bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Early Indicators of Global Climate Change
Authors: Debinski Diane
Published: July 2020

One of the more significant voids remaining in our scientific understanding of global climate change is the relationship between climate change and the resulting changes expected in ecological communities. Because a large proportion of the North American landscape has been modified by human activities, it is difficult to assess whether ecological changes are being caused by human activities or climate change. Thus, we must look to landscapes where the modification has been less severe. One of the most pristine landscapes in North America where scientists can study natural processes is that of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Within this system some of the more sensitive habitats are the montane meadows. These habitats exist along a continuum from very dry (xeric) sagebrush meadows, to flowering (mesic) meadows, to wet (hydric) sedge meadows. Because of the relatively short growing season, species in these meadows can exhibit quick changes in distribution and abundance relative to climatic changes. My research uses satellite images and field surveys to evaluate how meadow habitats and their associated species respond to interannual changes in precipitation and soil moisture. I am examining the plant and butterfly communities to measure the response. Over 100 species of butterflies occur in this area and many are closely associated with specific types of meadows. This research is significant because it will provide an early warning system for assessing the effects of climate change. Documenting changes in montane meadows will assist in understanding how climate change may affect more highly managed areas of the globe.
Monitoring of Contaminants in Nestling Bald Eagles of Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Montopoli George , Harlow Hank , Byerly Andy , Wolff Susan , Patla Susan
Published: July 2020

We report on contaminants identified in nestling bald eagles of Grant Teton National Park (GTNP) and the Snake River Unit (SRU), Wyoming, during summers of 2006 and 2007. We focus primarily on mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and selenium (Se) because each was detected in all nestlings during both summers at moderate levels. Independent t-tests were performed both on the raw data and logÂ­transformed data (using the natural logarithm) as a comparative analysis to investigate if contaminant loads had significantly increased from summer 2006 to summer 2007. Also, as a comparative analysis and alternative procedure, nest site was treated as the experimental unit and a repeated-measures analysis (longitudinal study) was conducted on the raw data to investigate if contaminant loads had significantly increased from summer 2006 to summer 2007. Results of the analysis indicate that levels of Se essentially remained unchanged from summer 2006 to summer 2007 (p=0.466, log-transformed data). Levels of Pb in nestlings increased from summer 2006 to summer 2007 (p=0.000, log-transformed data). There was no difference in levels of Hg in nestlings from summer 2006 to summer 2007 (p=0.058, log-transformed data). The molar ratio (2.54ppm Se: 1 ppm Hg) of Se to Hg did not change from 2006 to 2007 (p=0.337, raw data), although a 45% decrease in molar ratio was observed. Analyses of contaminants (using geometric means) in the blood of nestlings (from summer 2006 to 2007) showed a 64% increase in Hg, a five-fold increase in Pb ( 481% ), and a 21% increase in Se. Potential localized sources of Pb contamination should be identified and removed from the proximity of any nest site(s) and the study area in general. Advancing global climate change and associated desiccation and emolation of temperate and boreal forests, exacerbated by extensive clear-cutting may increase poisoning of aquatic ecosystems with high levels of contaminants, especially Hg, in the future. A monitoring program may be indicated to identify potential long-term changes within the GYE. (p=O.OOO, log-transformed data). There was no difference in levels of Hg in nestlings from summer 2006 to summer 2007 (p=0.058, logÂ­ transformed data). The molar ratio (2.54ppm Se: 1ppm Hg) of Se to Hg did not change from 2006 to 2007 (p=0.337, raw data), although a 45% decrease in molar ratio was observed. Analyses of contaminants (using geometric means) in the blood of nestlings (from summer 2006 to 2007) showed a 64% increase in Hg, a five-fold increase in Pb (481%), and a 21 % increase in Se. Potential localized sources of Pb contamination should be identified and removed from the proximity of any nest site(s) and the study area in general.
Evaluating the Movement Patterns of Snake River Finespotted Cutthroat Trout in the Snake River Below Jackson Lake Dam, Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Gresswell Bob , Homel Kris
Published: July 2020

