Interior Least Tern Monitoring on the McClellan Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System in the Little Rock Corps District

The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is seeking applications for a cooperative agreement focused on monitoring the Interior Least Tern along the McClellan Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System within the Little Rock Corps District. The project aims to assess and enhance the breeding success of the endangered Interior Least Tern (Sternula antillarum) through comprehensive monitoring of nesting sites and habitat assessments, particularly in response to the impacts of navigation and hydroelectric operations on their populations. This initiative is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological health in local watersheds, as the Interior Least Tern serves as an important environmental indicator. The total estimated funding for this program is $240,000, with individual awards ranging from $0 to $48,000, and applications are due by August 13, 2025. Interested applicants can reach out to Stacy Thurman at stacy.d.thurman@usace.army.mil for further information.