NPS: Nature & Science » Networks: Northern Colorado Plateau Network

Integrated Riparian Monitoring

Importance
Riparian ecosystems are potentially sensitive indicators of landscape-level change because they are linked to both aquatic and upland systems, perform important ecological functions, and have high levels of biological diversity. Riparian systems face a number of anthropogenic threats, including damming or diversion of streamflow, channel-stabilization structures, invasive exotic species, livestock grazing, timber harvesting, agricultural clearing, groundwater pumping, and the creation of trails within riparian corridors. These disturbances can alter watershed conditions and thus indirectly influence downstream riparian ecosystems. Developing credible, efficient monitoring approaches will help in assessing riparian-system health and provide early warning of system degradation.

Nested quadrats used to measure riparian vegetation.

Long-term Monitoring
Integrated riparian monitoring involves the collection of both biological and physical measures. In conjunction with existing information, repeat sampling of permanent transects and quadrats will be used to track changes in the aerial coverage, structural diversity, and species richness of riparian vegetation, including the relative abundance of native and non-native species. Integrated measures of physical drivers will be used to assess the extent to which observed changes are primarily the result of either inherent natural variability or anthropogenic stressors.

For more detailed information, see the In-depth Information box below.

Network park units where integrated riparian monitoring occurs
Arches NP	Curecanti NRA
Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP	Dinosaur NM
Canyonlands NP	Natural Bridges NM
Capitol Reef NP	Zion NP
NP = National Park; NM = National Monument; NRA = National Recreation Area

In-depth Information:

Monitoring Briefs:
Monitoring Protocol:	In development
Contact:	Dustin Perkins, dustin_w_perkins@nps.gov; Dana Witwicki, dana_witwicki@nps.gov

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