Open-File Report 2011-1048
AbstractThe National Park Service is planning to start the restoration of the Elwha River ecosystem in Olympic National Park by removing two high head dams beginning in 2011. The potential for dispersal of exotic plants into dewatered reservoirs following dam removal, which would inhibit restoration of native vegetation, is of great concern. We focused on predicting long-distance dispersal of invasive exotic plants rather than diffusive spread because local sources of invasive species have been surveyed. We included the long-distance dispersal vectors: wind, water, birds, beavers, ungulates, and users of roads and trails. Using information about the current distribution of invasive species from two surveys, various geographic information system techniques and models, and statistical methods, we identified high-priority areas for Park staff to treat prior to dam removal, and areas of the dewatered reservoirs at risk after dam removal. |
First posted March 7, 2011 For additional information contact: Part or all of this report is presented in Portable Document Format (PDF); the latest version of Adobe Reader or similar software is required to view it. Download the latest version of Adobe Reader, free of charge. |
Woodward, Andrea, Torgersen, Christian, Chenoweth, Joshua, Beirne, Katherine, and Acker, Steve, 2011, Predicting spread of invasive exotic plants into de-watered reservoirs following dam removal on the Elwha River, Olympic National Park, Washington: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2011-1048, 64 p.
Abstract
Introduction
Methods
Long-Distance Dispersal Mechanisms of Focal Species
Distribution of Invasives
Wind Vector
Water Vector
Mammal Vectors
Bird Vectors
Road- and Trail-Associated Vectors
Priority Areas
Conclusions
Acknowledgments
References Cited