Abstract |
The only extensive, remaining floodplain forest vegetation in the Missouri Valley in the Dakotas was studied. Data were collected to assess the water relations and nutrient status of each stand, to determine the abundance of plant species, and to examine the behavior of species along environmental gradients. It is now known, in detail, what plant species comprise the forests of the Missouri Valley, how they are arranged into plant communities, the environmental conditions found within each community, and how the meandering nature of the river influences community dynamics and development. The construction of dams has eliminated periodic flooding throughout the study area. Data collected during the course of this study indicate that flood protection has led to decreased tree growth and a decline in tree reproduction. (Modified author abstract) |