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• 1. [Article] OSMB Final Report: Task 6. Tenmile Lake Boat Wash Effectiveness Monitoring

  Public awareness of aquatic invasive species and proper boat cleaning procedures may prove to be beneficial in reducing the transport and establishment of aquatic invasive species like New Zealand mud ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: OSMB Final Report: Task 6. Tenmile Lake Boat Wash Effectiveness Monitoring Author: Cimino, Samuel, Strecker, Angela L. Year: 2014 Public awareness of aquatic invasive species and proper boat cleaning procedures may prove to be beneficial in reducing the transport and establishment of aquatic invasive species like New Zealand mud snails and zebra and quagga mussels as well as hydrilla and Eurasian watermilfoil. The primary objectives of this research project were to observe the use and determine the efficacy of a public boat wash station as well as increase the public’s awareness of proper boat cleaning procedures and aquatic invasive species. The Tenmile Lakes Basin Partnership, Oregon State Marine Board, and the United States Forest Service (USFS) have undertaken an initiative to increase public awareness of invasive species and proper cleaning procedures by building a boat wash station at the Tenmile Lake public boat launch. In the summer of 2012, 199 qualitative human subject surveys were administered at Tenmile Lake in Lakeside, Oregon to boaters on their boating habits and knowledge of invasive species prior to building the boat wash (“pre-boat wash”). An extension of the 2012 study was conducted in the summer of 2013 on 200 boaters after the completion of the Tenmile Lake boat wash station (“post-boat wash”). Comparisons were made on the observations and answers of boaters prior to and after the boat wash installation. Of the boaters surveyed in the pre-boat wash field season, 75.9% of boaters claimed they would use a boat wash station at Tenmile Lake. The actual use of the boat wash station based on observations made by the field researcher during the post-boat wash field season indicated only 38.5% of surveyed boaters used the station. Furthermore, more than 20% of boaters could not verbally identify an invasive species in either field season when asked their awareness of aquatic invasive species. However, the majority of boaters surveyed at Tenmile Lake in the pre-boat wash field season (63.3%) and post-boat wash field season (66%) were aware of the phrase “Clean, Drain, Dry”. These results identify a disconnect in what boaters say and what boaters do and the knowledge gaps boaters have on aquatic invasive species, but these results also identify a growing awareness of proper boat cleaning procedures. Title: OSMB Final Report: Task 6. Tenmile Lake Boat Wash Effectiveness Monitoring Author: Cimino, Samuel, Strecker, Angela L. Year: 2014 Public awareness of aquatic invasive species and proper boat cleaning procedures may prove to be beneficial in reducing the transport and establishment of aquatic invasive species like New Zealand mud snails and zebra and quagga mussels as well as hydrilla and Eurasian watermilfoil. The primary objectives of this research project were to observe the use and determine the efficacy of a public boat wash station as well as increase the public’s awareness of proper boat cleaning procedures and aquatic invasive species. The Tenmile Lakes Basin Partnership, Oregon State Marine Board, and the United States Forest Service (USFS) have undertaken an initiative to increase public awareness of invasive species and proper cleaning procedures by building a boat wash station at the Tenmile Lake public boat launch. In the summer of 2012, 199 qualitative human subject surveys were administered at Tenmile Lake in Lakeside, Oregon to boaters on their boating habits and knowledge of invasive species prior to building the boat wash (“pre-boat wash”). An extension of the 2012 study was conducted in the summer of 2013 on 200 boaters after the completion of the Tenmile Lake boat wash station (“post-boat wash”). Comparisons were made on the observations and answers of boaters prior to and after the boat wash installation. Of the boaters surveyed in the pre-boat wash field season, 75.9% of boaters claimed they would use a boat wash station at Tenmile Lake. The actual use of the boat wash station based on observations made by the field researcher during the post-boat wash field season indicated only 38.5% of surveyed boaters used the station. Furthermore, more than 20% of boaters could not verbally identify an invasive species in either field season when asked their awareness of aquatic invasive species. However, the majority of boaters surveyed at Tenmile Lake in the pre-boat wash field season (63.3%) and post-boat wash field season (66%) were aware of the phrase “Clean, Drain, Dry”. These results identify a disconnect in what boaters say and what boaters do and the knowledge gaps boaters have on aquatic invasive species, but these results also identify a growing awareness of proper boat cleaning procedures. Close

