This review evaluated riparian sites associated with streams or rivers in 9 western states to determine the feasibility of using ecological site concepts in describing and evaluating riverine riparian ecosystems. Associated water features must be described in riparian site descriptions to establish relationships and understand process pathways. A concept of site progression is proposed to differentiate between secondary succession associated with vegetation changes within a given physical environment and physical state changes that lead to a new or different potential natural plant community. The authors concluded that site classification and inventory techniques in the context of range sites and ecological sites can be used on riparian areas if special attention is given to hydrology, site dynamics, and map unit design. The authors have provided these recommendations to the agencies and anticipate field trials in the near future. Field application will determine whether the enhanced techniques can be used on riparian sites as well as uplands.
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.