Science activity

Science activity #53136, updated 24 May 2024

Non-Invasive Environmental DNA Monitoring to Support Tidal Wetland Restoration

Description / purpose

In this project we use single-species and multi-species environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches to monitor tidal wetland restoration sites and paired reference sites (existing, unrestored tidal wetlands located near restoration sites) in the San Francisco Bay Delta (SFBD). We are working in coordination with the CDFW Fish Restoration Program (FRP) and other collaborators so our eDNA detections can be paired with physical detections of fishes from their trawling efforts. Ultra-sensitive DNA single species detection methods are being used to identify restoration site use by listed species (Delta Smelt, Longfin Smelt, winter- and spring-run Chinook Salmon) while the DNA metabarcoding approach will evaluate entire fish communities (groups of different fish species) at restored and reference sites. Aside from revealing restored habitat use by other fishes, metabarcoding will reveal potential ecological interactions between Endangered Species Act listed and non-listed species, through concurrent detection in time and space. Sampling throughout the year will allow us to identify seasonal trends in fish use of restored and reference sites. This project will demonstrate the utility of eDNA detection as a non-invasive (no take), cost-effective monitoring tool that can complement conventional surveys of restored tidal wetlands in the SFBD. Our results can be incorporated into an adaptive monitoring framework for tidal wetland restoration, to increase success of future restoration projects.

Activity status

  • 1 Awarded / Initiating (2022)
  • 2 In progress / Ongoing
  • 3 Complete

Funding summary

Total allocated funding: $496,322

Label Value
Contract # or labor code DSC-21011
Implementing organization University of California - Davis [UC Davis]
Funding organization Delta Stewardship Council - Delta Science Program
Funding Source Not provided
Date of award 2022-07-01
Date of fiscal year-end Not provided
Total award amount $496,322
State type of obligation Not provided
Federal type of obligation Not provided
Reimbursability Not provided
Procurement mechanism Not provided

Location

Subbasins
Delta regions

Geographic tags

None specified

Products and outputs

Type Title Description Views
File An Environmental DNA Approach to Monitor Fish Communities in Restored Tidal Wetlands Poster Presentation: 152nd Annual Meeting of the 30
News Project at-a-glance Short summary of the project in aesthetically plea 4