Workshop on Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast U.S.

Given the broad interest and need to better understand and plan for ecological drought in the Southeast, the USGS Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center and NOAA’s National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), in support of the Southeast Drought Early Warning System (DEWS), convened a 2-day workshop addressing drought and low-flow in the Southeast. This workshop, "Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast: Informing drought response and ecological resilience to future low-flow events," was held on January 7–8, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

• Theme 1 focused on understanding drought/low-flow ecosystem impacts and water resource management in the context of the Southeast.
• Theme 2 focused on ecological drought monitoring and response in the near-term.
• Theme 3 focused on incorporating drought/low-flow in long-term resilience and adaptation planning.

This workshop provided an opportunity to share available science, resources, and best practices; jointly identify key management priorities and research questions; and expand the region’s ability to respond and prepare for future droughts. 

A workshop summary report is now available.

For more information, please contact Meredith Muth.