METHODS

 The model diagram in Figure 1 was used to organize

available information on the wetlands system. Data

collections were organized around the model to provide

quantitative information about interactions and energy

flows. Methods for data collection included analyzing the

rainfall record; following storks in a low-flying plane;

counting ponds; measuring the area extent of ponds,.

sloughs, and marshes; making hydrologic calculations;

sampling fish and aquatic invertebrates in a pond and

marsh; and making demographic calculations for the

population of Wood Storks.

 Throughout this study all measurements, calculations,

and references related to hydrology or land surveying are

given in English units, which are standard units in these

fields in the United States. All other units are in the

metric system.

 Following the measurements and calculations the

initial model evolved into three slightly differing models,

all of which were simulated and tested for their behavior

under different conditions of drainage. Models I and II

were simulated on an EAI Miniac analog computer using a

repeating seasonal pattern of expanding and contracting

water area. Model III was simulated on an IBM 370 digital

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