• 2. [Article] Oregon Invasive Species Council Review

  The Oregon Invasive Species Council (OISC – “Council” is also used in this report) was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2001 [ORS 570.750, formerly 561.687]. In partnership with a broad group of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon Invasive Species Council Review Author: Draheim, Robyn, Fiegener, Rob, Gaines, Lisa Year: 2015 The Oregon Invasive Species Council (OISC – “Council” is also used in this report) was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2001 [ORS 570.750, formerly 561.687]. In partnership with a broad group of state, federal and local agencies, non-profit organizations, industry representatives and individuals, the Council created and maintains the means for citizens to report sightings of invasive species and a process by which this information is forwarded to appropriate agencies; works to increase citizen engagement and awareness of invasive issues; conducts educational meetings and conferences; and, administers a trust account for funding eradication and educational projects. In 2014, the Institute for Natural Resources (INR) was asked to assist the OISC Coordinator in conducting a review of the OISC. The purpose of the review was to provide a critical examination of the OISC mission as originally established by the state legislature, activities, funding and governance structure, and to provide recommendations for improvement of OISC efficacy. When the OISC Coordinator position fell vacant that role in the review was taken up by staff at the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs (CLR) at Portland State University. INR and the CLR took on different roles within the review. The review consisted of: (1) semi structured interviews/conversations with the directors of the state natural resource agencies directors participating in the OISC (INR); (2) semi-structured interviews/conversations with stakeholders and other members of the OISC (CLR); (3) the collection and review of relevant OISC documents (INR, CLR); and (4) conversations with other invasive species councils around the West (CLR]). Purpose and Organization of the Report: The purpose of this report is to describe and highlight salient features and results of the review of the OISC. Section 1 provides a history of the OISC. Sections 2 and 3 highlight the aggregated results of the interviews conducted with state natural resource agency directors (Section 2) and stakeholders (Section 3). Examples of how other invasive species councils in the western US operate are presented in Section 4. And Section 5 highlights recommendations. The recommendations presented in Section 5 are meant to stimulate discussion, and are not considered by the project team to be the definitive options available the OISC. Title: Oregon Invasive Species Council Review Author: Draheim, Robyn, Fiegener, Rob, Gaines, Lisa Year: 2015 The Oregon Invasive Species Council (OISC – “Council” is also used in this report) was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2001 [ORS 570.750, formerly 561.687]. In partnership with a broad group of state, federal and local agencies, non-profit organizations, industry representatives and individuals, the Council created and maintains the means for citizens to report sightings of invasive species and a process by which this information is forwarded to appropriate agencies; works to increase citizen engagement and awareness of invasive issues; conducts educational meetings and conferences; and, administers a trust account for funding eradication and educational projects. In 2014, the Institute for Natural Resources (INR) was asked to assist the OISC Coordinator in conducting a review of the OISC. The purpose of the review was to provide a critical examination of the OISC mission as originally established by the state legislature, activities, funding and governance structure, and to provide recommendations for improvement of OISC efficacy. When the OISC Coordinator position fell vacant that role in the review was taken up by staff at the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs (CLR) at Portland State University. INR and the CLR took on different roles within the review. The review consisted of: (1) semi structured interviews/conversations with the directors of the state natural resource agencies directors participating in the OISC (INR); (2) semi-structured interviews/conversations with stakeholders and other members of the OISC (CLR); (3) the collection and review of relevant OISC documents (INR, CLR); and (4) conversations with other invasive species councils around the West (CLR]). Purpose and Organization of the Report: The purpose of this report is to describe and highlight salient features and results of the review of the OISC. Section 1 provides a history of the OISC. Sections 2 and 3 highlight the aggregated results of the interviews conducted with state natural resource agency directors (Section 2) and stakeholders (Section 3). Examples of how other invasive species councils in the western US operate are presented in Section 4. And Section 5 highlights recommendations. The recommendations presented in Section 5 are meant to stimulate discussion, and are not considered by the project team to be the definitive options available the OISC. Close

