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• 1. [Article] Survey of Aquatic Plants in Corps of Engineers Reservoirs

  A survey of aquatic plants in a selected Corps of Engineers reservoirs in Oregon was conducted. Cottage Grove, Dorena, Fern Ridge, Dexter and Willow Creek Reservoirs contained abundant aquatic plants. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Survey of Aquatic Plants in Corps of Engineers Reservoirs Author: Walker, Kimberly D., Sytsma, Mark D. Year: 2000 A survey of aquatic plants in a selected Corps of Engineers reservoirs in Oregon was conducted. Cottage Grove, Dorena, Fern Ridge, Dexter and Willow Creek Reservoirs contained abundant aquatic plants. Potamogeton pectinatus and Potamogeton epihydrous were the most common native plant species. Myriophyllum aquaticum and Potamogeton crispus were the most widespread nonnative plants. Species richness in the reservoirs was correlated with trophic status and basin morphology. Shallow reservoirs that included extensive areas of nutrient-rich sediments that were historic flood plain soils supported the greatest biomass and number of species. Mesotrophic reservoirs had lower species diversity. Oligotrophic reservoirs with steep basin morphology, nutrient-poor sediments, and large water level fluctuation did not support aquatic vascular plant populations. An aquatic plant management program should be developed for the reservoirs. The program should focus on preventing introduction and spread of invasive aquatic plants and on rapid response procedures for new infestations. Those reservoirs that currently support aquatic macrophyte communities may be most susceptible to invasion and rapid spread of new introductions, however, even reservoirs that are currently free of aquatic plants may be invaded. Early detection is critical to effective implementation of rapid response procedures for invasive aquatic plant control. Annual survey of the most productive reservoirs is recommended to document introduction of new species. Plant community composition changes during the growing season, and multiple surveys during the growing season are preferred over one-time visits. Management of established populations of invasive species in the reservoirs will be difficult. Where invasive plant abundance is limited in area and number management activities may be implemented to slow dispersal and perhaps eradicate the plants. Integrated pest management procedures should be followed to ensure effective and economical aquatic plant control. Title: Survey of Aquatic Plants in Corps of Engineers Reservoirs Author: Walker, Kimberly D., Sytsma, Mark D. Year: 2000 A survey of aquatic plants in a selected Corps of Engineers reservoirs in Oregon was conducted. Cottage Grove, Dorena, Fern Ridge, Dexter and Willow Creek Reservoirs contained abundant aquatic plants. Potamogeton pectinatus and Potamogeton epihydrous were the most common native plant species. Myriophyllum aquaticum and Potamogeton crispus were the most widespread nonnative plants. Species richness in the reservoirs was correlated with trophic status and basin morphology. Shallow reservoirs that included extensive areas of nutrient-rich sediments that were historic flood plain soils supported the greatest biomass and number of species. Mesotrophic reservoirs had lower species diversity. Oligotrophic reservoirs with steep basin morphology, nutrient-poor sediments, and large water level fluctuation did not support aquatic vascular plant populations. An aquatic plant management program should be developed for the reservoirs. The program should focus on preventing introduction and spread of invasive aquatic plants and on rapid response procedures for new infestations. Those reservoirs that currently support aquatic macrophyte communities may be most susceptible to invasion and rapid spread of new introductions, however, even reservoirs that are currently free of aquatic plants may be invaded. Early detection is critical to effective implementation of rapid response procedures for invasive aquatic plant control. Annual survey of the most productive reservoirs is recommended to document introduction of new species. Plant community composition changes during the growing season, and multiple surveys during the growing season are preferred over one-time visits. Management of established populations of invasive species in the reservoirs will be difficult. Where invasive plant abundance is limited in area and number management activities may be implemented to slow dispersal and perhaps eradicate the plants. Integrated pest management procedures should be followed to ensure effective and economical aquatic plant control. Close

• 2. [Article] The Limitation of Spread of Non-native Marine Invertebrates from Artificial Structures to Natural Habitats

