Aquatic Ecology & Assessment
BSAP has extensive expertise in aquatic ecology, with specialists who study the organisms, habitats, and processes that define freshwater systems. Our work spans streams, rivers, and wetlands, providing the data and research needed to understand, protect, and restore aquatic resources.
BSAP biologists are leaders in fish, mussel, crayfish, and aquatic invertebrate identification and ecology (see Botanical Surveys for aquatic plant expertise). Our work supports conservation planning, regulatory compliance, and habitat restoration across Illinois and the Midwest. By combining field expertise with advanced analytical tools, our team delivers accurate, defensible information to guide management and design decisions.
Capabilities
Amphibian and Reptile Research & Assessment
BSAP maintains statewide expertise in amphibian and reptile survey methods, ecology, and conservation.
- Visual encounter, call, and trapping surveys
- Breeding site and habitat condition assessments
- Long-term monitoring and research on population trends
Our Experts: Andrew Kuhns and Enrique Santoyo-Brito
Crayfish Research & Assessment
BSAP maintains statewide leadership in crayfish taxonomy, distribution, and conservation.
Our capabilities:
- Sampling using trapping, seining, and hand collection
- Identification of native and invasive crayfish species
- Habitat and community ecology studies.
Our Taxonomic Expert: Dusty Swedberg
Fish Research & Assessment
BSAP conducts fish surveys and research on community structure, habitat use, and management results.
Our capabilities:
- Surveys using backpack, barge, and boat electrofishing, seining, and trapping
- Identification of all Illinois fish species
- Analysis of population structure and abundance
- GIS-based habitat and community modeling
- Monitoring fish response to restoration and mitigation
Our Experts: Alison Stodola and Dusty Swedberg
Invertebrate Research & Assessment
BSAP maintains statewide leadership in aquatic invertebrate taxonomy, ecology, and bioassessment.
Our capabilities:
- Sampling with D-frame nets and kick-nets
- Calculation of biotic indices
- Assessment of water quality and habitat condition
- Monitoring biological responses to management actions
Our Experts: Jason Bried and Jason Robinson
Mussel Research & Assessment
BSAP maintains statewide leadership in freshwater mussel taxonomy, ecology, and conservation.
- Mussel surveys using timed searches, quadrats, and transects
- Identification of all Midwestern species
- Relocations to minimize impacts at project sites
- Research on species distributions and habitat associations
Our Experts: Alison Stodola and Rachel Vinsel