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EFFECTS OF GEOMORPHIC PROCESSES AND HYDROLOGIC REGIMES ON RIPARIAN VEGETATION
Citation:
Chambers, J. C., R. J. Tausch, J. L. Korfmacher, D. Germanoski, J. R. Miller, AND D G. Jewett*. EFFECTS OF GEOMORPHIC PROCESSES AND HYDROLOGIC REGIMES ON RIPARIAN VEGETATION. Chapter 7, Jeanne C. Chambers & Jerry R. Miller (ed.), Great Basin Riparian Ecosystems. Island Press, Washington, DC, , 196-231, (2004).
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Description:
In this chapter, the relationships among riparian vegetation and geomorphic and hydrologic processes in central Great Basin watersheds are evaluated over a range of scales. These relationships are examined through a series of case studies that have been conducted by the Great Basin Ecosystem Management Project. First, the effects of differences in the geologic and hydrologic characteristics of the watersheds (i.e., basin sensitivity to disturbance) on the composition and pattern of streamside vegetation are investigated. Second, the influence of side-valley alluvial fans on riparian vegetation composition and pattern within riparian corridors is evaluated. Third, relationships among water table regimes, riparian soils, and riparian vegetation composition and dynamics are examined at the scale of the valley segment or stream reach with an emphasis on meadow complexes. The effects of anthropogenic disturbance on meadow complexes also are evaluated at the valley segment or stream-reach scale with a focus on livestock grazing. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the implications for management and restoration.