• 3. [Article] Oregon Lake Watch, 2014 Annual Report

  The Oregon Lake Watch (OLW) volunteer monitoring program is now in its second year of operation, continuing its focus on early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS), with a secondary focus on lake ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon Lake Watch, 2014 Annual Report Author: Jordan, Meredith, Miller, Rich, Strecker, Angela L. Year: 2015 The Oregon Lake Watch (OLW) volunteer monitoring program is now in its second year of operation, continuing its focus on early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS), with a secondary focus on lake water quality. The aquatic invasive species chosen as Watch List priorities for the OLW are based on the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Noxious Weed List (Oregon Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Control Program 2014) as well as professional judgement (more information can be found in Oregon Lake Watch Final Report 2014). This report summarizes the data collected by 15 of 24 OLW volunteers over 2014, across 110 sampling events and 20 Oregon lakes. Data collected by trained volunteers includes sightings of both native and aquatic invasive plants and animals, as well as recordings of lake temperature profiles, and Secchi depth, a measure of clarity. Of the 16 original water bodies surveyed in OLW’s first year (2013), 12 were surveyed again in 2014, and 8 are new waterbodies. Long-term monitoring of these lakes provides valuable information over time, and expanding the number of lakes monitored, especially in the case of monitoring for invasive species, means that more potentially harmful invasions can be stopped sooner. Ideally, the OLW will continue to monitor these current lakes, and expand their volunteer network to cover more waterbodies across Oregon as this program continues to grow. Title: Oregon Lake Watch, 2014 Annual Report Author: Jordan, Meredith, Miller, Rich, Strecker, Angela L. Year: 2015 The Oregon Lake Watch (OLW) volunteer monitoring program is now in its second year of operation, continuing its focus on early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS), with a secondary focus on lake water quality. The aquatic invasive species chosen as Watch List priorities for the OLW are based on the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Noxious Weed List (Oregon Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Control Program 2014) as well as professional judgement (more information can be found in Oregon Lake Watch Final Report 2014). This report summarizes the data collected by 15 of 24 OLW volunteers over 2014, across 110 sampling events and 20 Oregon lakes. Data collected by trained volunteers includes sightings of both native and aquatic invasive plants and animals, as well as recordings of lake temperature profiles, and Secchi depth, a measure of clarity. Of the 16 original water bodies surveyed in OLW’s first year (2013), 12 were surveyed again in 2014, and 8 are new waterbodies. Long-term monitoring of these lakes provides valuable information over time, and expanding the number of lakes monitored, especially in the case of monitoring for invasive species, means that more potentially harmful invasions can be stopped sooner. Ideally, the OLW will continue to monitor these current lakes, and expand their volunteer network to cover more waterbodies across Oregon as this program continues to grow. Close

• 4. [Article] Aquatic Invasive Species Surveys of Eastern Oregon Waterbodies in 2013 and 2014

  Early detection aquatic invasive species (AIS) surveys were conducted at 33 Eastern Oregon waterbodies during the summers of 2013 and 2014. Submerged aquatic plants, gastropods, bivalves, and crayfish ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Aquatic Invasive Species Surveys of Eastern Oregon Waterbodies in 2013 and 2014 Author: Miller, Rich, Sytsma, Mark D. Year: 2014 Early detection aquatic invasive species (AIS) surveys were conducted at 33 Eastern Oregon waterbodies during the summers of 2013 and 2014. Submerged aquatic plants, gastropods, bivalves, and crayfish were collected using a thatch rake, benthic dredge, plankton net, and modified minnow traps. Shoreline aquatic noxious weeds were noted when present and water quality characteristics were measured. Two AIS snail species, one AIS crayfish species, and five AIS plant species were detected during the surveys. Big-ear radix snails (Radix auricularia) were newly detected at 14 waterbodies distributed across the survey area. Chinese mystery snails (Cipangopaludina chinensis) were detected in one waterbody. Rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) were newly found at high densities at one lake. AIS plant species included Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), a hybrid of Eurasian with the native northern watermilfoil (M. spicatum x sibiricum), curlyleaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus), fragrant waterlily (Nymphaea odorata) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea). Fifty-six native aquatic plant species were identified in the waterbodies. Water quality conditions ranged from clear, low ionic strength water to highly turbid, productive, high ionic strength water. Title: Aquatic Invasive Species Surveys of Eastern Oregon Waterbodies in 2013 and 2014 Author: Miller, Rich, Sytsma, Mark D. Year: 2014 Early detection aquatic invasive species (AIS) surveys were conducted at 33 Eastern Oregon waterbodies during the summers of 2013 and 2014. Submerged aquatic plants, gastropods, bivalves, and crayfish were collected using a thatch rake, benthic dredge, plankton net, and modified minnow traps. Shoreline aquatic noxious weeds were noted when present and water quality characteristics were measured. Two AIS snail species, one AIS crayfish species, and five AIS plant species were detected during the surveys. Big-ear radix snails (Radix auricularia) were newly detected at 14 waterbodies distributed across the survey area. Chinese mystery snails (Cipangopaludina chinensis) were detected in one waterbody. Rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) were newly found at high densities at one lake. AIS plant species included Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), a hybrid of Eurasian with the native northern watermilfoil (M. spicatum x sibiricum), curlyleaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus), fragrant waterlily (Nymphaea odorata) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea). Fifty-six native aquatic plant species were identified in the waterbodies. Water quality conditions ranged from clear, low ionic strength water to highly turbid, productive, high ionic strength water. Close

