- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Proximity to NASA operations, roads, and urban development requires careful management of wildlife interactions.
- Invasive Species: Plants and animals introduced by humans threaten native ecosystems, necessitating active removal and habitat restoration.
- Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise: Coastal habitats, salt marshes, and beaches face vulnerability to rising seas and increased storm frequency.
- Fire Management: Controlled burns maintain fire-adapted ecosystems, requiring careful planning to prevent property damage and ecological disruption.
- Water Quality: Monitoring of pollutants and runoff from surrounding areas ensures the health of aquatic ecosystems and wildlife populations.
Adaptive management strategies, scientific research, and public engagement are key to addressing these challenges.
Partnerships and Research Initiatives
Collaboration enhances the refuge’s capacity for conservation and education:
- NASA Collaboration: The refuge shutdown123