  Artificial structures created for aquatic anthropogenic activities are often colonized and fouled by many non-native species, few of which have invaded natural areas. Some research has indicated predation ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Limitation of Spread of Non-native Marine Invertebrates from Artificial Structures to Natural Habitats Author: McClees, Whitney, de Rivera, Catherine E. Year: 2017 Artificial structures created for aquatic anthropogenic activities are often colonized and fouled by many non-native species, few of which have invaded natural areas. Some research has indicated predation is limiting the spread of non-native species, while other research has indicated that it is dispersal-driven. To determine the effects of dispersal limitation and predation on the risk to surrounding habitats of being invaded by non-native species established on marina docks, we used a three-factor design, deploying seven unglazed ceramic panels per each treatment combination of 1) inside versus outside a marina in Yaquina Bay, Oregon; 2) cage keeping out predators >mesh size, no cage, or partial cage; 3) fixed near the substrata (benthic) versus floating 1m below the surface. We also moved panels of either adults or recruits from floating in the marina to any of the treatment combinations to test if they would have lower survival outside by the substrate. The community on panels suspended in the marina only minimally overlapped with panels outside of the marina near the bottom. However, there was no difference between the cage treatments, which suggests that predators excluded by the cages are not responsible for the observed differences in species richness or composition. Title: The Limitation of Spread of Non-native Marine Invertebrates from Artificial Structures to Natural Habitats Author: McClees, Whitney, de Rivera, Catherine E. Year: 2017 Artificial structures created for aquatic anthropogenic activities are often colonized and fouled by many non-native species, few of which have invaded natural areas. Some research has indicated predation is limiting the spread of non-native species, while other research has indicated that it is dispersal-driven. To determine the effects of dispersal limitation and predation on the risk to surrounding habitats of being invaded by non-native species established on marina docks, we used a three-factor design, deploying seven unglazed ceramic panels per each treatment combination of 1) inside versus outside a marina in Yaquina Bay, Oregon; 2) cage keeping out predators >mesh size, no cage, or partial cage; 3) fixed near the substrata (benthic) versus floating 1m below the surface. We also moved panels of either adults or recruits from floating in the marina to any of the treatment combinations to test if they would have lower survival outside by the substrate. The community on panels suspended in the marina only minimally overlapped with panels outside of the marina near the bottom. However, there was no difference between the cage treatments, which suggests that predators excluded by the cages are not responsible for the observed differences in species richness or composition. Close

• 3. [Article] The Effects of Urbanization and Human Disturbance Upon Plant Community Structure and Bird Species Richness, Diversity, and Abundance in a Natural Forested Area (Forest Park) in Portland, Oregon

  The effects of urbanization and continual human disturbance on the plant and avian communities of Forest Park and forested lands surrounding Portland, Oregon, were studied. I examined characteristics of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Effects of Urbanization and Human Disturbance Upon Plant Community Structure and Bird Species Richness, Diversity, and Abundance in a Natural Forested Area (Forest Park) in Portland, Oregon Author: Broshot, Nancy Ellen Year: 1999 The effects of urbanization and continual human disturbance on the plant and avian communities of Forest Park and forested lands surrounding Portland, Oregon, were studied. I examined characteristics of plant and avian communities at 25 sites, 24 which were in Forest Park and surrounding areas and one which was in the Ancient Forest Preserve (old-growth stand) northwest of Forest Park. Data were analyzed using multiple regression, ANOV A, and Bonferonni/Dunn. Seven variables were selected representing different urbanization gradients. An additional covariable coded for the old-growth stand, allowing it to be used as a control. Many tree variables, especially those related to shade-tolerant species, were positively correlated with both the distance from downtown Portland and the number of houses in the surrounding area, and negatively correlated with the distance from the nearest forest edge; however, many shrub and herbaceous variables were negatively correlated with the distance from downtown Portland. Species diversity for herbaceous and shrub species was greater at more urban sites, but diversity of trees was lower at more urban sites. There were significantly more non-native species of plants in the city section. I found significantly fewer saplings and small trees, especially shade-tolerant species, in the section of Forest Park closest to downtown Portland, although tree mortality was positively correlated with distance from Portland. Summer bird data revealed significant increases in the abundances of urban and edge species at more urban sites, with concomitant reductions in forest species. There were significantly more ground gleaning birds and short distance migratory species. I also found a significantly greater abundance of birds in the old-growth stand during the winter. This increase was positively correlated with the depth of snow in the nearby Cascade Mountains. My results indicate that Forest Park is apparently progressing in a normal successional pattern with the exception of the city section. The reduction in shade tolerant saplings and small trees in the city section suggest that rate of succession has been slower at more urban sites. Avian data suggest that urbanization affects bird species abundance and guild composition in the more urban areas. Title: The Effects of Urbanization and Human Disturbance Upon Plant Community Structure and Bird Species Richness, Diversity, and Abundance in a Natural Forested Area (Forest Park) in Portland, Oregon Author: Broshot, Nancy Ellen Year: 1999 The effects of urbanization and continual human disturbance on the plant and avian communities of Forest Park and forested lands surrounding Portland, Oregon, were studied. I examined characteristics of plant and avian communities at 25 sites, 24 which were in Forest Park and surrounding areas and one which was in the Ancient Forest Preserve (old-growth stand) northwest of Forest Park. Data were analyzed using multiple regression, ANOV A, and Bonferonni/Dunn. Seven variables were selected representing different urbanization gradients. An additional covariable coded for the old-growth stand, allowing it to be used as a control. Many tree variables, especially those related to shade-tolerant species, were positively correlated with both the distance from downtown Portland and the number of houses in the surrounding area, and negatively correlated with the distance from the nearest forest edge; however, many shrub and herbaceous variables were negatively correlated with the distance from downtown Portland. Species diversity for herbaceous and shrub species was greater at more urban sites, but diversity of trees was lower at more urban sites. There were significantly more non-native species of plants in the city section. I found significantly fewer saplings and small trees, especially shade-tolerant species, in the section of Forest Park closest to downtown Portland, although tree mortality was positively correlated with distance from Portland. Summer bird data revealed significant increases in the abundances of urban and edge species at more urban sites, with concomitant reductions in forest species. There were significantly more ground gleaning birds and short distance migratory species. I also found a significantly greater abundance of birds in the old-growth stand during the winter. This increase was positively correlated with the depth of snow in the nearby Cascade Mountains. My results indicate that Forest Park is apparently progressing in a normal successional pattern with the exception of the city section. The reduction in shade tolerant saplings and small trees in the city section suggest that rate of succession has been slower at more urban sites. Avian data suggest that urbanization affects bird species abundance and guild composition in the more urban areas. Close