The Snake River finespotted cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii behnkei has been formally recognized as a subspecies of cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii, but it is more generally perceived as a morphologically divergent ecotype of the more broadly distributed Yellowstone cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri. This large-river cutthroat trout has persisted in the Snake River downstream of Jackson Lake Dam through a century of flow regulation. Although there is a popular sport fishery focused on this native trout, spawning and distribution patterns throughout its range are poorly understood. Consequently, it is difficult to predict how future disturbances (e.g., climate change or an increase in the prevalence of nonnative species) may affect behavior or persistence. In 2008, radio telemetry techniques were used to identify spawning patterns of cutthroat trout. From August-October, 2007, 49 radio telemetry tags were implanted into cutthroat trout in the Snake River, Grand Teton National Park and fish movements were tracked during the spawning season. Significant temporal and spatial variability in spawning behavior was observed (n = 22 fish with distinct spawning migrations). The earliest spawning migration began at the end of April, and the last spawning migration was initiated in mid-July. Spawning was observed in the mainstem and side channels of the Snake River, several tributaries, and three major spring creek complexes. Although the majority of this spawning activity occurred within 40 km of the respective original tagging location, three fish migrated to spawning areas 75-100 river kilometers away. Ultimately, developing a comprehensive understanding of the behavioral variability of Snake River finespotted cutthroat trout and the habitat connectivity required to complete the life cycle will provide new insights into the management of this portion of the Snake River.
Impact of Irrigation Cessation on Wetland Communities within the Elk Ranch in Grand Teton National Park, Moose, Wyoming
Authors: Marlow C. , Summerfield S.
Published: July 2020

This study began in 2006 to provide an ecologically based decision platform for Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) managers to use when evaluating the pros and cons of continuing the historic Elk Ranch irrigation operation. Ideally, this platform would also provide criteria for identifying landscapes within the irrigated hay meadows that would experience the most rapid change in vegetation community structure if the decision were to terminate irrigation operations. These criteria would aid in the identification of areas where species composition could quickly change as growing conditions shifted to the drier conditions common in surrounding undeveloped range and forestland. Once identified these sites could be closely managed to prevent invasive non-native species from disrupting site re-occupation by native upland species. To accomplish this goal the study was designed to 1) identify soil and hydrologic features associated with wetland and upland plant communities in the hayfield complex and 2) monitor shallow groundwater patterns associated with these wetland complexes. Predictive responses generated from the soil/vegetation inventories would then be compared with the recorded groundwater patterns to validate the measures as indicators of vegetation community change. If successful, these criteria will also be useful for identifying the potential for wetland mitigation and rehabilitation at other localities within Grand Teton National Park.
Recruitment, Diet Composition, and Time-Budgets of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis Canadensis) in the Teton Range.
Authors: Courtemanch Alyson , Kauffman Matthew
Published: July 2020

Many ungulate populations have lost access to their traditional migration routes and seasonal ranges, resulting in rapid and severe population declines. Some ungulate populations have been able to adapt to living year-round on one seasonal range and persist despite loss of migration. However, our understanding of how ungulates adapt their habitat selection and foraging strategies in order to compensate for migration loss is poor This study investigates how a formerly migratory, now sedentary and isolated bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) population persists year-round on high-elevation summer range in the Teton Range in northwest Wyoming. We captured and GPS-collared 20 bighorn ewes throughout the Teton Range in February 2008 and an additional 8 ewes in March 2009. In 2008, ninety percent of captured ewes were pregnant, and 100% were pregnant in 2009. During summer 2008, we located and observed GPS-collared ewes, determined lamb survival, collected fecal samples for diet composition analysis, and observed time-budgets. We found that 50% oflambs survived until at least midÂ­ summer. Diet composition analysis is pending and we are waiting to combine time-budget observations with additional data that will be collected during summers 2009 and 2010. We observed differences in movement patterns between GPS-collared ewes during summer 2008, ranging from 5 km to a maximum of 15 km. At this time, six GPS-collared ewes have died (four in avalanches, one from predation, and one unknown). This study is ongoing and will be completed in 2010. Results will directly contribute to management of this non-migratory and isolated bighorn sheep population, and will shed light on how a formerly migratory ungulate population has been able to persist on highÂ­elevation range year-round.
Lovesick: Immunological Costs of Mating of Male Sagebrush Crickets
Authors: Lehman Joseph , Weddle Carie , St. John Jeannine , Kerr Angela , Gershman Susan , Sakaluk Scott
Published: July 2020

A growing body of evidence suggests that resources invested in sexual signals and other reproductive traits often come at the expense of the ability to mount an immune response. Male sagebrush crickets, Cyphoderris strepitans, offer an unusual nuptial food gift to females during mating: females chew on the tips of males' fleshy hind wings and ingest hemolymph seeping from the wounds they inflict. Previous research has shown that once a male has mated, his probability of obtaining an additional copulation is reduced relative to that of a virgin male seeking his first mating. One hypothesis to account for this effect is that wing wounding triggers an energetically costly immune response, such that nonÂ­ virgin males are unable to sustain the costly acoustical signaling needed to attract additional females. To test this hypothesis, we injected virgin males with lipopolysaccharides (LPS), a non-living component of bacterial cell walls that leads to upregulation of the insect immune system. Males were released in the field and recaptured over the course of the breeding season to monitor their mating success. Over two breeding seasons, LPS-injected males took significantly longer to secure matings than sham-injected virgin males. An encapsulation rate assay showed no difference in the encapsulation response of males of different mating status, but virgin males had significantly higher levels of phenoloxidase than non-virgin males. These results suggest that males trade off investment in reproduction and investment in immunity.
Reciprocal Interactions Between Bark Beetles and Wildfire in Subalpine Forests of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Simard Martin , Griffin Jake , Powell Erin , Jin Suming , Raffa Ken , Townsend Philip , Turner Monica , Romme William , Tinker Daniel
Published: July 2020

