USGS-Pierce Marsh: Freshwater Hydrology Study
Located on the north shore
of West Bay, in the Galveston Bay system, Pierce Marsh is bounded on the
northeast by Highland Bayou and on the southwest by the Highland Bayou Diversion
Canal. Basford Bayou is the only freshwater inflow source to the marsh.
Originally a salt marsh criss-crossed with freshwater channels, today Pierce
Marsh has significantly less freshwater input. Although its characteristics have
changed, it is nevertheless one of a series of coastal marshes that serve as a
rich and diverse wetland habitat for marine and estuarine biota. Value of these
marshes to the Galveston Bay system is inestimable. Redfish, spotted sea trout,
and other coastal fishery species rely on the protected waters of the bays and
marshes for breeding and foraging. Crabs, shrimp, and benthic invertebrates
inhabit both smooth cordgrass marshes and open-water areas. Pintails, widgeon,
gadwall, green-winged teal, and snow geese migrate to coastal Texas in the
winter. The purpose of this study is to provide data to evaluate whether
additional freshwater inflow to Pierce Marsh is beneficial to the ecology of
this environmentally-sensitive area. A secondary objective is to identify a
potential source for additional fresh water. During the first phase of this
study, water-quality monitoring equipment will be installed at four location for
at least one year. If warranted, the stations will be operated for an additional
year during phase 2. Data collected at these locations include water temperature
and specific conductance. In addition, water stage and water velocity will be
determined at one location. These data will be measured and stored at 15-minute
intervals, and downloaded periodically by USGS personnel.
Partners: Galveston Bay Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Texas Coastal Program