• 4. [Article] Increased Habitat Connectivity Homogenizes Freshwater Communities: Historical and Landscape Perspectives

  Increases in habitat connectivity can have consequences for taxonomic, functional, and genetic diversity of communities. Previously isolated aquatic habitats were connected with canals and pipelines in ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Increased Habitat Connectivity Homogenizes Freshwater Communities: Historical and Landscape Perspectives Author: Strecker, Angela L., Brittain, Jeffrey Thomas Year: 2017 Increases in habitat connectivity can have consequences for taxonomic, functional, and genetic diversity of communities. Previously isolated aquatic habitats were connected with canals and pipelines in the largest water development project in the US history, the Columbia Basin Project (CBP; eastern Washington, USA), which also altered environmental conditions; however, the ecological consequences are largely unknown. Using a historical dataset, we examined long-term patterns in zooplankton communities, water chemistry and clarity, testing the hypothesis that increased connectivity will result in taxonomic homogenization. Further, we tested contemporary drivers of communities using a comprehensive set of environmental and landscape variables. Waterbodies were sampled for zooplankton community composition as well as physical and chemical variables inside and outside the CBP using methods consistent with historical studies. We found significant declines in salinity inside the CBP, whereas changes in water clarity were prevalent across all waterbodies. Increased connectivity via canals homogenized zooplankton communities over time, as well as increasing regional richness. Other long-term changes in zooplankton communities may be related to climate change, invasive species, and land-use changes. Synthesis and applications. Though canals may offer species spatial refugia, homogenization may decrease resilience to environmental stressors. These new hybrid aquatic landscapes, or hydroscapes, should be considered carefully in future water development, including specific plans for monitoring of species and environmental conditions, as well as mitigation of undesirable conditions and/or non-native species. Title: Increased Habitat Connectivity Homogenizes Freshwater Communities: Historical and Landscape Perspectives Author: Strecker, Angela L., Brittain, Jeffrey Thomas Year: 2017 Increases in habitat connectivity can have consequences for taxonomic, functional, and genetic diversity of communities. Previously isolated aquatic habitats were connected with canals and pipelines in the largest water development project in the US history, the Columbia Basin Project (CBP; eastern Washington, USA), which also altered environmental conditions; however, the ecological consequences are largely unknown. Using a historical dataset, we examined long-term patterns in zooplankton communities, water chemistry and clarity, testing the hypothesis that increased connectivity will result in taxonomic homogenization. Further, we tested contemporary drivers of communities using a comprehensive set of environmental and landscape variables. Waterbodies were sampled for zooplankton community composition as well as physical and chemical variables inside and outside the CBP using methods consistent with historical studies. We found significant declines in salinity inside the CBP, whereas changes in water clarity were prevalent across all waterbodies. Increased connectivity via canals homogenized zooplankton communities over time, as well as increasing regional richness. Other long-term changes in zooplankton communities may be related to climate change, invasive species, and land-use changes. Synthesis and applications. Though canals may offer species spatial refugia, homogenization may decrease resilience to environmental stressors. These new hybrid aquatic landscapes, or hydroscapes, should be considered carefully in future water development, including specific plans for monitoring of species and environmental conditions, as well as mitigation of undesirable conditions and/or non-native species. Close