Wildfire and bark beetle epidemics are two ecologically important natural disturbances in the Intermountain West, yet we know very little about how these two phenomena interact. It is widely believed that beetle-killed trees increase the risk of severe fires; and trees that are weakened, but not killed by fire, are thought to be more susceptible to beetle invasion. However, few studies have rigorously tested these hypotheses. The GYE is currently experiencing an outbreak of unprecedented intensity and complexity, involving several species of bark beetles, including the mountain pine beetle. The outbreak is affecting multiple species of coniferous trees in and near recently burned areas, providing a timely opportunity to investigate these interactions at multiple scales.
Influence of Habitat Conditions and Predation Risk on Productivity and Behavior of a Partially-Migratory Elk Herd in the Absaroka Range
Authors: Middleton Arthur , Kauffman Matthew
Published: July 2020

Ungulate migration is an important but increasingly rare ecological process. Although Yellowstone National Park (YNP) retains a rich assemblage of migratory ungulates, changing ecological conditions across its boundaries are posing new and complex challenges to our understanding of migratory populations. This study is focused on the Clarks Fork elk herd, a partially-migratory population whose migratory subpopulation spends it summers in high-elevation alpine and subalpine habitats inside YNPâs northeastern boundary. In the past decade, productivity of migratory elk has declined sharply while the non-migratory herd segment has remained stable or grown on private lands east of YNP. Early findings have revealed that pregnancy of migratory elk is exceptionally low, suggesting that YNP migrants are nutritionally stressed. Although fat gain in temperate ungulates is conventionally thought to be limited by summer forage quality, and the park has lately experienced prolonged drought, some have suggested that physiologically-costly, wolf-induced antipredator behaviors are reducing elk condition and reproductive performance. We are investigating the relative influence of habitat conditions versus antipredator behavior on the body-fat levels and reproduction of Clarks Fork elk. Our results will help YNP, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and other state and federal management agencies understand and manage elk populations and their migrations in the post-wolf reintroduction era.
Evaluation of Grand Teton National Park's "Be Bear Aware" Message to Visitors
Authors: Nelson Nanette , Taylor Patricia , Rieser Amy
Published: July 2020

Grand Teton National Park (GRTE) receives nearly 4 million visitors a year. GRTE also supports thriving populations of black (Ursus americanus) and grizzly (Ursus arctos) bears (GRTE, 2007). The extent to which humans recreate in prime bear habitat influences the probability of bear-human encounters and the potential for conflict. In an effort to reduce bear-human encounters, GRTE managers initiated the âBe Bear Awareâ(BBA) program in 2007. One objective of this program is to reduce bear-human encounters through proper food storage by visitors to the campground and picnic areas. To evaluate the efficacy of this program we proposed to interview a sample of park visitors to assess their knowledge and beliefs regarding proper food storage and recreating safely in bear country, gauge their recall of particular âBe Bear Awareâ signage, and ascertain their perceived risk of a bear encounter. This information along with trip characteristics and visitor demographics will help park managers identify if âBe Bear Awareâ messages are effective and for whom. The project was divided into two phases. The first phase, reported on here, consisted of developing a survey instrument, preparing a sampling plan, and submitting the necessary paperwork to receive approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to conduct the research. Phase 2 of the project, to be initiated in the summer of 2010, consists of administering the survey, analyzing the data, and completing a final report summarizing our research findings.
Measuring the Morphology and Dynamics of the Snake River by Remote Sensing
Authors: Legleiter Carl
Published: July 2020

The Snake River is a central component of Grand Teton National Park, and this dynamic fluvial system plays a key role in shaping the landscape and creating diverse aquatic and terrestrial habitat. The riverâs complexity and propensity for change make effective characterization of this resource difficult, however, and conventional, ground-based methods are simply inadequate. Remote sensing provides an appealing alternative approach that could facilitate resource management while providing novel insight on the factors controlling channel form and behavior. In this study, we evaluate the potential to measure the morphology and dynamics of a large, complex river system such as the Snake using optical image data. Initially, we made use of existing, publicly available images and basic digital aerial photography acquired in August 2010. Analysis to date has focused on estimating flow depths from these data, and preliminary results indicate that remote bathymetric mapping is feasible but not highly accurate, with important constraints related to the limited radiometric resolution of these data sets. Additional, more sophisticated hyperspectral data are scheduled for collection in 2011, along with further field work.
Sexual Selection of Male Song in Free-Living Sagebrush Crickets, Cyphoderris Strepitans
Authors: Ower Geoff , Steiger Sandra , Caron Kyle , Sakaluk Scott
Published: July 2020

