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AUG 81979 Box 41 PA G E327 B. A determination of 16 representative spoil islands to be thoroughly studied and chosen from the 43 spoil islands based on location, physical and biological similarities to 27 spoil islands not studied, and on preliminary observations made by other agencies, scientists and the COUNTY. C. Historical aerial photographs will be examined to determine changes in spoil island topography and vegetation. Native and non-native plant community succession will be determined. Current aerial photographs will be used to produce vegetation maps to be verified during island visits. These maps will include submerged features such as seagrass beds and oyster reefs. D. Aerial photo maps will be verified with the determination of native and non-native terrestrial, semiaquatic and aquatic floral species percent coverage. Special attention will be given to the potential development of native plant communities and associated wildlife and removal of non-native species. Native plant community succession when and where observed will be reviewed for future research potential and conservation. As plant community succession will be dependent on a number of environmental factors including substrate type, a classification of spoil island substrate will be done for those islands studied. The proximity and size of valuable submerged seagrass beds will be noted with regard to boat traffic and other potential disturbances. E. The species and relative numbers of terrestrial, semi - terrestrial and aquatic spoil island faunal associates will be determined. Threatened, rare or endangered species will be noted as well as species of direct commercial and sport value. The major groups to be treated are: 1) Molluscs (e.g. oysters, clams, etc.) 2) Crustaceans (e.g. crabs, shrimp, etc.) 3) Fishes 4) Reptiles (e.g. diamondback terrapin, etc.) 5) Birds (particularly nesting colonies) 6) Mammals (e.g. raccoons,otters, sea cows, etc.)