and TNC to a joint effort to complete the preliminary classification of Michigan by next year, to help them development the system for conservation decision-making, to share data, and to seek joint funding at the national level. Last summer they  supported a number of our students to do field sampling and to work on aspects of the classification system.
Public benefit: This work can lead directly to the preservation of rare or important riverine environments. It is an opportunity for us to develop tools that will have national and eventually international conservation applications. Funded by TNC.
Collaborators: J. Higgins and M. Lammert (TNC), Paul Seelbach (MDNR/SNRE), Mike Wiley (SNRE)