Measures of lifetime mating success in the sagebrush cricket, Cyphoderris strepitans, have revealed that most males succeed in obtaining only 1 mating, while many males fail to attract a female at all and a small minority mate 2 to 4 times. Relative to their abundance in the population, virgin males have a greater likelihood of obtaining a mating than non-virgin males have of securing additional matings, a phenomenon known as the virgin male mating advantage. Previous studies of sagebrush crickets have focused primarily on determining the proximate mechanisms responsible for the virgin male mating advantage, but little work has been done to identify the factors that influence male attractiveness in the first place. Because song plays a central role in mate attraction, itâs likely that variability in song parameters among males could account for the observed differences in mating success. Song is an energetically costly signal to produce and could serve as an honest indicator of male quality. Consequently, males that are able to invest greater amounts of energy into singing should be more attractive to females. In a previous field season, we recorded and analyzed the songs of virgin and non-virgin males and indeed found some evidence that females prefer males which invest greater energy into calling. In the present study, we synthesized artificial sagebrush cricket songs and directly measured female song preference with an arena playback experiment. Females were shown to consistently prefer song characteristics that would require greater energy expenditure by males. Males that sing with long pulse duration, long train duration, and at an intermediate dominant frequency were found to be highly attractive to females.
Active Dispersal of an Aquatic Invader Determined by Resource and Flow Conditions
Authors: Sepulveda Adam , Marczak Laurie
Published: July 2020

New Zealand mudsnails (NZMS) have spread rapidly across the western United States, but little is known about mechanisms that drive their spread within invaded streams. We used a field experiment to test if upstream movement is a potential vector of NZMS spread and how this movement is modified by flow velocity and resource availability. We found movement direction and rates were related to flow velocity, while resource availability influenced the number of individuals that moved. In slow-flow treatments, individuals moved upstream at faster rates (~ 3 m/hr) than previously recorded for this species. In fast-flow treatments, most individuals were dislodged downstream and upstream movement rates were less than 2 m/hr. In low-resource treatments, individuals were more likely to move away from their initial starting locations. We suggest that upstream movement may be important in establishing new populations within local invasions and that increases in flow velocity may be an effective means to slow the upstream spread of NZMS. The surprisingly fast movements that we recorded predict greater distribution of NZMS within invaded streams than has actually occurred, which suggests that factors in addition to NZMS movement rate may limit population spread.
Yellowstone Raptor Initiative
Authors: Smith Douglas , Duffy Katy , Pagel Joel
Published: July 2020

During 2010, the Yellowstone Raptor Initiative (YRI) used grant funds from the NPS Research Station-Wyoming to create a program with a raptor-centric focus. This program, in its infancy, concentrated on involving park visitors and staff in obtaining and collating raptor sightings in Yellowstone National Park. The funds also helped locate what may be a significant raptor migration corridor through Hayden Valley, as noted via the documentation of concentrations of Swainsonâs Hawks on their flight through Yellowstone National Park to Argentina. Park staff and visitors attended raptor ecology and identification programs presented during the summer and fall, while a pilot ranger-led hawkwatch in Hayden Valley attracted 160 attendees, including area residents, park staff and park visitors. The Yellowstone Raptor Initiative also conducted additional outreach by presenting technical papers at the Raptor Research Foundation annual meeting regarding the YRI, and scientific work which had been accomplished by the Initiativeâs participating agencies and biologists during the 2010 funding year.
Measuring the Morphology and Dynamics of the Snake River by Remote Sensing
Authors: Legleiter Carl , Overstreet Brandon
Published: July 2020

The Snake River is a central component of Grand Teton National Park, and this dynamic fluvial system plays a key role in shaping the landscape and maintaining a diversity of habitat conditions. The riverâs inherent variability and propensity for change complicate effective characterization of this important resource, however; conventional, ground-based methods are not adequate for this purpose. Remote sensing provides an appealing alternative that could facilitate resource management while providing novel insight on factors influencing channel form and behavior. This study evaluates the potential for using optical data to measure the morphology and dynamics of a large, complex river such as the Snake. More specifically, we assessed the feasibility of estimating flow depth from multispectral satellite images acquired in September 2011. Our initial results indicate that reliable maps of river bathymetry can be produced from such data. We are also examining channel changes associated with a prolonged period of high flow during the 2011 snowmelt runoff season by comparing these satellite images with digital aerial photography from August 2010. An extensive field data set on flow velocities provides some hydraulic context for the observed morphodynamics. More sophisticated hyperspectral and LiDAR data sets are scheduled for collection in 2012, along with additional field measurements.
Preservation Treatment Guide for AMK Ranch (UW-NPS Research Center)
Authors: Humstone Mary
Published: July 2020