• 5. [Article] Rapid Purging of Genetic Load in a Metapopulation and Consequences for Range Expansion in an Invasive Plant

  Invasive species often display high fitness despite bottlenecks and inbreeding during establishment. We address this paradox through simulations and experiments that assess the potential for purging of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Rapid Purging of Genetic Load in a Metapopulation and Consequences for Range Expansion in an Invasive Plant Author: Marchini, Gina L., Sherlock, Nena Cole, Ramakrishnan, Alisa P., Rosenthal, David M., Cruzan, Mitchell B. Year: 2016 Invasive species often display high fitness despite bottlenecks and inbreeding during establishment. We address this paradox through simulations and experiments that assess the potential for purging of genetic load during range expansion. Success of invaders often depends on the production of vigorous inbred offspring allowing for rapid population growth after colonization. Substantial genetic load of outbreeding species reduces the fitness of offspring as inbreeding ensues during the establishment of populations. In our simulations, sustained selfing or outcrossing within isolated populations did little to remove deleterious mutations. Conversely, inbreeding combined with periodic gene flow resulted in efficient purging and accelerated rates of range expansion. Purging efficiency was dependent on initial genetic diversity levels, in line with predictions that multiple introductions facilitate invasion and the evolution of more aggressive invaders. Simulation predictions were tested using the invasive species Brachypodium sylvaticum. Homozygous populations on B. sylvaticum’s range periphery displayed lower inbreeding depression compared to heterozygous populations near introduction sites. Empirical tests with B. sylvaticum demonstrate that purging of genetic load is a plausible scenario promoting range expansion during invasion. Title: Rapid Purging of Genetic Load in a Metapopulation and Consequences for Range Expansion in an Invasive Plant Author: Marchini, Gina L., Sherlock, Nena Cole, Ramakrishnan, Alisa P., Rosenthal, David M., Cruzan, Mitchell B. Year: 2016 Invasive species often display high fitness despite bottlenecks and inbreeding during establishment. We address this paradox through simulations and experiments that assess the potential for purging of genetic load during range expansion. Success of invaders often depends on the production of vigorous inbred offspring allowing for rapid population growth after colonization. Substantial genetic load of outbreeding species reduces the fitness of offspring as inbreeding ensues during the establishment of populations. In our simulations, sustained selfing or outcrossing within isolated populations did little to remove deleterious mutations. Conversely, inbreeding combined with periodic gene flow resulted in efficient purging and accelerated rates of range expansion. Purging efficiency was dependent on initial genetic diversity levels, in line with predictions that multiple introductions facilitate invasion and the evolution of more aggressive invaders. Simulation predictions were tested using the invasive species Brachypodium sylvaticum. Homozygous populations on B. sylvaticum’s range periphery displayed lower inbreeding depression compared to heterozygous populations near introduction sites. Empirical tests with B. sylvaticum demonstrate that purging of genetic load is a plausible scenario promoting range expansion during invasion. Close

• 6. [Article] OSMB Final Report, Task 7: Online Atlas of Oregon Lakes - Aquatic Invasive Species Interface

  In order to educate a broad cross section of the public about Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) distributions and survey efforts in Oregon’s lakes and reservoirs, database connections were created to display ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: OSMB Final Report, Task 7: Online Atlas of Oregon Lakes - Aquatic Invasive Species Interface Author: Miller, Rich, Sytsma, Mark D. Year: 2014 In order to educate a broad cross section of the public about Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) distributions and survey efforts in Oregon’s lakes and reservoirs, database connections were created to display AIS information on the Online Atlas of Oregon Lakes (aol.research.pdx.edu/). The connections allowed for the dynamic display of AIS survey records stored in three separate databases: the Center for Lakes and Reservoir’s Oregon Aquatic Plant and Mussel Databases and the iMapInvasives database. AIS survey records collected by the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs were also reported to the iMapInvasives database. Title: OSMB Final Report, Task 7: Online Atlas of Oregon Lakes - Aquatic Invasive Species Interface Author: Miller, Rich, Sytsma, Mark D. Year: 2014 In order to educate a broad cross section of the public about Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) distributions and survey efforts in Oregon’s lakes and reservoirs, database connections were created to display AIS information on the Online Atlas of Oregon Lakes (aol.research.pdx.edu/). The connections allowed for the dynamic display of AIS survey records stored in three separate databases: the Center for Lakes and Reservoir’s Oregon Aquatic Plant and Mussel Databases and the iMapInvasives database. AIS survey records collected by the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs were also reported to the iMapInvasives database. Close

