Management Recommendations
Species like the spring cavefish are considered indicators of a clean, healthy aquatic system. Following these suggested recommendations will avoid or minimize impacts to cave systems and the spring cavefish. First, it is suggested minimizing the sedimentation runoff into streams, sinkholes, caves, and springs. This can be done by monitoring the erosion and sedimentation. Secondly, establish and maintain forest buffers of at least 100 foot wide along streams, around sinkhole, and cave entrances. These are also called streamside management zones or SMZ’s. Thirdly, try to dispose of all chemicals, toxins, garbage, and wash water in areas designated for such wastes. Lastly, if temporary roadways must be built, try to ensure that they are of low gradient with adequate roadbeds and storm water runoff drains/outlets. All of these suggestions are being implemented in the state of Missouri to help protect their spring cavefish.
Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources have suggested the following sampling methods and actions to adequately monitor the spring cavefish species. The first recommendation is to conduct baseline surveys and status assessments for the species to determine the distribution of each species within the target state. It is also suggested to conduct baseline surveys for non-target cave-dwelling fauna to determine distribution and community associations and collect/preserve specimens and tissue samples of non-target cave-dwelling fauna for future genetic analyses. Secondly, they recommend conducting life history studies to obtain basic information. This includes habitat requirements, ecology, and population dynamics of the species and the area. Thirdly, it is recommended to identify potential threats to existing populations. Fourthly, it is recommended to develop management steps for each status evaluation and monitoring for this particular species. Kentucky also suggests collecting and preserving specimens with tissue samples of the species for genetic analyses to resolve any taxonomic statuses of questionable populations. This will allow one to examine the extent of gene flow among populations both within and between hydrologic drainages in the future. Both sets of recommendations are being used and experimented with in Kentucky and Missouri that currently have good spring programs.
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