Restoration Initiatives

Invasive species

The ecological impacts of non-native invasive species are recognized as a global problem and numerous researchers have concluded that invasive plants represent one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. On the Kane and Two Mile ranches, and throughout the Southwestern United States, historical livestock overgrazing, fire, changes in streamflow caused by dams and water diversions, and changes in climate have facilitated the establishment of invasive non-native species, which in turn have led to drastic changes in grassland, shrubland, forest, and riparian ecosystems across the region. Our work, as it relates to invasive species, has primarily focused on cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) in upland areas and Tamarisk (Tamarix ramosissima) in riparian habitats. These species currently pose the greatest threat to ecological conditions on the Kane and Two Mile Ranches.

Invasive plant species such as cheatgrass can dramatically alter the frequency and severity of fire. Cheatgrass can expand dramatically in response to fire, or to any activity, including poorly planned restoration work, where soil disturbance occurs. Once cheatgrass comes to dominate an area, it is nearly impossible to eradicate, and extremely difficult to control. Once established, cheatgrass crowds out most other native plant species, and can grow in pure stands. Cheatgrass “cures” early in the fire season, is very flammable, and spreads easily after fire, creating a frequent, “flashy” fire cycle that perpetuates cheatgrass while eliminating woody species and many natives.

Tamarisk is another highly invasive non-native plant species that has infiltrated riparian habitats throughout the Southwest. Tamarisk can alter soil nutrients and groundwater availability, and can displace native vegetation following disturbances such as flooding or drought. A mature tamarisk can produce hundreds of thousands of seeds in a single year that are quickly dispersed by wind and water. The high competitive and reproductive success of tamarisk often results in dense stands that crowd out native cottonwoods and willows. These changes, in turn, reduce the diversity of other plants and wildlife species, increase fire hazard, and alter stream hydrology.

Results from our baseline assessment have identified areas on the Ranches where invasive non-native species have become established and our continued research efforts will help us to identify where invasive species control work and restoration of native plant communities can be effective. 

Currently, we are involved with 5 projects that begin to address invasive species issues on the Kane and Two Mile Ranches. Click on the links to the right to learn more about these projects!