March 5, 2025
The Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center (MW CASC) is pleased to announce four newly-funded research projects.
These projects were the result of a solicitation process that began with 31 statements of interest submitted by researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and MW CASC consortium member institutions across the region. Each project addresses a critical climate adaptation challenge in the Midwest and will provide insights that resource managers can use to respond to climate-related threats such as habitat loss and extreme weather events. As with all MW CASC research, these projects also have an emphasis on co-production, with key partners identified in each proposal.
Learn more about each new project:
Relieving the Sting: Spatial Prioritization for Pollinator Conservation Under a Changing Climate
The Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, along with other pollinators, are declining due to climate change, habitat loss, and other stressors. Led by Kristen Ellis of the USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, this project will study how certain stressors interact to affect the geographic distribution of Rusty Patched Bumble Bees. Researchers will use mapping techniques and future climate projections to identify vulnerable populations and future strongholds. The project will result in a model and web application, equipping resource managers with the tools to improve pollinator recovery efforts and strategically guide conservation actions.
Partner organizations on the project include the USGS Great Lakes Science Center, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, University of California, Xerces Society, and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Identifying Past and Future Climate Change Refugia for Midwestern Birds
In the Midwest, climate change is forcing birds to shift their ranges, raising concerns about how well protected areas provide refuge for vulnerable bird species. Led by Benjamin Zuckerberg of the University of Wisconsin, this project will use two decades of bird monitoring data to evaluate how protected areas in the Upper Great Lakes region support birds now and in the future under changing climate and land-use conditions. Researchers will develop maps identifying vulnerable species and key conservation areas, providing agencies and land managers with actionable data to guide habitat protection efforts.
Partner organizations on the project include the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Audubon Society, U.S. Forest Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, University of Minnesota, The Nature Conservancy, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Cornell University.
Climate-Driven Changes to Forested Wetland Inundation Dynamics: Implications for Frogs and Toads
Forested wetlands in the Upper Midwest provide critical habitat for amphibians, but climate-driven changes in drying patterns threaten species reproduction and survival. Led by Ryan Burner of the USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, this project will use water depth sensor data, machine learning models, and long-term amphibian surveys to predict wet and dry periods for wetlands under future climate scenarios. The findings will equip partners with actionable data to prioritize wetland protection and species conservation efforts.
Partner organizations on the project include the USGS South Atlantic Water Science Center, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Midwest Partners in Amphibian & Reptile Conservation, Voyageurs National Park, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Does Less Ice Cover Lead to More Turbulent Overwinter Conditions on Great Lakes Fish Spawning Reefs?
Declining winter ice cover in the Great Lakes may expose coldwater fish spawning reefs to stronger winds and waves, potentially disrupting reproduction. Led by Corbin Hilling of the USGS Great Lakes Science Center, this project will measure water movement and ice cover in Lake Erie to model future conditions. The findings will help fishery managers in the region make habitat restoration and fish stocking decisions for important species like lake whitefish and cisco.
Partner organizations on the project include Purdue University, USGS, and the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
The MW CASC continues to advance science that supports adaptation strategies across the Midwest by addressing pressing challenges and fostering collaboration. Learn more about these projects – and hear directly from the lead researchers – on this recent MW CASC Science Seminar.
Research project funding is provided by the USGS. Want to be notified when the next CASC project solicitation process begins? Let us know.