An assessment of vegetation metrics and plot types to measure seasonal variation and grazing effects on riparian plant communities

摘要: AN ASSESSMENT OF VEGETATION METRICS AND PLOT TYPES TO MEASURE SEASONAL VARIATION GRAZING EFFECTS ON RIPARIAN PLANT COMMUNITIES by Caroline M. Laine, Master of Science Utah State University, 2011 Major Professor: Dr. Karin Kettenring Department: Watershed Sciences The variation that exists in both time and space riparian plant communities was explored five streams within the Salmon National Forest surrounding Bureau Land Management (BLM) lands central-eastern Idaho are managed for cattle grazing. In this study, we evaluated ability commonly used vegetation metrics (live cover, species richness, % forb, litter, bare ground, wetland indicator rating, graminoid, bank alteration, soil compaction, native) different plot types (static or dynamic) to assess changes over areas grazed cattle. We were particularly interested evaluating stability responsiveness found native stable across season, while live iii compaction affected seasonal variation. responded grazing similarly at all sites differently individual streams. most sensitive season ground. Plot type did not have an effect on majority This information can be land managers determine which suitable shortand long-term monitoring, ones appropriate monitoring effects (48 pages) iv PUBLIC ABSTRACT Monitoring is important public lands. Observing how respond management give insightful about practices sustainable. Because water scarce western United States, many focus their efforts along However, streamside challenging due a variety factors confounded such as climate activities, like assessments, there measurements taken glean valuable information. Some attributes interest include much present, what composition is. Furthermore, methodologies employed may affect outcome results. improving assessments communities. focused our understanding community also tested two plots see monitoring. some variation, others unaffected. not. Last permanent unnecessary. Research conducted Laine advisor, from 2009-2011. v ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I would thank my Kettenring, guiding me during last years providing with tools knowledge complete journey. committee members, Brett Roper F.E. Busby, mentoring me, guidance, aiding manuscript revisions. States Service, Rocky Mountain Station funding research. family friends supporting years. vi CONTENTS Page ii LIST TABLES vii FIGURES viii CHAPTER