Natural resource condition assessment: City of Rocks National Reserve - Research Natural Area

Bell, Jack; Barton, Drake

The assessment report and accompanying geodatabase is designed to give the managers and planners of the City of Rocks National Reserve (CIRO) a better understanding of the natural resources within the Research Natural Area (RNA). Assessment of the natural resources was accomplished by conducting literature reviews, evaluating existing data, and collection of new data. A field survey of the RNA was conducted during the week of July 20 through July 24, 2009. The survey consisted of compilation of a plant species list, search for rare and endangered plants, and a list of all mammals, birds, and reptiles recorded based on signs or visual sightings. Human impacts were noted, particularly evidence of grazing or mining. Given the significance of the singleleaf pinyon (Pinus monophylla) to the RNA, several large trees were sized and aged. Twenty-seven assessment points were recorded with global positioning systems (GPS) and representative pictures taken of important features. A vegetation map developed from data collected in 2009 and in draft form was used to analyze the distribution of vegetation within the RNA and a proposed extension area. The CIRO RNA can meet the objectives for RNAs defined in Natural Resource Management Guidelines NPS-77 with proper management. The RNA is an excellent reference site for monitoring the effects of management actions in similar sites outside the RNA. It also could provide baseline data for long-term monitoring of natural changes, such as wildfire and climate change, in the singleleaf pinyon community. The RNA preserves a healthy old-growth stand of singleleaf pinyon at the northern-most distribution of the species and associated community. The RNA will preserve the genetic diversity of the singleleaf pinyon community. The CIRO RNA is one of four RNA’s in Idaho with a singleleaf pinyon plant association. A 170 acre expansion of the RNA along the western boundary is proposed based on the similarity of vegetation and rock outcrops found in the RNA. An expansion of the RNA into this area would require structures to restrict cattle grazing, modifications to grazing management plans, and restrictions on recreation use. Further research would be required to determine if the expansion area meets all the requirements for a RNA, including possible changes to plant communities due to cattle grazing. Also proposed is an adjustment to the current RNA boundary that would incorporate the natural boundaries of the Graham Creek and Circle Creek allotments. The adjustment would create a 350 acre RNA and would have similar vegetation composition as the current RNA. Expansion or adjustment of the RNA could conflict with other management goals and objectives for CIRO not considered in this report.

Natural resource condition assessment: City of Rocks National Reserve - Research Natural Area

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