Viewpoint: Range site/ecological site information requirements for classification of riverine riparian ecosystems
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Authors: S. G. Leonard, G. J. Staidl, K. A. Gebhardt, and D. E. Prichard
Date: 1992
Journal: Journal of Range Management
Volume: 45
Number: 5
Pages: 431-435
Summary of Methods: This scientific opinion paper examined the feasibility of using ecological concepts to evaluate and describe riparian systems using examples from streams and rivers in 9 western states (Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming, Montana, California, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada, and Colorado).
Article Summary / Main Points: To establish relationships and understand the process pathways, all stream characteristics (e.g. stream type, landscape features, etc.) in riparian sites must be fully described using the site progression concept. These water features should be recorded in the subsection of the landscape section of the site description. The concept of site progression which denotes major physical state changes within a site was also proposed. It can also be described as a site change which may result in a different potential natural plant community for the site. Site classification and inventory techniques utilized on uplands can be used on riparian areas with some improvements to maintain consistency in evaluations at a management level, though this requires special attention be given to hydrology, site dynamics and map unit design.
Vegetation Types: Riparian and Wetlands
MLRA Ecoregions: Not Applicable
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Streams Ecosystems
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Scientific Opinion
Keywords: riparian classification, site progression, water features, management
Annotation: To establish relationships and understand the process pathways, all stream characteristics (e.g. stream type, landscape features, etc.) in riparian sites must be fully described using the site progression concept. These water features should be recorded in the subsection of the landscape section of the site description. The concept of site progression which denotes major physical state changes within a site was also proposed. It can also be described as a site change which may result in a different potential natural plant community for the site. Site classification and inventory techniques utilized on uplands can be used on riparian areas with some improvements to maintain consistency in evaluations at a management level, though this requires special attention be given to hydrology, site dynamics and map unit design.
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