Vegetative Characterizations of Spring Ecosystem Microhabitat

Montana State University ecologist Denine Schmitz with funding through the Western National Parks Association will establish baseline vegetation data and microhabitat descriptions for spring ecosystems at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. This project will characterize spring microhabitats specific to Bighorn Canyon with a focus on plant associations, geomorphology, and hydrology. Specifically, it will provide a baseline necessary for evaluating spring vegetation condition and set the stage for monitoring spring vegetation. To date, the physical and chemical parameters of water resources have been described. Spring vegetation characterization will contribute to understanding the ecological character of springs in the park. Endemic flora and fauna are often found in springs due to their isolation, stable environmental conditions, or relict conditions. Hapeman’s coolwort (Sullivantia hapemanii var. hapemanii) is a rare plant known to occur in ten Bighorn Canyon springs. Faced with supplying water to historic ranches, visitors, and support staff, as well as protecting natural resources, park staff will need to have accurate descriptions of spring vegetation and their habitats when addressing management needs. This project is expected to begin in March 2008.