NPS/R. Weissinger
Riparian ecosystems are potentially sensitive indicators of landscape-level change because they are linked to both aquatic and upland systems, perform important ecological functions, and are biologically diverse. Riparian systems face a number of anthropogenic threats, including stream-flow damming or diversion, channel-stabilization structures, invasive exotic species, livestock grazing, timber harvesting, agricultural clearing, groundwater pumping, and trail creation. These disturbances can alter watershed conditions and directly or indirectly influence downstream riparian ecosystems. Developing credible, efficient monitoring approaches will help in assessing riparian system health and provide early warning of system degradation.
Riparian monitoring involves the collection of both biological and physical measures. The Northern Colorado Plateau Network (NCPN) monitors vegetation, hydrology, and geomorphology in wadeable streams with perennial (year-round), intermittent (surface flow during certain times of the year and a shallow water table in at least portions of the stream), or ephemeral (surface flow for relatively short periods in direct response to precipitation) flow regimes. Park staff select individual streams for monitoring based on management priorities. Repeat sampling of permanent transects allows us to track changes in the cover and species composition of riparian vegetation, including the relative abundance of native and nonnative species. Measures of physical drivers, including stream flow, alluvial groundwater dynamics, and changes in channel form, are used to assess whether observed changes are primarily the result of natural variability or anthropogenic stressors.
The Northern Colorado Plateau Network monitors wadeable streams at Arches National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, and Zion National Park.
Datasets for continuous stage (water-quantity) monitoring can be accessed and downloaded from the NPS Aquarius data portal.
Vital Signs: Riparian plant communities, surface water dynamics, groundwater dynamics, stream/wetland hydrologic function
Protocol Leads:
Protocol Lead: Carolyn Livensperger , Rebecca Weissinger
Publications and Other Information
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- Locations: Capitol Reef National Park
- Offices: Inventory and Monitoring Division, Natural Resource Stewardship and Science Directorate, Northern Colorado Plateau Inventory & Monitoring Network
Although groundwater levels remain shallow enough to support mature cottonwood trees, the Fremont River in Capitol Reef National Park may be at risk for progressively lower flows over time—reducing the flooding needed for new cottonwood recruitment. Find out why—and what else the Northern Colorado Plateau Network is learning about the park’s riparian systems—in this article.
- Arches National Park
Vital Signs Monitoring at Courthouse Wash, Arches National Park, 2010–2019
- Locations: Arches National Park
Riparian areas are oases of life. To evaluate the health of riparian systems, the Northern Colorado Plateau Network monitors physical and biological attributes of wadeable streams. Monitoring at Arches National Park from 2010 to 2019 revealed that the Courthouse Wash system is currently driven by natural processes rather than human effects. Future stressors are likely to be climate change and exotic-plant invasions.
- Natural Bridges National Monument
Wadeable Streams Monitoring at Natural Bridges National Monument, 2010–2018
- Locations: Natural Bridges National Monument
Riparian areas are oases of life. To evaluate the health of riparian systems, the Northern Colorado Plateau Network monitors physical and biological attributes of wadeable streams. These indicators tell us about “normal” conditions and give park managers early warning of potential problems. Monitoring at Natural Bridges National Monument from 2010 to 2018 revealed how flood events caused changes in the channel, and how plants have responded.
Source: Data Store Saved Search 2136. To search for additional information, visit the Data Store.
Source: Data Store Saved Search 479. To search for additional information, visit the Data Store.
Source: Data Store Collection 4214. To search for additional information, visit the Data Store.
Last updated: July 30, 2021