NCCOS is participating in a public-private program to reduce nutrient inputs to the Gulf of Mexico hypoxic (‘dead’) zone that managers expect to simultaneously benefit threatened native grassland bird species in steep decline
The Eastern Tallgrass Prairie and Big Rivers Landscape Conservation Cooperative (ETPBR LLC) is proposing a ‘Gulf Hypoxia Restoration Incentive Program’ to reduce nutrient inputs to the Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone while providing multiple benefits for people and wildlife. At a July 9-10, 2013, ETPBR Steering Committee meeting, NCCOS’ Dr. Alan Lewitus presented ongoing NOAA activities that guide Mississippi River/Gulf of Mexico Watershed Nutrient (Hypoxia) Task Force efforts to reduce the Gulf dead zone.
In 2009 the U.S. Department of Interior created Landscape Conservation Cooperatives (LCCs) of natural resource conservation partnerships across a defined geographical area. This is a joint effort to address heavily agricultural landscape-scale issues. The ETPBR LLC is one of a network of 22 LCCs and covers the large geographic area commonly referred to as ‘America’s Cornbelt,’ including the primary agricultural producing states contributing to the Gulf Hypoxic Zone.
For more information, contact Alan.Lewitus@noaa.gov.