• 5. [Article] The McKee Preserve Management Options at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

  The McKee Preserve is a new conservation area at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, located on the southern Oregon coast. The Preserve is 250 acres in size and is made up of 13 different natural resource communities. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The McKee Preserve Management Options at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Author: Edwards, Ashley Marie Year: 2009 The McKee Preserve is a new conservation area at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, located on the southern Oregon coast. The Preserve is 250 acres in size and is made up of 13 different natural resource communities. One important resource is silvery phacelia (Phacelia argentea), which is a state threatened plant species and is a species of concern federally. The goal of this project was to perform plant inventories for silvery phacelia and kinnikinnick that will be used to establish a functional management plan for the Preserve. Other resources of interest to the Preserve have been included in the literature review and management plan. A proposed par 3 golf course has also been included in the analysis and management plan of the report. Using Geographical Information Systems and Global Positioning Systems to conduct the silvery phacelia inventory showed that there are 6,803 individual plants at the Resort and 5,078 plants on the Preserve. A silvery phacelia community was found north of Cut Creek, which has not been listed as a historical site for this species. The species most likely established itself through fill materials that were seed rich, when building the second golf course on the property, Pacific Dunes. The kinnikinnick meadows have been reduced from building and opening Bandon Trails Golf Course. The remaining meadows are 1.4 acres in size. The par 3 golf course, if built, will be located in the northern portion of the Preserve and would share access with Bandon Trails Golf Course. Out of the 11 proposed holes, 9 have been approved so that impacts to the silvery phacelia will be minimized. Title: The McKee Preserve Management Options at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Author: Edwards, Ashley Marie Year: 2009 The McKee Preserve is a new conservation area at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, located on the southern Oregon coast. The Preserve is 250 acres in size and is made up of 13 different natural resource communities. One important resource is silvery phacelia (Phacelia argentea), which is a state threatened plant species and is a species of concern federally. The goal of this project was to perform plant inventories for silvery phacelia and kinnikinnick that will be used to establish a functional management plan for the Preserve. Other resources of interest to the Preserve have been included in the literature review and management plan. A proposed par 3 golf course has also been included in the analysis and management plan of the report. Using Geographical Information Systems and Global Positioning Systems to conduct the silvery phacelia inventory showed that there are 6,803 individual plants at the Resort and 5,078 plants on the Preserve. A silvery phacelia community was found north of Cut Creek, which has not been listed as a historical site for this species. The species most likely established itself through fill materials that were seed rich, when building the second golf course on the property, Pacific Dunes. The kinnikinnick meadows have been reduced from building and opening Bandon Trails Golf Course. The remaining meadows are 1.4 acres in size. The par 3 golf course, if built, will be located in the northern portion of the Preserve and would share access with Bandon Trails Golf Course. Out of the 11 proposed holes, 9 have been approved so that impacts to the silvery phacelia will be minimized. Close

• 6. [Article] Vegetation, Environmental Characteristics, and their Relationships: Variation within the Annually Flooded Riparian Zones of the John Day River Basin, Oregon

