Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve (TAPR) is the first National Park Service area established specifically for the preservation, protection, and interpretation of a tallgrass prairie ecosystem. The Heartland Inventory and Monitoring Network began monitoring water quality and invertebrate community structure of two streams (Palmer Creek and Fox Creek) within TAPR's boundary during September 2009. A Surber stream bottom sampler was used to collect 9 benthic samples from each stream. Habitat data were collected from the sampling net frame, and water quality data were recorded hourly using a data logger. This report summarizes baseline aquatic invertebrate monitoring data.

During surveys in 2006, the authors documented 13 invasive, exotic plant species and the native Eastern red cedar on Pea Ridge National Military Park. The survey focused on the relatively mature forests at the park to the exclusion of old fields and successional forests.

Prevention and early detection are the principal strategies for successful invasive exotic plant management. During surveys in 2006, the authors documented 16 invasive, exotic plant species on Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. their findings and recommendations are detailed.