Respondents Needed for Great Plains Wetlands and Agricultural Perceptions Survey

Contact: Rachel Owen, Doctoral Research Assistant
School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri
rachelkowen@mail.missouri.edu, (515) 402-2767

Playas are shallow, rain-fed wetlands that provide crucial ecosystem services, such as wildlife habitat, flood control, and aquifer recharge, throughout the Great Plains. In addition to threats such as sedimentation and invasive species, playas may also be vulnerable to changes in precipitation and temperature associated with climate change. Playas are predominantly surrounded by agricultural production and grassland ecosystems, thus, management decisions by local farmers and ranchers can impact how playas function.

In partnership with the School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri and the Missouri Transect EPSCoR Project, we are conducting a research survey aimed at gathering information on how communities in the Great Plains currently view climate change and perceive the challenges and solutions for solving problems caused by climate change, specifically as they relate to playa wetlands and agricultural ecosystems in the region. Through this survey, we aim to develop educational resources to assist in playa conservation and support engagement with landowners and managers through meaningful, productive discussions about issues impacting playa wetlands and their functions in Great Plains communities.

We are asking stakeholders to share their ideas and opinions about climate change, agriculture, and playa wetlands through this survey. The survey takes about 5-10 minutes to complete. Participation is voluntary, there is no risk to participate, and responses will be kept confidential. The survey can be accessed at bit.ly\playawetlands. Electronic survey responses will close on May 30, 2018. If you’re interested in learning more about the overall project, please visit www.rachelkowen.com/playa-wetlands or follow Rachel on Twitter (@RachelKSoils).

Questions? Feel free to email Rachel Owen at rachelkowen@mail.missouri.edu. Rachel is a doctoral candidate at the University of Missouri studying the impact of changing climate conditions on playa wetland ecosystems. Rachel received the 2017-2018 Science-to-Action Fellowship from the U.S. Geological Survey National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center which supports travel to field days and workshops throughout the Great Plains.