  I hypothesized that vegetation and physical environmental characteristics would differ between the upper and lower extents of the annually flooded riparian zone on the John Day River, and that relationships ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Vegetation, Environmental Characteristics, and their Relationships: Variation within the Annually Flooded Riparian Zones of the John Day River Basin, Oregon Author: Hartsfield, Samuel J. Year: 2009 I hypothesized that vegetation and physical environmental characteristics would differ between the upper and lower extents of the annually flooded riparian zone on the John Day River, and that relationships between species and environmental variables would display differences between these two zones. Vegetation, environmental variables, and relationships between them were assessed for the entire annually flooded riparian zone, and for the proposed upper and lower zones. Data were collected from 60 one-square-meter quadrats: 30 in each the upper and lower zones. Sites were randomly selected and located so that flood duration was roughly equal at all sites within each zone. 34 plant species were encountered: 25 in the upper zone, 27 in the lower zone. Wetland obligate and facultative wetland species groups and eight individual species accounted for statistically different percentages ofquadrat cover between zones. ANOSIM analysis identified two statistically distinct vegetation communities between the two zones. Soil texture averaged 75.85% sand and 20.81% fines. Sand ranged between 36.69% and 95.55%. Fines ranged between 2.54% and 58.84%. A horizon depths and fine soil particle concentrations were greater in the upper zone. Coarser soils with more sand and gravel dominated the lower zone. All enviromnental variables studied, except pH, were highly variable throughout the study area. ANOSIM analysis results suggest that the upper and lower zones have distinct, statistically different physical environments from each other. Regression analyses relating species quadrat cover to physical environmental variables were performed for the total, upper, and lower riparian zones. Numerous differences were identified between the upper and lower riparian zones that the riparian scale analyses did not represent accurately. There were ten instances in which the zone scale analyses identified a relationship in either the upper or lower zone, while the corresponding riparian scale analysis failed to identify any relationship. The results of this study indicate that vegetation and the physical environment are statistically different between the upper and lower zones on this river, and that relationships between a given plant species and environmental variable can vary between zones. Future research and management efforts should consider and address the potential for such between-zone variation. Title: Vegetation, Environmental Characteristics, and their Relationships: Variation within the Annually Flooded Riparian Zones of the John Day River Basin, Oregon Author: Hartsfield, Samuel J. Year: 2009 I hypothesized that vegetation and physical environmental characteristics would differ between the upper and lower extents of the annually flooded riparian zone on the John Day River, and that relationships between species and environmental variables would display differences between these two zones. Vegetation, environmental variables, and relationships between them were assessed for the entire annually flooded riparian zone, and for the proposed upper and lower zones. Data were collected from 60 one-square-meter quadrats: 30 in each the upper and lower zones. Sites were randomly selected and located so that flood duration was roughly equal at all sites within each zone. 34 plant species were encountered: 25 in the upper zone, 27 in the lower zone. Wetland obligate and facultative wetland species groups and eight individual species accounted for statistically different percentages ofquadrat cover between zones. ANOSIM analysis identified two statistically distinct vegetation communities between the two zones. Soil texture averaged 75.85% sand and 20.81% fines. Sand ranged between 36.69% and 95.55%. Fines ranged between 2.54% and 58.84%. A horizon depths and fine soil particle concentrations were greater in the upper zone. Coarser soils with more sand and gravel dominated the lower zone. All enviromnental variables studied, except pH, were highly variable throughout the study area. ANOSIM analysis results suggest that the upper and lower zones have distinct, statistically different physical environments from each other. Regression analyses relating species quadrat cover to physical environmental variables were performed for the total, upper, and lower riparian zones. Numerous differences were identified between the upper and lower riparian zones that the riparian scale analyses did not represent accurately. There were ten instances in which the zone scale analyses identified a relationship in either the upper or lower zone, while the corresponding riparian scale analysis failed to identify any relationship. The results of this study indicate that vegetation and the physical environment are statistically different between the upper and lower zones on this river, and that relationships between a given plant species and environmental variable can vary between zones. Future research and management efforts should consider and address the potential for such between-zone variation. Close

• 7. [Article] Community Science and the Ecological Merits of Backyard Habitat Patches and Adjacent Green-Spaces for Urban Avian Species