During summer 2011, the University of Wyoming American Studies Program offered âField Studies in Historic Preservation: Preparing a Preservation Treatment Guide for the Historic AMK Ranch.â This 3-credit, upper-level undergraduate course introduced students to the process of documenting and assessing the condition of historic buildings and developing treatment protocols. The majority of the course was devoted to inspecting buildings, interviewing property managers, researching solutions to common problems and writing a âPreservation Treatment Guideâ for use by National Park Service and University of Wyoming personnel. Students also studied log building maintenance and repair at other historic sites within Grand Teton National Park and conducted experiments and demonstrations at the AMK Ranch. Through this field course, students were given the opportunity to assist in fulfilling a contract with the National Park Service and to learn about how the park manages its historic and cultural resources. The course was taught by University of Wyoming Research Scientist Mary Humstone, with assistance from building conservation specialist Harrison Goodall of Langley, Washington, and Grand Teton National Park Cultural Resource Specialist Katherine Longfield
Geology of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
Authors: Kilty Trina , Morell Trent
Published: July 2020

This was a 3 credit hour field course in geology offered through Laramie County Community College. The title of the course is Geology of Yellowstone National Park (GEOL 1035-60).
Summary of an Ongoing Population Study of Parnassius ClodiusButterflies
Authors: Sherwood Jill , Debinski Diane
Published: July 2020

Global and regional climate patterns suggest that future conditions in the western United States will be warmer and drier. Changing climatic conditions are predicted to impact ecosystems on many levels including at a population level. Decreases in population distribution and sizes have the potential to disrupt community and species diversity. Insects are particularly useful organisms to study because of their shorter life spans and sensitivity to changes environmental conditions. We expanded on previous population studies of a butterfly species, Parnassius clodius, located in Grand Teton National Park using mark-recapture techniques. We collected data to assess population size and sex ration on one particular population located in the park. Using mark-recapture techniques, we were able to collect data to assess population numbers, total number of males and females, sex rations and number of mated versus unmated females throughout the flight season. Here we compiled information about this population to provide benchmark information for this species and its population dynamics. The combined population data will be further used to study how changing climatic conditions have affected this population throughout the study years. The results will be valuable for understanding the population and also for understanding potential climate-related impacts on butterfly populations in other locations.
Aspen, Elk and Wolves in Yellowstone: Are Aspen Recovering Since the Return of Wolves
Authors: Painter Luke , Ripple William , Beschta Robert , Larsen Eric
Published: July 2020

We assessed aspen stand conditions in 2012 in 87 stands randomly located across the northern winter ungulate range of Yellowstone National Park (YNP), and compared these data to baseline conditions measured in 1997-98 shortly after wolves were reintroduced. In 1997-98, browsing rates (the percentage of leaders browsed annually) in aspen stands were consistently very high, averaging 88% of stems browsed; only 1% of young aspen in sample plots were taller than 100 cm and none were taller than 200 cm, the height at which aspen begin to escape from browsing by elk. Using the same methods in 2012, 17 years after wolf reintroduction, browsing rates were much lower averaging 44%, 34% of sampled young aspen were taller than 100 cm, and 5% taller than 200 cm. Mean heights of young aspen in 2012 were inversely correlated with browsing intensity (R2=0.64, p=
Field Research and Conservation
Authors: Collis Chuck , Adams Jennifer
Published: July 2020

Field Research & Conservation emphasizes long-term field research experiences, examines ecosystem processes, and explores the evolution of American perspectives about nature. This year we also served as research assistants to and participated in a research symposium with Dr. Scott Sakaluk and Dr. Chad Johnson.
University of Wyoming Outdoor Studio Art Class
Authors: Kikut Patrick
Published: July 2020

Since its inception as a Summer Innovative Course in 2000, the Department of Art Summer Outdoor Studio class has been exceptionally grateful for the opportunity to stay and work at the AMK Research Station as part of the three week summer intensive. For art students, the dramatic setting and accommodation are inspiring and it is a highlight of the experience. From the AMK Ranch, students have full access to the Teton NP, Yellowstone NP as well as the National Wildlife Museum in Jackson. Art students also appreciate the interaction with students from different disciplines in the sciences and often those conversations have direct impact on the creative work studentâs produce during their stay. The AMK staff and in particular Professor Hank Harlow have offered us incredible hospitality and generosity. Professor Harlowâs knowledge of the geology, biology, and history of Teton National Park is invaluable to this course. Also, his enthusiasm for art and scientific research is infectious. Our stay at the AMK always culminates in an exhibition of student and faculty creative work, hosted by Hank Harlow, UW NPS Research Station Director.
International Cooperative Team Studying Iconic National Parks
Authors: Taylor Patricia
Published: July 2020

