Riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems of the Dixie and Fishlake National Forests: An assessment of resources and current conditions

Abstract

This assessment provides information on the current conditions of riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems on the Dixie and Fishlake National Forests. We summarized dominant riparian community types and described riparian fish and wildlife habitat. We used peer-reviewed literature, data from the Forests and other partners, and site visits to inventory and map the distribution of riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems, as well as to evaluate the status of four key ecosystem characteristics: (1) surface water and groundwater fluctuations, (2) water quality, (3) channel and floodplain dynamics including the condition of spring runout channels, and (4) composition and structure of riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems. We determined that roads, recreation, livestock use, and climate change were primary stressors to riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems on the Forests. The relative pressure of these stressors, as well as resistance and resilience of riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems, differ across geographic units. Anthropogenic activities have especially impacted the limited riparian ecosystems in the low-elevation, arid Canyon Mountains. Alternatively, riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems located at higher elevations with abundant surface water appear more resilient to stressors and generally displayed greater ecological integrity. Our results support the ecosystem assessment completed during the forest plan revision process and can help inform decisionmaking related to restoration and maintenance of riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems on the Dixie and Fishlake National Forests.

Citation

Smith, D. Max; Driscoll, Katelyn P.; Warren, Steven D.; Finch, Deborah M. 2020. Riparian and groundwater-dependent ecosystems of the Dixie and Fishlake National Forests: An assessment of resources and current conditions. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-418. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 264 p. https://doi.org/10.2737/RMRS-GTR-418 .