• 7. [Article] An Investigation of Invasion: Boater Knowledge Concerning Aquatic Invasive Species and the Influence of the New Zealand Mud Snail on Benthic Food Webs

  Invasive species are second only to habitat loss as a leading cause of native species displacement and the management of invasive species costs hundreds of billions annually. Invasion is often conceptualized ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: An Investigation of Invasion: Boater Knowledge Concerning Aquatic Invasive Species and the Influence of the New Zealand Mud Snail on Benthic Food Webs Author: Cimino, Samuel Anthony Year: 2016 Invasive species are second only to habitat loss as a leading cause of native species displacement and the management of invasive species costs hundreds of billions annually. Invasion is often conceptualized as a series of stages (Transport, Introduction, Establishment, and Spread), which encourages ecologists to isolate factors that might enable a species to pass from one stage to another and therefore guide prevention or impact management. This thesis addresses each stage of invasion and attempts to determine where management might succeed in preventing invasion or minimizing impacts. The transport and introduction of aquatic invasive species (AIS) was analyzed by conducting a three tier human subjects survey at Tenmile Lake, Oregon over a two year period in which a public boat wash station was built and installed. Assessing boater knowledge of AIS and understanding proper boat cleaning procedure is useful in determining the threat of transport and introduction as overland boater movements is a major vector of AIS. The comparison between pre- and post- boat wash surveys indicate that there is a disconnect between what boaters say they will do and how they actually behave. While 75.9% of boaters from the pre-survey claimed they would use a boat wash station at Tenmile Lake, only 38.5% of post-survey boaters were observed using the station. Furthermore, the surveys identified knowledge gaps of boaters' awareness of AIS. More than 20.0% of boaters surveyed could not verbally name any AIS. To better understand the establishment and spread stages of invasion, I examined the influence of a specific AIS, the New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum; NZMS), on benthic food webs throughout three very different aquatic ecosystems (lakes, rivers, and estuaries). Samples of benthic lake, river, and estuarine invertebrates were collected, identified, and counted, and stable isotope analyses (SIA) were conducted on several components of the food web. NZMS densities were found to be dynamic, with population densities fluctuating over time and between locations. A significant negative relationship between NZMS density and community diversity across all ecosystems was found. However, the densities of specific feeding groups had varying positive (omnivores) and negative (herbivores) correlations with NZMS densities. Furthermore, SIA indicated that NZMS don't appear to be competing with native macroinvertebrates for the same food source. NZMS were found to have different influences on each invaded ecosystem, thus management of this particular AIS is difficult once established and spreading. The results of this thesis suggest that prevention of the transport and introduction of NZMS needs to be the focus for future management. Preventative management should include public outreach regarding AIS and proper boat cleaning procedure, and management should also emphasize the need for regional policies and regulations on the transport of AIS rather than site or state specific policies and regulations. Title: An Investigation of Invasion: Boater Knowledge Concerning Aquatic Invasive Species and the Influence of the New Zealand Mud Snail on Benthic Food Webs Author: Cimino, Samuel Anthony Year: 2016 Invasive species are second only to habitat loss as a leading cause of native species displacement and the management of invasive species costs hundreds of billions annually. Invasion is often conceptualized as a series of stages (Transport, Introduction, Establishment, and Spread), which encourages ecologists to isolate factors that might enable a species to pass from one stage to another and therefore guide prevention or impact management. This thesis addresses each stage of invasion and attempts to determine where management might succeed in preventing invasion or minimizing impacts. The transport and introduction of aquatic invasive species (AIS) was analyzed by conducting a three tier human subjects survey at Tenmile Lake, Oregon over a two year period in which a public boat wash station was built and installed. Assessing boater knowledge of AIS and understanding proper boat cleaning procedure is useful in determining the threat of transport and introduction as overland boater movements is a major vector of AIS. The comparison between pre- and post- boat wash surveys indicate that there is a disconnect between what boaters say they will do and how they actually behave. While 75.9% of boaters from the pre-survey claimed they would use a boat wash station at Tenmile Lake, only 38.5% of post-survey boaters were observed using the station. Furthermore, the surveys identified knowledge gaps of boaters' awareness of AIS. More than 20.0% of boaters surveyed could not verbally name any AIS. To better understand the establishment and spread stages of invasion, I examined the influence of a specific AIS, the New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum; NZMS), on benthic food webs throughout three very different aquatic ecosystems (lakes, rivers, and estuaries). Samples of benthic lake, river, and estuarine invertebrates were collected, identified, and counted, and stable isotope analyses (SIA) were conducted on several components of the food web. NZMS densities were found to be dynamic, with population densities fluctuating over time and between locations. A significant negative relationship between NZMS density and community diversity across all ecosystems was found. However, the densities of specific feeding groups had varying positive (omnivores) and negative (herbivores) correlations with NZMS densities. Furthermore, SIA indicated that NZMS don't appear to be competing with native macroinvertebrates for the same food source. NZMS were found to have different influences on each invaded ecosystem, thus management of this particular AIS is difficult once established and spreading. The results of this thesis suggest that prevention of the transport and introduction of NZMS needs to be the focus for future management. Preventative management should include public outreach regarding AIS and proper boat cleaning procedure, and management should also emphasize the need for regional policies and regulations on the transport of AIS rather than site or state specific policies and regulations. Close

