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The number and size of the springs and seeps within the Buffalo National River has never been quantified. Large springs that have perennial outputs, such as Mitch Hill Spring and Gilbert Spring, have been monitored for water-quality for more than 10 years, and much is known about the quantity, quality, and the aquatic organisms that reside in these springs. However, there could be thousands of springs and seeps within the watershed of the Buffalo River where little is known. These islands of aquatic and mesic habitats could be home to many rare or endemic species of macroinvertebrates and vascular plants. Efforts to find, measure, and monitor as many of these habitats as can found is planned for the Upper District of Buffalo National River in 2003. Results from this effort could help explain water-quality trends in river and tributary watersheds, document habitat for rare or endemic vascular plants and animals, and help explain the geologic setting as specific strata yield springs.
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