A historical review of human activities influencing stream and riparian ecosystems in eastern Washington and Oregon shows that cumulative effects of resource uses and management, over the past two decades, are altering the health of many river basins. Past practices, such as livestock grazing and forest harvest, near riparian areas and streams became collectively significant over long time periods and are continuing today. Case histories for four basins provide chronologies of events that shaped the present day landscapes and socio-economic conditions of the region. Management histories show minimal actions for reducing damage to stream and riparian ecosystems. Many agencies strive to develop procedures for treating the symptoms of degraded ecosystems, while giving little consideration to the causes. The continuous dissent by interested parties only adds to the plight of fish, as available water and habitats continue to decline. New basin-wide management strategies of federal and environmental organizations offer hope for improving the ecosystem biodiversity and populations of fish and wildlife.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.