• 8. [Article] An Analysis of Vegetation Recovery following Dam Removal at Hemlock Recreation Site, Washington

  Dam removals are becoming increasingly common as dams reach their life expectancy and face costly upgrades associated with relicensing. Though removal is often viewed as a success in terms of ecological ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: An Analysis of Vegetation Recovery following Dam Removal at Hemlock Recreation Site, Washington Author: Ramsey, Greer Stewart Year: 2014 Dam removals are becoming increasingly common as dams reach their life expectancy and face costly upgrades associated with relicensing. Though removal is often viewed as a success in terms of ecological restoration, it also represents a major disturbance to an area. Previous research has shown that native species do not survive as well at these disturbed sites, and invasive species often dominate. This study examines the vegetation response in the drained reservoir area after the removal of Hemlock Dam on Trout Creek, a tributary to the Wind River in southern Washington. Transects were established and quadrats were sampled to determine the plant classifications and cover of vegetation and to examine possible correlations between environmental variables and the spatial distribution of plant classification groups. Sampling took place in the third and fourth years following dam removal, and the data was analyzed to determine significant changes and relationships. The results of this study showed that the site was dominated by a volunteer native forb Lotus purshianus (Spanish clover) and a planted native tree Alnus rubra (red alder). Most of the other species found were native volunteer forbs and grasses characteristic of early succession in this region. Both invasive species and planted species, with the exception of Alnus rubra, had low canopy covers. There was a significant increase in native plant canopy cover, as well as total canopy cover, from 2012 to 2013. There were also significant relationships between plant classification groups and environmental variables, including soil infiltration, elevation, and distance from stream. This study will help inform resource managers about the kinds of plants that will volunteer after dam removals and the possible success of re-vegetation projects. Title: An Analysis of Vegetation Recovery following Dam Removal at Hemlock Recreation Site, Washington Author: Ramsey, Greer Stewart Year: 2014 Dam removals are becoming increasingly common as dams reach their life expectancy and face costly upgrades associated with relicensing. Though removal is often viewed as a success in terms of ecological restoration, it also represents a major disturbance to an area. Previous research has shown that native species do not survive as well at these disturbed sites, and invasive species often dominate. This study examines the vegetation response in the drained reservoir area after the removal of Hemlock Dam on Trout Creek, a tributary to the Wind River in southern Washington. Transects were established and quadrats were sampled to determine the plant classifications and cover of vegetation and to examine possible correlations between environmental variables and the spatial distribution of plant classification groups. Sampling took place in the third and fourth years following dam removal, and the data was analyzed to determine significant changes and relationships. The results of this study showed that the site was dominated by a volunteer native forb Lotus purshianus (Spanish clover) and a planted native tree Alnus rubra (red alder). Most of the other species found were native volunteer forbs and grasses characteristic of early succession in this region. Both invasive species and planted species, with the exception of Alnus rubra, had low canopy covers. There was a significant increase in native plant canopy cover, as well as total canopy cover, from 2012 to 2013. There were also significant relationships between plant classification groups and environmental variables, including soil infiltration, elevation, and distance from stream. This study will help inform resource managers about the kinds of plants that will volunteer after dam removals and the possible success of re-vegetation projects. Close

• 9. [Article] Mechanisms of Adaptation in the Newly Invasive Species <i>Brachypodium sylvaticum</i> (Hudson) Beauv.

