POWERGRAMS

24 ENVIRONMENT Alabama Power and federal agencies related to the Warrior River Hydroelectric Project. "Not a lot is known about this animal's life history, diet or distribution," Baker said. "Cooperative projects like these allow us to learn more about the species, strengthen our relationships with our collaborative partners and help us to continue the company's history of environmental stewardship." Even when he can't catch the animal, water samples collected by Baker sometimes contain DNA of the Black Warrior Waterdog. Although eDNA sampling is still a relatively novel research tool, it could indicate the presence of the salamander in a particular area, allowing researchers to focus trapping efforts where the species is more likely to be found. Baker's work has confirmed the salamander lives at a previously unknown location, and recent water samples suggest at least two new locales that hadn't been known by scientists. "Beginning in 2017, the Black Warrior Waterdog was known to occur at only 14 locations in the upper Black Warrior River Basin," Baker said. "These locations are the only places in the world that this salamander lives. "Although there are only a few new locations, the additional knowledge concerning distribution is significant relative to what was already known about where the salamander occurred," Baker said. "Future sampling could use eDNA to locate other likely sites, then we will attempt to trap the animal to confirm its presence." And then, of course, let the dogs out. How to Help the Mudpuppy • Control soil erosion by planting trees and plants to avoid runoff of sediments into freshwater areas. • Help your family find ways to reduce the amount of chemicals poured down the drain in your home or used on your lawn or garden. • Support science-based conservation efforts that protect these unique animals and their habitat. Biologists have found Alabama Mudpuppy in Black Water River Basin.

• Cover