Natural resource condition assessment for Devils Postpile National Monument

Kuhn, Bill; Whitaker, Terressa

This Natural Resource Condition Assessment for Devils Postpile National Monument (DEPO) seeks to summarize the current conditions of a selected set of natural resources within the boundaries of the monument using information available up through 2009 or 2010. DEPO is a relatively small NPS unit located high on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada near the range crest in a subalpine valley with significant volcanic, hydrologic, and geomorphic history. As one of the four units of the Sierra Nevada network (SIEN), it protects a variety of physical and biological resources that have both local and regional value. A modified subset of Sierra Nevada Network Inventory and Monitoring program Vital Signs was used as the initial structure to determine a set of resources for which an assessment of current conditions would be made. Using DEPO staff input, available spatial and non-spatial datasets, published and unpublished research, and expert opinion, each selected resource indicator is evaluated for its current condition, and potential trends in condition. In addition, primary identified exiting stressors or potential threats that either are or are likely to impact the resource are identified and discussed. Overall, much is unknown about the status of natural resources within DEPO, making it difficult to assess current conditions. However, in most cases there were enough data and information, even if limited qualitative information and research from outside the unit, to make a determination as to likely condition. Compared to/with other national parks and protected lands close to larger urban areas, the resources of DEPO are in good condition. However, due to many significant extant systemic and local stressors, most resources are impacted to some degree, and information suggests that many resources are in a poorer condition than first meets the eye. In many cases, recent actions have already improved resource condition, though information currently is insufficient to determine the absolute effect of those actions on resource condition.This report provides a literature review and condition summary for a subset of important natural resources and associated indicators at Devils Postpile National Monument. A modified subset of Sierra Nevada Network Inventory and Monitoring program Vital Signs provided the initial structure to determine the resources to include in the evaluation. In addition to summarizing conditions, some existing stressors or potential threats that either are or are likely to impact the resource were identified and discussed.

Natural resource condition assessment for Devils Postpile National Monument

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