Independent Scientific Advisory Committee (ISAC)

Agenda Highlights:

• Review progress on the PRRIP Extension Science Plan and assess how Extension science learning supports management decisions and potential Second Increment planning beyond 2032.

• Examine Extension Big Questions (EBQs), including remaining knowledge gaps, confidence in current understanding, and the usefulness of information for short- and long-term decision-making.

• Discuss integration of science, land management, and water management to inform Program actions and negotiations.

• Review status and effectiveness of Land Plan and Water Plan implementation, including available resources, management alternatives, and Extension goals.

• Evaluate target species monitoring and responses (Whooping Crane, Least Tern/Piping Plover, Pallid Sturgeon) and efforts to establish baselines for non-target species.

• Assess water needs for channel maintenance, habitat management, and species support, including geomorphology, vegetation control, migration stopover habitat, and wet meadow hydrology.

• Review predator management strategies and their effectiveness in improving Least Tern/Piping Plover productivity.

• Explore opportunities for science tool development and modeling, including potential application in a Structured Decision-Making (SDM) framework.

• Synthesize lessons learned from water and land management actions, using the whooping crane (WC) as a focal case study.

• Identify priorities and discussion topics for future ISAC engagement, including planning for the July 2026 meeting.

Held IN-PERSON in Kearney, NE

July 7^th is planned as a field day focused on ISAC learning more about PRRIP land management, water management, target species, and PRRIP science.

July 8^th is planned as an Open Session at a location TBD in Kearney, NE. All PRRIP participants are invited to attend.

July 9th is planned as a Closed Session at a location TBD in Kearney, NE. The Closed Session will be for the ISAC and PRRIP EDO staff only.