11 Mar 2024

The Madness behind the Method: Showing the Human Side of Developing a World-Class Institution

Abstract: The 2022–2023 Leadership Development Program 2 (LDP2) team from the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) created this document to explore the human side of ITL’s history through the viewpoints of former influential figures at the lab. These individuals played a crucial role in elevating the lab to its current prominent position. The dynamic nature of the document allows continuous addition of such stories, providing future generations with insight into the unwavering commitment of the pioneers who established ITL’s esteemed legacy. Each nar-rative sheds light on different aspects of the lab, including its people, diversity, and excellence. The document serves as both a tribute to the lab’s achievements and a wellspring of inspiration for aspiring leaders, showcasing the profound impact of dedication and teamwork. By cele-brating these stories, we are able to learn from those who came before us and cultivate an enhanced vision for the future.

5 Mar 2024

Environmental DNA Sampling for At-Risk and Invasive Species Management on Military Ranges: Guidelines and Protocols for Installation Biologists and Land Managers

Abstract: Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, or the detection of trace DNA shed by organisms into their environment, has the potential to transform Army capabilities for threatened and endangered species (TES) and invasive species management by providing a rapid, noninvasive, and cost-effective option for monitoring wildlife. Despite these benefits, eDNA analysis is underutilized on military installations as limited access to guidance materials, protocols, training opportunities, and support from eDNA scientists makes it difficult for installation biologists and military land managers to design and execute eDNA surveys, let alone identify management questions that may benefit from eDNA monitoring. Therefore, the aim of this resource is to increase awareness of the benefits and limitations of eDNA monitoring and provide eDNA study design guidelines and field sampling protocols for nonexperts to make this tool more accessible to installation biologists and land managers and help facilitate the adoption of eDNA-based approaches for wildlife management on military ranges.

1 Mar 2024

Application of Limited-Field-Data Methods in Reservoir Volume Estimation: A Case Study

Abstract: The conventional approach to estimating lake or reservoir water volumes hinges on field data collection; however, volume estimation methods are available that use little or no field data. Two such methods—the simplified V-A-h (volume-area-height) and the power function—were applied to a set of six anthropogenic reservoirs on the Fort Jackson, South Carolina, installation and checked against a validation data set. Additionally, seven interpolation methods were compared for differences in total volume estimation based on sonar data collected at each reservoir. The simplified V-A-h method overestimated reservoir volume more than each technique in the power function method, and the categorical technique underestimated the most reservoir volumes of all three techniques. Each method demonstrates high Vₑᵣᵣ variability among reservoirs, and Vₑᵣᵣ for the Power Function techniques applied here is consistent with that found in previous research in that it is near or less than 30%. Compared with Vₑᵣᵣ in other studies evaluating the simplified V-A-h method, Vₑᵣᵣ in this study was found to be 10%–20% higher.