In August 2012, six ecologists visiting the University of Wyoming from three continents joined with two University of Wyoming faculty researchers to continue a five-year project comparing changes in some of the worldâs most iconic national parks. Of particular interest to this group is the response of park managers to the potential effects of climate change on tourism.
Iowa State University Field Trip Report: Ecology and Evolution in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Debinski Diane , Klaver Robert , Blanchong Julie , Fairbanks Sue
Published: July 2020

Iowa State Universityâs graduate program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) requires that all graduate students participate in one field trip class during their graduate career. In this 2 credit class students learn about the ecology of the ecosystem that they will be visiting via seminars and lectures during the semester. The classroom teaching culminates in a field trip experience. During the field trip the students have an opportunity to meet local scientists, researchers, land managers and representatives from non-government agencies. They then write up a summary of their work and are graded on these activities.
Shallow Seismic Investigation of the Teton Fault
Authors: Thackray Glenn , Zellman Mark , Altekruse Jason , Protti Bruno , Colandera Harrison
Published: July 2020

Preliminary results from seismic data collected at two sites on the Teton fault reveal shallow sub-surface fault structure and a basis for evaluating the post-glacial faulting record in greater detail. These new data include high-resolution shallow 2D seismic refraction and Interferometric Multi-Channel Analysis of Surface Waves (IMASW) (OâConnell and Turner 2010) depth-averaged shear wave velocity (Vs). The Teton fault, a down-to-the east normal fault, is expressed as a distinct topographic escarpment along the base of the eastern front of the Teton Range in Wyoming. The average fault scarp height cut into deglacial surfaces in several similar valleys and an assumed 14,000 yr BP deglaciation indicates an average postglacial offset rate of 0.82 m/ka (Thackray and Staley, in review). Because the fault is located almost entirely within Grand Teton National Park (GTNP), and in terrain that is remote and difficult to access, very few subsurface studies have been used to evaluate the fault. As a result, many uncertainties exist in the present characterization of along-strike slip rate, down-dip geometry, and rupture history, among other parameters. Additionally, questions remain about the fault dip at depth. Shallow seismic data were collected at two locations on the Teton fault scarp to (1) use a non-destructive, highly portable and cost-effective data collection system to image and characterize the Teton fault, (2) use the data to estimate vertical offsets of faulted bedrock and sediment, and (3) estimate fault dip in the shallow subsurface. Vs data were also collected at three GTNP facility structures to provide measured 30 m depth-averaged Vs (Vs30) for each site. Seismic data were collected using highly portable equipment packed into each site on foot. The system utilizes a sensor line 92 m long that includes 24 geophones (channels) at 4 m intervals. At both the Taggart Lake and String Lake sites, P-wave refraction data were collected spanning the fault scarp and perpendicular to local fault strike, as well as IMASW Vs seismic lines positioned on the hanging wall to provide Vs vs. Depth profiles crossing and perpendicular to the refraction survey lines. The Taggart Lake and String Lake 2D P-wave refraction profile and IMASW Vs plots reveal buried velocity structure that is vertically offset by the Teton fault. At Taggart Lake, we interpret the velocity horizon to be the top of dense glacial sediment (possibly compacted till), which is overlain by younger, slower, sediments. This surface is offset ~13 m (down-to-the-east) across the Teton fault. The vertical offset is in agreement with the measured height of the corresponding topographic scarp (~12 - 15 m). Geomorphic analysis of EarthScope (2008) LiDAR reveals small terraces, slope inflections and an abandoned channel on the footwall side of the scarp. At String Lake, the shallow buried velocity structure is inferred as unconsolidated alluvium (till, colluvium, alluvium); this relatively low velocity zone (
Water Flow and Beaver Habitat in Grand Teton National Park: Adaptation to Climate Change
Authors: Gribb William , Harlow Henry
Published: July 2020

Beavers are a keystone species in Grand Teton National Park and are critical to the aquatic and terrestrial landscape. Modifications to their habitat by climate change impact multiple species. This study is designed to examine the current distribution and habitat of beavers in Grand Teton National Park and analyze the alterations to this distribution and habitat based on climate change. Field and aerial surveys were completed to determine the distribution of beaver colonies in Grand Teton National Park. Beaver habitat was constructed by integrating field surveys of vegetation, soils and hydrologic characteristics with satellite imagery classification. A model of climate change was utilized in an effort to distinguish potentially different rates of temperature and precipitation change into the 21st century. The results of the climate model were then integrated into a watershed assessment model to determine stream flow in the Snake River basin. The decreasing flow rates are critical to beaver habitat for cottonwoods and willow species and beaver settlement and movement and will limit their movement. In addition, the Snake River below Jackson Lake Dam is regulated for irrigation into Idaho and the decreasing flows on the Snake River below the Jackson Lake Dam will also impact water availability for beaver habitats. Decreases in precipitation availability will increase irrigation demand causing changes in the Snake River flow patterns. Management conflicts exist between preserving and maintaining beaver habitat in the national park and meeting the irrigation
The Teton Archaeological Project: Report From the 2014 Inaugural Field Season
Authors: Stirn Matthew , Sgouros Rebecca
Published: July 2020