  In what ways do small-scale urban backyards contribute to local bird abundance and biodiversity? In what ways might these yards serve as an ‘extension’ of neighboring native forest areas? This project ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Community Science and the Ecological Merits of Backyard Habitat Patches and Adjacent Green-Spaces for Urban Avian Species Author: Gulick, Kristen S., West, Nikkie, Dresner, Marion Year: 2017 In what ways do small-scale urban backyards contribute to local bird abundance and biodiversity? In what ways might these yards serve as an ‘extension’ of neighboring native forest areas? This project investigates the contribution that a group of backyards, certified through the Backyard Habitat Certification Program, have in the suburb of Hillsdale, Oregon, which is adjacent to the natural area of Keller Woodland. Backyard owners functioning as citizen or community scientists assisted with conducting residential bird point-counts once a week in each backyard and the natural area. Counts were done for a total of 8 weeks during nesting season to better understand how backyard habitat restoration might affect their habitat especially when in close proximity to a natural area. The goal of the project was to help better understand the beneficial effects of urban gardening using native plants and diverse vegetation structure as this relates to bird species richness, and to explore the importance of community scientist contributions. Although the sample size was small, no significant trends were found, but the involvement of community scientists indicated increased skill, depth of understanding, and increased motivation for all participating backyard habitat owners. More backyards are needed for future research and extension into lower-income neighborhoods would be very beneficial to increase awareness of urban habitat connectivity and the diversity seen in backyard environmental characteristics and yard owner backyard habitat knowledge. A larger sample size could reveal correlations and provide a greater significance in data findings for bird abundance and diversity. A logical extension of this project would be to investigate food-web effects, specifically avian prey species, and smaller green-spaces that are often present in urban neighborhoods in addition to the large green-spaces. Title: Community Science and the Ecological Merits of Backyard Habitat Patches and Adjacent Green-Spaces for Urban Avian Species Author: Gulick, Kristen S., West, Nikkie, Dresner, Marion Year: 2017 In what ways do small-scale urban backyards contribute to local bird abundance and biodiversity? In what ways might these yards serve as an ‘extension’ of neighboring native forest areas? This project investigates the contribution that a group of backyards, certified through the Backyard Habitat Certification Program, have in the suburb of Hillsdale, Oregon, which is adjacent to the natural area of Keller Woodland. Backyard owners functioning as citizen or community scientists assisted with conducting residential bird point-counts once a week in each backyard and the natural area. Counts were done for a total of 8 weeks during nesting season to better understand how backyard habitat restoration might affect their habitat especially when in close proximity to a natural area. The goal of the project was to help better understand the beneficial effects of urban gardening using native plants and diverse vegetation structure as this relates to bird species richness, and to explore the importance of community scientist contributions. Although the sample size was small, no significant trends were found, but the involvement of community scientists indicated increased skill, depth of understanding, and increased motivation for all participating backyard habitat owners. More backyards are needed for future research and extension into lower-income neighborhoods would be very beneficial to increase awareness of urban habitat connectivity and the diversity seen in backyard environmental characteristics and yard owner backyard habitat knowledge. A larger sample size could reveal correlations and provide a greater significance in data findings for bird abundance and diversity. A logical extension of this project would be to investigate food-web effects, specifically avian prey species, and smaller green-spaces that are often present in urban neighborhoods in addition to the large green-spaces. Close

• 8. [Article] Effectiveness of Fuel Treatments for Mitigating Wildfire Risk and Sequestering Forest Carbon: A Case Study in the Lake Tahoe Basin

