Non-Native Invasive Plant Survey and Recommendations 2003-2005: Wupatki National Monument

Brehl, Mark; Parker, Cindy; Whitefield, Paul

The natural landscapes of our national parks are threatened by the encroachment and establishment of non-native plant species. These are species which evolved in different ecosystems, often originating on other continents, but are typically pre-adapted to the climate of the area into which they are introduced. Within National Park Service (NPS) areas in the southwestern United States, invasive plants are typically introduced and disperse along roads, trails, and developed areas. The construction of visitor use facilities may inadvertently introduce certain species or foster their spread. Although intensive land uses typically do not occur within national park areas, they often occur on adjacent lands, along with invasive plants that may spread onto NPS lands if not managed. Problem species may expand within parks in pulses after fires, flash floods, or years with wet/dry weather extremes. If highly invasive plants are not eradicated or controlled, the ecological balance of native plant communities with soil, water, and wildlife, along with their resilience after perturbation/disturbance can be irreversibly altered. Unless problem species are detected and management actions are initiated early, the radication of the most invasive species and subsequent restoration to naturally functioning plant communities typically requires sustained efforts over large areas and long periods of time. This report discusses the results of a non-native invasive plant survey of Wupatki National Monument as well as makes management recomendations.