In August and September, 2014, two eight- day archaeological surveys were conducted by the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum in Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Grand Teton National Park. This project, the inaugural season of the Teton Archaeological Project, investigated high-altitude passes, basins, and ice patches for prehistoric archaeological sites. In total, during the 2014 season 28 archaeological sites were recorded ranging from Paleoindian (9,000 BP) to Late-Prehistoric (1,000 BP) in age. The results of this field season investigation provide an enlightened understanding of prehistoric life in the high Tetons and will offer a solid foundation for future archaeological surveys and research questions.
Water Resources Internship Report: Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Rouch Mathew
Published: July 2020

The objective of this project was to consolidate all previous work on water rights in the park into a single geodatabase that could be updated and built on in the future. Priority areas specifically for this project were Cottonwood and Spread Creeks, with the goal being to identify all water rights and associated ditches being diverted off of these creeks.
Inquiry-Based Geology Field Course for In-Service Educators
Authors: Harwood David , Thompson Kyle
Published: July 2020

Eight in-service teachers and two instructors engaged in an inquiry-based geology field course from June 14 to 29, 2014 through Wyoming, South Dakota, and Nebraska. This team of learners spent three days in mid-June working in the Grand Teton National Park area. The UW-NPS facilities provide an excellent opportunity for participants to discover the natural history of the Teton Range, as well as close-out a few projects while sitting in a real chair, at a real table, a welcome change from our usual campground setting.
Introduced American Bullfrog Distribution and Diets in Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Flynn Lauren , Kreofsky Tess , Sepulveda Adam
Published: July 2020

Introduced American Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) have been present in Grand Teton National Park since approximately the 1950s, but little is known about their distribution and potential impacts. In this study, we surveyed the current bullfrog distribution and spatial overlap with sympatric native amphibians in the park, and characterized post-metamorphic bullfrog diets from July â September 2015. Despite surveys in multiple large rivers and floodplain habitats, we only documented bullfrogs in a geothermal pond and 5 km of stream channel immediately downstream of this pond. In these waters, bullfrogs overlapped with native amphibians at the downstream end of their distribution, and we did not document native amphibians in bullfrog stomach contents. Larger bullfrogs (SVL â¥ 96 mm) primarily consumed native rodents (especially meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus), while smaller bullfrogs frequently consumed native invertebrates and less frequently consumed non-native invertebrates and fish. Taken together, these data indicate that the distribution and implications of the bullfrog invasion in Grand Teton National Park are currently localized to a small area, so these bullfrogs should therefore be vulnerable to eradication.
Small Mammal Movements and Fire History: Testing the Long-Term Effects of the 1988 Huckleberry Mountain Fire
Authors: Lanier Hayley , Carver Lorraine , Roehrs Zachary , Roehrs Meredith , Seville R.
Published: July 2020

Fires are an important ecological force shaping biological communities in western North America. Fires change landscapes in ways which influence the relative abundance and activities of the organisms occurring in those habitats. Preliminary results from previous work suggest the stage of fire succession may influence individual movements on the landscape. As part of a long-term study of the 1988 Yellowstone fires along the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, we set out to examine these patterns in more detail to (1) test whether the two dominant small mammal species were moving different distances based upon the stage of succession in a particular habitat, and (2) determine the role of habitat complexity, resource types, and species abundance in driving these patterns. Using movement distances from capture-recapture data and fluorescent powder tracking of individuals we compared movement distances and habitat usage between mid-succession and late-succession trapping grids for red-backed voles (Myodes gapperi) and deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). The results suggest deer mice, some of the first colonizers to burned habitat, are moving farther than red-backed voles, and move farther in burned habitats than in unburned habitats. Red-backed voles exhibit slightly, but not significantly, longer movements in burned habitats. Powder tracking results suggest habitat complexity, in particular the quantity of coarse woody debris, may partially explain the differences in movement patterns by burn history. These results are important for understanding the long-lasting impacts of fire history on population and community patterns.
River Otter Distribution and Food Habits in Grand Teton National Park as Part of an Ongoing Project in the GYE
Authors: Pearce Kelly , Serfass Tom
Published: July 2020

