Invasive exotic plant monitoring in Colorado National Monument: 2013 field season

Perkins, Dustin

Invasive exotic plant (IEP) species are a significant threat to natural ecosystem integrity and biodiversity, and controlling them is a high priority for the National Park Service. The Northern Colorado Plateau Network (NCPN) selected the early detection of IEPs as one of 10 monitoring protocols to be implemented as part of its long-term monitoring program. This report represents work completed at Colorado National Monument during 2013. During the monitoring conducted between July 31 and August 16, 2013, a total of 14 IEP species were detected in the combined monitoring routes and transects at the monument. Of these, 11 were priority species that accounted for 335 separate infestations. IEPs were most prevalent along riparian areas. Yellow sweetclover (Melilotus officinale), woolly mullein (Verbascum thapsus), field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), and Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) were the most widespread species found along monitoring routes. Cheatgrass (Anisantha tectorum) had the highest percent cover (1.4%) and highest frequency (48%) of all transects. Fewer priority IEPs were found along Rim Rock Drive from the intersection with East Glade Park Road to the Ute Canyon Overlook than along East Glade Park Road and Rim Rock Drive from the intersection with East Glade Park Road to the East Entrance, where there is a higher rate of transportation of livestock and livestock food (hay). Invasive species were found in reduced numbers than in previous years, presumably due to park eradication and control efforts. Many IEPs were present in small, localized invasions that have a promising chance of successful control and eradication. Network staff will return to re-sample all monitoring routes in 2015.

Invasive exotic plant monitoring in Colorado National Monument: 2013 field season

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