Adaptive Management & Monitoring
Regions 1 and 4, Rocky Mountain Research Station (RMRS)
FY01 Progress Report and FY02 Plans- October 1, 2001
Project Category: Native Seed Application and Effectiveness
Project Title: Evaluation of Post-Fire Rehabilitation Using Native Plants in the Bob Marshall Wilderness and Adjacent Lands
Project Leader: Beth Hodder, Forestry Technician, Three Forks Zone, Flathead National Forest (406)387-3810
Participating Research Contacts:
Participating Forests/Grassland Contacts: Maria Mantas, Forest Botanist, Flathead National Forest (406)863-5404
Funds - Total Project Cost and Timeframe (1-5 years):
2001: $13,100
2002: $12,300
2003-2005: (remaining costs...itemize if available)
FY2003: Gather and analyze data, prepare report, administration $ 12,800
FY2004: Gather and analyze data, prepare report, administration $ 13,300
FY2005: Gather and analyze data, prepare report, administration $ 13,800
Progress in 2001: (Narrative description of work accomplished; what has worked well; what have been barriers or difficulties in work accomplishment)
Project Narrative - This project involves monitoring post-fire seeding of native grasses (Elymus glaucus and Bromus carinatus) along sections of two trails within the Bob Marshall Wilderness and one fire line outside the wilderness near the Spotted Bear Ranger Station. This field season work included preparing the monitoring design for each site and gathering data. This winter we plan to analyze these data and prepare a first year monitoring progress report.
What worked well: On all three sites, seeding was done in a linear-belt fashion; therefore, linear transects along these seeded areas were placed in order to gather data. Along the transects, we measured nested rooted frequency as a proxy for density and in order to track changes over time. We also measured ground cover to assess changes in soil erosion potential over time. Finally, photo points were taken of each section that was seeded. Limiting data collection to specific analysis needs allowed us to develop a sampling design that was quick and easy to install, and microplots were read quickly. The photo points will be very useful as the green-up of seeded grasses stands out strikingly against the burned black backdrop.
Barriers or difficulties: Working in a wilderness area required greater coordination and involvement with district personnel, such as packers and wilderness rangers. Also, we had to coordinate the use of backcountry facilities. Hence the remote study sites required more time and money for project implementation then would be expected in front country situations.
Another problem was timing the data collection to coordinate with grass phenology so that proper identification could be made among seeded and naturally occurring grasses. The monitoring for the first site took place in late June, which proved to be somewhat early. The grasses had not emerged much before then, so we had to use vegetative characteristics to identify species. Although the grasses grew as summer went on, the inflorescences did not develop for most of them, possibly because of drought conditions this summer.
Plans for 2002:
A monitoring report with a full description of study sites and locations, sampling design methods, and data analysis for 2001 will be prepared this winter.
Next summer (2002), we plan to use the same methods to continue monitoring all three sites and will prepare a second year monitoring report the following winter.
I don't anticipate any particular needs to facilitate accomplishing the work.
Products and/or tech transfer expected in 2002:
Initial report of findings from 2001 monitoring.
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