The Davidson River is an extremely popular area for outdoor recreation in Western North Carolina, providing opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and snorkeling. This project will assess any changes in the macroinvertebrate communities of the Davidson River that may be related to Hurricane Helene or that may result from renovations of the Setzer Fish Hatchery. Discovery of storm-related changes or other relevant alterations, vulnerabilities, and impacts will inform USFS management strategies and tactics, such as any needed improvements to fish populations or habitats, and/or adjustments to management of public access and recreation activities.
Faculty: Dr. John Morse
Staff: Niko Artley
Graduate Student: Cheyana Bassham
