Purpose:
The intent of this work is to conduct water quality research and physical habitat monitoring in the Neuse
and Tar River Basins. Our goal is to improve the survival, growth, reproduction, and long-term health of
imperiled mussels and other organisms reared at the Yates Mill Aquatic Conservation Center (YMACC)
and deployed at reintroduction sites.
To accomplish these objectives, we will implement a comprehensive monitoring strategy. This
strategy will measure:
Standard physicochemical parameters
Ecological and biological indicators
Stream morphological characteristics
The research information gained from this study will help us identify the most significant factors
contributing to population stability and current species distributions across these river basins.
By assessing the relative importance of these factors, we aim to:
- Determine station augmentation potential.
- Predict future population trends under various environmental scenarios.
- Guide targeted conservation efforts.
This research will provide valuable insights to support the long-term conservation of these
priority species in North Carolina’s aquatic ecosystems.
Yates Mill Aquatic Conservation Center at NC State University 