  Fuel-reduction treatments are used extensively to reduce wildfire risk and restore forest diversity and function. In the near future, increasing regulation of carbon (C) emissions may force forest managers ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Effectiveness of Fuel Treatments for Mitigating Wildfire Risk and Sequestering Forest Carbon: A Case Study in the Lake Tahoe Basin Author: Loudermilk, E. Louise, Stanton, Alison, Scheller, Robert M., Dilts, Thomas E., Weisberg, Peter J., Skinner, Carl, Yang, Jian Year: 2014 Fuel-reduction treatments are used extensively to reduce wildfire risk and restore forest diversity and function. In the near future, increasing regulation of carbon (C) emissions may force forest managers to balance the use of fuel treatments for reducing wildfire risk against an alternative goal of C sequestration. The objective of this study was to evaluate how long-term fuel treatments mitigate wildfires and affect forest C. For the Lake Tahoe Basin in the central Sierra Nevada, USA, fuel treatment efficiency was explored with a landscape-scale simulation model, LANDIS-II, using five fuel treatment scenarios and two (contemporary and potential future) fire regimes. Treatment scenarios included applying a combination of light (hand) and moderate (mechanical) forest thinning continuously through time and transitioning from these prescriptions to a more mid-seral thinning prescription, both on a 15 and 30 year rotation interval. In the last scenario, fuel treatments were isolated to around the lake shore (nearby urban settlement) to simulate a low investment alternative were future resources may be limited. Results indicated that the forest will remain a C sink regardless of treatment or fire regime simulated, due to the landscape legacy of historic logging. Achievement of a net C gain required decades with intensive treatment and depended on wildfire activity: Fuel treatments were more effective in a more active fire environment, where the interface between wildfires and treatment areas increased and caused net C gain earlier than as compared to our scenarios with less wildfire activity. Fuel treatments were most effective when continuously applied and strategically placed in high ignition areas. Treatment type and re-application interval were less influential at the landscape scale, but had notable effects on species dynamics within management units. Treatments created more diverse forest conditions by shifting dominance patterns to a more mixed conifer system, with a higher proportion of fire-tolerant species. We demonstrated that a small amount of wildfire on the landscape resulted in significant changes in the C pool, and that strategically placed fuel treatments substantially reduced wildfire risk, increased fire resiliency of the forest, and is beneficial for long-term C management. Implications for landscape management included consideration for prioritization of treatment areas and creating ideal re-entry schedules that meet logistic, safety, and conservation goals. In forests with a concentrated wildland urban interface, fuel treatments may be vital for ensuring human welfare and enhancing forest integrity in a fire-prone future. Title: Effectiveness of Fuel Treatments for Mitigating Wildfire Risk and Sequestering Forest Carbon: A Case Study in the Lake Tahoe Basin Author: Loudermilk, E. Louise, Stanton, Alison, Scheller, Robert M., Dilts, Thomas E., Weisberg, Peter J., Skinner, Carl, Yang, Jian Year: 2014 Fuel-reduction treatments are used extensively to reduce wildfire risk and restore forest diversity and function. In the near future, increasing regulation of carbon (C) emissions may force forest managers to balance the use of fuel treatments for reducing wildfire risk against an alternative goal of C sequestration. The objective of this study was to evaluate how long-term fuel treatments mitigate wildfires and affect forest C. For the Lake Tahoe Basin in the central Sierra Nevada, USA, fuel treatment efficiency was explored with a landscape-scale simulation model, LANDIS-II, using five fuel treatment scenarios and two (contemporary and potential future) fire regimes. Treatment scenarios included applying a combination of light (hand) and moderate (mechanical) forest thinning continuously through time and transitioning from these prescriptions to a more mid-seral thinning prescription, both on a 15 and 30 year rotation interval. In the last scenario, fuel treatments were isolated to around the lake shore (nearby urban settlement) to simulate a low investment alternative were future resources may be limited. Results indicated that the forest will remain a C sink regardless of treatment or fire regime simulated, due to the landscape legacy of historic logging. Achievement of a net C gain required decades with intensive treatment and depended on wildfire activity: Fuel treatments were more effective in a more active fire environment, where the interface between wildfires and treatment areas increased and caused net C gain earlier than as compared to our scenarios with less wildfire activity. Fuel treatments were most effective when continuously applied and strategically placed in high ignition areas. Treatment type and re-application interval were less influential at the landscape scale, but had notable effects on species dynamics within management units. Treatments created more diverse forest conditions by shifting dominance patterns to a more mixed conifer system, with a higher proportion of fire-tolerant species. We demonstrated that a small amount of wildfire on the landscape resulted in significant changes in the C pool, and that strategically placed fuel treatments substantially reduced wildfire risk, increased fire resiliency of the forest, and is beneficial for long-term C management. Implications for landscape management included consideration for prioritization of treatment areas and creating ideal re-entry schedules that meet logistic, safety, and conservation goals. In forests with a concentrated wildland urban interface, fuel treatments may be vital for ensuring human welfare and enhancing forest integrity in a fire-prone future. Close

• 9. [Article] Factors Affecting Snowy Plover Chick Survival in a Managed Population

  Understanding survival of precocial chicks in the period immediately following hatching has important conservation implications because population growth is often sensitive to post-hatching survival. We ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Factors Affecting Snowy Plover Chick Survival in a Managed Population Author: Dinsmore, Stephen J., Gaines, Eleanor P., Pearson, Scott F., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J. Year: 2017 Understanding survival of precocial chicks in the period immediately following hatching has important conservation implications because population growth is often sensitive to post-hatching survival. We studied federally threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) broods at the northern limit of their range in coastal Oregon (n ¼ 1,157) and Washington (n ¼ 84) from 1991 to 2011 in an attempt to understand seasonal, annual, and spatial patterns of chick survival. In Oregon, plover chick survival increased with age, varied between sites, and was greater at sites with predator management. The mean probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Oregon was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.63). In Washington, where predator management was not employed, we conducted separate analyses using individually banded and unbanded chicks and results indicated that survival generally increased with chick age. The mean estimated probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Washington was 0.27 (95% CI: 0.20, 0.35) for individually banded chicks when perfect detection was assumed. This probability increased to 0.67 (95% CI: 0.41, 0.83) when we analyzed unbanded chicks and included detection probability. Our findings confirm the importance of considering age effects in the survival of Snowy Plover chicks and raise questions about the validity of assuming perfect detection of plover chicks during brood checks. This work also highlights the benefit of predator management on chick survival. Title: Factors Affecting Snowy Plover Chick Survival in a Managed Population Author: Dinsmore, Stephen J., Gaines, Eleanor P., Pearson, Scott F., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J. Year: 2017 Understanding survival of precocial chicks in the period immediately following hatching has important conservation implications because population growth is often sensitive to post-hatching survival. We studied federally threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) broods at the northern limit of their range in coastal Oregon (n ¼ 1,157) and Washington (n ¼ 84) from 1991 to 2011 in an attempt to understand seasonal, annual, and spatial patterns of chick survival. In Oregon, plover chick survival increased with age, varied between sites, and was greater at sites with predator management. The mean probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Oregon was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.63). In Washington, where predator management was not employed, we conducted separate analyses using individually banded and unbanded chicks and results indicated that survival generally increased with chick age. The mean estimated probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Washington was 0.27 (95% CI: 0.20, 0.35) for individually banded chicks when perfect detection was assumed. This probability increased to 0.67 (95% CI: 0.41, 0.83) when we analyzed unbanded chicks and included detection probability. Our findings confirm the importance of considering age effects in the survival of Snowy Plover chicks and raise questions about the validity of assuming perfect detection of plover chicks during brood checks. This work also highlights the benefit of predator management on chick survival. Close