  It is common knowledge that invasive species cause worldwide ecological and economic damage, and are nearly impossible to eradicate. However, upon introduction to a novel environment, alien species should ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mechanisms of Adaptation in the Newly Invasive Species <i>Brachypodium sylvaticum</i> (Hudson) Beauv. Author: Marchini, Gina Lola Year: 2015 It is common knowledge that invasive species cause worldwide ecological and economic damage, and are nearly impossible to eradicate. However, upon introduction to a novel environment, alien species should be the underdogs: They are present in small numbers, possess low genetic diversity, and have not adapted to the climate and competitors present in the new habitat. So, how are alien species able to invade an environment occupied by native species that have already adapted to the local environment? To discover some answers to this apparent paradox I conducted four ecological genetic studies that utilized the invasive species Brachypodium sylvaticum (Hudson) Beauv. to determine mechanisms contributing to adaptation and success in the novel habitat. The first study used simulations and experiments to test the hypothesis that genetic purging, the process where genetic load is reduced by selection against the recessive deleterious alleles expressed in the homozygous state, promotes invasive range expansion. I found that homozygous populations on B. sylvaticum's range periphery displayed lower inbreeding depression compared to heterozygous populations near introduction sites. Empirical tests with B. sylvaticum further demonstrate that purging of genetic load is a plausible scenario promoting range expansion during invasion. Next, I explored how the interaction between population genetic diversity and the environment contributed to the establishment and spread of Brachypodium sylvaticum. I found that nitrogen application increases both final size and shoot biomass for B. sylvaticum individuals from source populations with low HS levels to levels found in individuals from populations with high HS. A coefficient of relative competition intensity index (RCI) displayed reduced effects of interspecific competition on B. sylvaticum biomass in high nitrogen plots. Results show that elevated nitrogen deposition is a factor that increases establishment of introduced species with historically small effective population sizes. Thirdly, I investigated phenotypic differentiation during the establishment and range expansion of Brachypodium sylvaticum. Utilizing a novel approach, unique alleles were used to determine the genetic probability of contribution from native source regions to invasive regions. These probabilities were integrated into QST-FST comparisons to determine the influence of selection and genetic drift on twelve physiological and anatomical traits associated with drought stress. Phenotypic divergence greater than neutral expectations was found for five traits between native and invasive populations, indicating selective divergence. Results from this study show that the majority of divergence in B. sylvaticum occurred after introduction to the novel environment, but prior to invasive range expansion. The final chapter of my dissertation investigates the adaptive role of genetic differentiation and plasticity for Brachypodium sylvaticum invasion. Plasticity was measured across treatments of contrasting water availability. Linear and nonlinear selection gradients determined the effect of directional and quadratic selection on plasticity and genetic differentiation. Invasive trait divergence was a consequence of post-introduction selection leading to genetic differentiation, as there were no plastic responses to contrasting water availability for any measured traits. Genetic divergence of invasive plants was not consistently in the direction indicated by selection, suggesting limitations of selection that may be a consequence of physical constraints and/or tradeoffs between growth and abiotic tolerance. Results suggest that selection, rather than plasticity, is driving phenotypic change in the invaded environment. The combined volume of these studies contributes significantly to the field of invasion and plant biology by providing novel insights into the processes underlying range expansion, adaptation, and ultimately, evolution of introduced species. Title: Mechanisms of Adaptation in the Newly Invasive Species <i>Brachypodium sylvaticum</i> (Hudson) Beauv. Author: Marchini, Gina Lola Year: 2015 It is common knowledge that invasive species cause worldwide ecological and economic damage, and are nearly impossible to eradicate. However, upon introduction to a novel environment, alien species should be the underdogs: They are present in small numbers, possess low genetic diversity, and have not adapted to the climate and competitors present in the new habitat. So, how are alien species able to invade an environment occupied by native species that have already adapted to the local environment? To discover some answers to this apparent paradox I conducted four ecological genetic studies that utilized the invasive species Brachypodium sylvaticum (Hudson) Beauv. to determine mechanisms contributing to adaptation and success in the novel habitat. The first study used simulations and experiments to test the hypothesis that genetic purging, the process where genetic load is reduced by selection against the recessive deleterious alleles expressed in the homozygous state, promotes invasive range expansion. I found that homozygous populations on B. sylvaticum's range periphery displayed lower inbreeding depression compared to heterozygous populations near introduction sites. Empirical tests with B. sylvaticum further demonstrate that purging of genetic load is a plausible scenario promoting range expansion during invasion. Next, I explored how the interaction between population genetic diversity and the environment contributed to the establishment and spread of Brachypodium sylvaticum. I found that nitrogen application increases both final size and shoot biomass for B. sylvaticum individuals from source populations with low HS levels to levels found in individuals from populations with high HS. A coefficient of relative competition intensity index (RCI) displayed reduced effects of interspecific competition on B. sylvaticum biomass in high nitrogen plots. Results show that elevated nitrogen deposition is a factor that increases establishment of introduced species with historically small effective population sizes. Thirdly, I investigated phenotypic differentiation during the establishment and range expansion of Brachypodium sylvaticum. Utilizing a novel approach, unique alleles were used to determine the genetic probability of contribution from native source regions to invasive regions. These probabilities were integrated into QST-FST comparisons to determine the influence of selection and genetic drift on twelve physiological and anatomical traits associated with drought stress. Phenotypic divergence greater than neutral expectations was found for five traits between native and invasive populations, indicating selective divergence. Results from this study show that the majority of divergence in B. sylvaticum occurred after introduction to the novel environment, but prior to invasive range expansion. The final chapter of my dissertation investigates the adaptive role of genetic differentiation and plasticity for Brachypodium sylvaticum invasion. Plasticity was measured across treatments of contrasting water availability. Linear and nonlinear selection gradients determined the effect of directional and quadratic selection on plasticity and genetic differentiation. Invasive trait divergence was a consequence of post-introduction selection leading to genetic differentiation, as there were no plastic responses to contrasting water availability for any measured traits. Genetic divergence of invasive plants was not consistently in the direction indicated by selection, suggesting limitations of selection that may be a consequence of physical constraints and/or tradeoffs between growth and abiotic tolerance. Results suggest that selection, rather than plasticity, is driving phenotypic change in the invaded environment. The combined volume of these studies contributes significantly to the field of invasion and plant biology by providing novel insights into the processes underlying range expansion, adaptation, and ultimately, evolution of introduced species. Close

