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Functions
& Conditions -
Evaluating the Biological Features
Woody
species age class distribution
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age classes of woody species are present is an important indication
of the health of a riparian area. Just as a herd of only mature
cows is not desirable for the long-term sustainability of a
ranch, the same can be said about the presence of only mature
trees and shrubs with regard to the long-term health of an area.
The presence of only mature plants (Figure 2-24) indicates an
eventual change in the plant community since, as these plants
die, they will not be replaced. In contrast, the woody community
in Figure 2-25 exhibits a mix of age classes as well as species.
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Figure
2-24
Hot season use of this pasture encourages cattle to
spend time under the shade of this vegetation. There
are only mature trees present.
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Figure
2-25
Hot season use of this pasture encourages cattle to
spend time under the shade of this vegetation. There
are only mature trees present.
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The
presence of only very young trees or shrubs may suggest something
is preventing these young plants from growing to maturity. They
may also be new shoots resprouting from old crowns, a common
condition when beavers are present. On the other hand, the presence
of only young plants might indicate a change in management and
the beginning of a healthy, new stand of trees or shrubs. In
this situation, only continual monitoring of the reach will
provide insight into which condition is occurring. |
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