• 10. [Article] Advancing Collaborative Solutions: Lessons from the Oregon Sage-Grouse Conservation Partnership (SageCon)

  The Sage-Grouse Conservation Partnership, also known as “SageCon,” was an unprecedented collaborative effort among federal, state, and private stakeholders to address landscape-scale threats to greater ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Advancing Collaborative Solutions: Lessons from the Oregon Sage-Grouse Conservation Partnership (SageCon) Author: Allen, Jennifer H., Odell, Turner, Babcock, Julia, Henrie, Charis Year: 2017 The Sage-Grouse Conservation Partnership, also known as “SageCon,” was an unprecedented collaborative effort among federal, state, and private stakeholders to address landscape-scale threats to greater sage-grouse while also acknowledging rural economic and community interests across eastern Oregon’s sagebrush range. A U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) preliminary finding that the sage-grouse warranted listing under the endangered species act, and a subsequent court settlement setting a deadline for a final listing decision were key drivers for SageCon participants to seek proactive solutions to protect the bird. A cadre of diverse Eastern Oregon stakeholders with experience working collaboratively on related public lands issues helped set the stage for the collaborative effort. As part of what the Department of the Interior described as a historic outcome, SageCon produced the 2015 Oregon Sage-Grouse Action Plan, which details voluntary and state-regulated conservation measures to preserve habitat and protect Oregon’s sage-grouse population from threats on public and private land. SageCon—as one part of a broader multi-state collaborative effort—led to a subsequent USFWS finding that the sage-grouse no longer warranted listing as endangered. In our study of this collaborative effort, we interviewed seventeen SageCon participants to identify collaborative approaches that may offer promise for other conservation and public policy efforts. We explored participant motivation for engaging in the process, collaborative process design, integration of science into the SageCon deliberations, and other experiences that interviewees found relevant. Title: Advancing Collaborative Solutions: Lessons from the Oregon Sage-Grouse Conservation Partnership (SageCon) Author: Allen, Jennifer H., Odell, Turner, Babcock, Julia, Henrie, Charis Year: 2017 The Sage-Grouse Conservation Partnership, also known as “SageCon,” was an unprecedented collaborative effort among federal, state, and private stakeholders to address landscape-scale threats to greater sage-grouse while also acknowledging rural economic and community interests across eastern Oregon’s sagebrush range. A U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) preliminary finding that the sage-grouse warranted listing under the endangered species act, and a subsequent court settlement setting a deadline for a final listing decision were key drivers for SageCon participants to seek proactive solutions to protect the bird. A cadre of diverse Eastern Oregon stakeholders with experience working collaboratively on related public lands issues helped set the stage for the collaborative effort. As part of what the Department of the Interior described as a historic outcome, SageCon produced the 2015 Oregon Sage-Grouse Action Plan, which details voluntary and state-regulated conservation measures to preserve habitat and protect Oregon’s sage-grouse population from threats on public and private land. SageCon—as one part of a broader multi-state collaborative effort—led to a subsequent USFWS finding that the sage-grouse no longer warranted listing as endangered. In our study of this collaborative effort, we interviewed seventeen SageCon participants to identify collaborative approaches that may offer promise for other conservation and public policy efforts. We explored participant motivation for engaging in the process, collaborative process design, integration of science into the SageCon deliberations, and other experiences that interviewees found relevant. Close