Grand Teton National Park is part of the known range of the North American river otter, however not much is known about this semi-aquatic mammal within the park. The results presented here are part of a larger project to investigate the potential of the river otter (Lontra canadensis) to serve as an aquatic flagship (species that engender public support and action) for the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. River otters, known for their charismatic behavior have the potential to serve as an aquatic flagship species to promote conservation of aquatic ecosystems. The primary objective of this portion of the study was to identify river otter latrines on portions of the Snake River, between Flagg Ranch and Jackson Lake, and between Jackson Lake Dam and Pacific Creek, collect river otter scats to determine diet of the river otter, and employ remote cameras to determine activity patterns of the river otters. Between 20 June and 1 July 2015, 26 river otter latrines were identified during shoreline surveys, 186 river otter scats were collected, and cameras were deployed at 6 latrines between 7 July and 24 August 2015. River otter scats have been cleaned and prepared for analysis, but have not all been processed to date. Camera traps recorded 222 images, of which 7% (n = 14) were of carnivores, 70% (n = 155) were of non-carnivore mammals, and 9% (n = 22) were of birds. River otters were detected at 1 of the 6 latrines, a total of 5 independent times during the study.
In Situ Performance Assessment and Evaluation of Hydrophobic and Ultraviolet Protective Treatments for Historic Log Structures
Authors: Magill Courtney , Matero Frank
Published: July 2020

Beginning in the summer of 2015, research was conducted on protective wood coatings and accelerated weathering testing methods for architectural log and timber. A rack for supplementary natural weathering testing of hydrophobic and ultraviolet protective surface treatments for logs was also erected as a subsequent phase at Grand Teton National Park. This laboratory and field research is part of an ongoing project to develop an appropriate treatment for historic log structures in the region that will preserve their original fabric while maintaining the intended historic appearance of the buildings, i.e., unpainted. The weathering rack will be in place for upwards of five years to verify the lab-based results from Phase I and to determine the long-term durability of the chosen treatments on already aged materials in situ. This report addresses the methods and materials for preparation of the weathering rack and samples as well as the methods being used to monitor their progress and initial results. Readings will be taken yearly to monitor the effects of weathering on each treatment.
Methods in Geoscience Field Instruction: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Authors: Harwood David , Thompson Kyle
Published: July 2020

Eight in-service teachers, one pre-service education student, three observers from other universities, and two instructors from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln engaged in an inquiry-based geology field course from June 13 to 28, 2015 through Wyoming, South Dakota, and Nebraska. This commnity of learners spent three days working in the Grand Teton National Park area. Geological features and history present in Grand Teton National Park are an important part of the course curriculum. Large-scale extensional features of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole, and the glacial geomorphology and related climate changes of this area are some of the unique features examined here.
A survey of bat communities in Grand Teton National Park in relation to anthropogenic structures and light
Authors: Cole Hunter J.
Published: July 2020

Bats (order Chiroptera) are increasingly recognized as critical in diverse ecosystems around the world. However, there have been relatively few studies of bats in Grand Teton National Park (GRTE), such that a great deal remains to be learned about bat communities in the region. We recorded bat echolocation calls with acoustic monitoring device and analyzed recordings with species identification software to characterize bat communities in GRTE. These data, along with data on human-made structures and lightscapes around the park will be used to analyze relationships between bat communities and anthropogenic infrastructure within the park.

 

Featured photo by Shawna Wolf, taken from the AMK Ranch photo collection.
Investigating movement and population genetic structure of Parnassius clodius butterflies in Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Debinski Diane M. , McCombs Audrey L.
Published: July 2020

Numerous species are responding to warming climate by shifting distributions northward and poleward. Butterflies have been instrumental in documenting such climate-induced range shifts. Parnassius clodius is a montane butterfly found throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in metapopulations of disconnected dry, gravelly sagebrush meadows. Dispersal among metapopulations will likely strongly determine whether the species can move in response to changing climate. We collected P. clodius in 41 study sites spread throughout the GYE for which we also have occupancy data. Future analysis of genotyping-by-sequencing data for these 209 samples will help describe population structure across the landscape and identify potential landscape features that are barriers to movement for this species.

 

Featured photo by U. S. Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Region on Flickr. https://flic.kr/p/U7HmLm
Flowering phenology and bumblebee activity in early summer in Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Sprayberry Jordanna D. H. , DeFino Rachel , Dillon Michael E.
Published: July 2020

From late May through late June we monitored flowering phenology of all plants in four transects in Grand Teton National Park. We identified and collected blooming data on 25 species. In addition, we assessed both bumblebee species composition and foraging activity in the same transects. We captured queens from five different bumblebee species in vane traps. Observations of transects for forager activity yielded little data, and we recommend future studies employ walking transects.

 

Featured photo by Michael Dillon, taken from the AMK Ranch photo collection.