High mountain lake Research Natural Areas in Idaho

Abstract

High mountain lakes in Idaho total about 1800 and represent one of the most pristine type ecosystems in the country. Limnological characteristics are described for 27 lakes and 20 ponds in 32 established and proposed Research Natural Areas (RNA) representing seven subregions in the state. Field collections were made from the 1960s through 1999 by different researchers. Even though data about some of these lakes is not currently available, the databases can be updated as research continues. A classification is developed to include elevation, size, depth, production potential and lake origin. Additional information that describes the sites is pH, rock type and hydrology. Aquatic plants, zoo-plankton, immature aquatic insects and cold water vertebrates inhabiting the water bodies are described. The classification can be applied to gap analysis to identify missing or under-represented natural area types. Future research efforts can focus on covering the gaps and bringing more high mountain lakes into the RNA system.

Citation

Rabe, Fred W. 2001. High mountain lake Research Natural Areas in Idaho. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-77. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 1 CD-ROM.