• 10. [Article] OSMB Final Report, Task 4: Oregon Lake Watch

  The Oregon Lake Watch (OLW) volunteer monitoring program was resurrected after over a decade in hibernation. The new program was designed to educate the public about threats of aquatic invasive species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: OSMB Final Report, Task 4: Oregon Lake Watch Author: Strecker, Angela L., Miller, Rich, Morgan, Vanessa Year: 2014 The Oregon Lake Watch (OLW) volunteer monitoring program was resurrected after over a decade in hibernation. The new program was designed to educate the public about threats of aquatic invasive species (AIS), provide early detection of AIS invasions, and provide long term water quality data for the better management of Oregon’s lakes and reservoirs. Protocols were created for citizen scientists to survey for AIS, collect temperature and water clarity data, and record the data through an online data entry portal. An OLW website was developed to educate about AIS and provide survey protocols and identification materials to volunteers. AIS surveys were focused on Watch List Species which are selected AIS that have a negative impact on the beneficial uses of our waterbodies. Eighteen volunteers were trained during five sessions conducted in western and central Oregon. Fourteen of the trained volunteers collected data from sixteen waterbodies. Six Watch List species and one other AIS species were observed in four of the waterbodies. The three Watch List Species observed in Salish Pond and one in Olallie Lake were new observations. Temperature measurements indicated a wide range of thermal profiles and Secchi transparency measurement indicated a range of trophic status from oligotrophic to eutrophic. Title: OSMB Final Report, Task 4: Oregon Lake Watch Author: Strecker, Angela L., Miller, Rich, Morgan, Vanessa Year: 2014 The Oregon Lake Watch (OLW) volunteer monitoring program was resurrected after over a decade in hibernation. The new program was designed to educate the public about threats of aquatic invasive species (AIS), provide early detection of AIS invasions, and provide long term water quality data for the better management of Oregon’s lakes and reservoirs. Protocols were created for citizen scientists to survey for AIS, collect temperature and water clarity data, and record the data through an online data entry portal. An OLW website was developed to educate about AIS and provide survey protocols and identification materials to volunteers. AIS surveys were focused on Watch List Species which are selected AIS that have a negative impact on the beneficial uses of our waterbodies. Eighteen volunteers were trained during five sessions conducted in western and central Oregon. Fourteen of the trained volunteers collected data from sixteen waterbodies. Six Watch List species and one other AIS species were observed in four of the waterbodies. The three Watch List Species observed in Salish Pond and one in Olallie Lake were new observations. Temperature measurements indicated a wide range of thermal profiles and Secchi transparency measurement indicated a range of trophic status from oligotrophic to eutrophic. Close