bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Mitochondrial DNA in Wolves and Coyotes in the Northern Rockies using the Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Vyse Ernest
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was the comparison of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences from Northern Montana and Minnesota wolves to the extinct wolves of Yellowstone National Park (YNP). This comparison was intended to provide a genetic basis to identify potential wolf stocks for introduction into YNP. Unfortunately the only extinct YNP specimens available were dried tanned skins from the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and YNP. The nucleic acids extracted from these skins was so badly degraded that no amplification of mtDNA was possible; so the critical comparisons could not be made. The control region of the mtDNA is 1100-1200 nucleotides long in vertebrates, contains sequences that control replication and gene activation and in terms of evolutionary analysis has the desired feature of both variable and conserved regions. The variable regions provide the genetic diversity that is the basis of taxonomic and evolutionary studies while the conserved regions provide the ability to synthesize short complementary oligonucleotides to prime the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the organisms studies.
Lichens of Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Eversman Sharon
Published: July 2020

Lichens are an important group when considering the biodiversity of a region. While not usually considered economically important, they are conspicuous parts of the flora of alpine rock and soil, contributing to rock weathering and providing habitat for small invertebrates. In the forest zones, large hanging fruticose species are food for deer and elk and are indicators of high air quality. Soil lichens at all elevations are important stabilizers, helping to prevent wind and water erosion. Since lichens have a very slow growth rate, a diverse lichen flora indicates stable undisturbed environments. The major objective of this project was to characterize the lichen flora of Grand Teton National Park, providing a species list as part of the ongoing lichen studies in the northern Rocky Mountains and as a contribution to the database for all national parks. Lichen specimens were also collected for element analysis to provide a baseline for air quality assessment.
Biodiversity and Remotely Sensed Habitat Types: A Comparison of Montane Meadows in the Gallatin Range, MT and in Grand Teton National Park, WY
Authors: Debinski Diane , Kindscher Kelly , Jakubauskas Mark
Published: July 2020

During the last decade, many approaches to biodiversity analysis have relied on the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remotely sensed data to categorize habitats, and then predict species assemblages expected to be found in those habitats. For example, Gap analysis uses predictions based on knowledge of the geographical limits of a species' distribution, ecological limiting factors, and habitat preferences (Scott et al. 1993). The goal of Gap analysis is to compare locations of plant and animal habitats to those of existing preserves, thereby identifying geographical gaps in habitat and/or species protection. One problem with this approach to conservation planning is that Gap analysis has not been extensively tested to determine the accuracy of its predictions (Flather et al. 1995). Thus, an important parallel approach to Gap analysis, which we describe here, involves assessing statistical relationships between species distribution patterns and remotely sensed habitat types. For the past several years, we have used plants and butterflies as taxonomic test groups to examine these relationships. Because the plant species with dominant cover play a major role in determining the spectral reflectance patterns recorded by multispectral scanners, we felt that it was imperative to test the relationship between the remotely sensed habitat types and the plant community. Butterfly species were chosen because they are moderately host-specific insects, and their diversity may be correlated with underlying plant diversity. We have found that many of the butterfly and plant species of montane meadow communities show significant differences in distribution among remotely sensed habitat types (Debinski 1996, Jakubauskas et al. 1996). Here, we pose the question whether species-habitat relationships (based on remotely sensed habitat categorization of montane meadows) in one part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem will hold in another area of the ecosystem. The long-term goal of our research is to use known species-habitat relationships to predict species distribution patterns in unsurveyed sites. The test of geographic limits of species-habitat relationships is the first step in our analysis. More extensive data will be collected during 1997-1998, allowing for a more rigorous comparisons.
Behavior of River Otters in the Oxbow Bend Vicinity, Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Hall Joseph
Published: July 2020

The 1996 project was a continuation of the study begun in 1995 - to obtain information on movements, sociability, and activity patterns of river otters in the Oxbow region of the Snake River within Grand Teton National Park. Particular emphasis was on nocturnal patterns as documented by automatic cameras activated by buried treadleÂ­switches in places otters were known to frequent, such as latrines, resting sites and feeding sites. Daytime activity was monitored both by the cameras and by routine canoe patrols. Field work was carried out July 5- August 5.
Amphibian Declines in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem: Toads with Protection from Bacterial Disease
Authors: Hawk Jeremy , Peterson Charles
Published: July 2020

During the past forty years, biologists have become increasingly concerned about the decline and disappearance of various amphibian species throughout the world (Wyman 1990, Wake 1991). An example of an amphibian decline in western North America is that of the Boreal Toad (Bufo boreas). A previously widespread and abundant species, the Boreal Toad has undergone large population declines and is now a candidate for threatened and endangered status in the eastern half of its range (Stebbins and Cohen 1995, Federal Register 1995). Decreases in Boreal Toad abundance and distribution have been observed in Colorado, eastern Wyoming, and eastern Utah (Com et al. 1989). From 1971-82, eleven Boreal Toad populations disappeared from the West Elk Mountains of Colorado (Carey 1993). During this eleven-year period, numerous individuals were observed exhibiting symptoms of redleg, a wellÂ­documented disease in amphibians caused by the bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila (Russel 1898, Emerson and Norris 1905, Kulp and Borden 1942, Reed and Toner 1942, Dusi 1949, Hunsaker and Potter 1960, Hird et. al. 1981, Nyman 1986, Carey 1993). This disease was considered responsible for the decline and ultimate extinction of these eleven toad populations. These extinctions led Carey to propose a hypothesis regarding the disease process which is stated as follows: (1) Some environmental factor or synergistic effects of more than one factor changes sufficiently to cause sublethal "stress;" (2) This stress directly causes suppression of the immune system, or indirectly causes immunosuppression by effecting elevated secretion of adrenal cortical hormones; (3) Immunosuppression, coupled with the apparent effect of cold body temperatures on the ability of immune systems of ectothermic animals to fight disease, leads to infection by Aeromonas or other infectious agents, and to subsequent death of individuals and extinction of populations.
Front Matter and Table of Contents
Authors: Harlow Henry , Harlow Maryanne
Published: July 2020

This entry contains the front cover, front matter and back cover.
Paleontological Resources at Grand Teton National Park, Northwestern Wyoming
Authors: Santucci Vincent , Wall William
Published: July 2020

Paleontological resources occur throughout the formations exposed in Grand Teton National Park. A comprehensive paleontological survey has not been attempted previously at Grand Teton National Park. Preliminary paleontologic resource data is given in this report in order to establish baseline data.
Causes and Consequences of Alternative Successional Trajectories Following the 1988 Yellowstone Fires
Authors: Turner Monica , Romme William , Knight Dennis , Tinker Daniel
Published: July 2020

The 1988 Yellowstone fires created a strikingly heterogeneous pattern of severely burned, lightly burned, and unburned forests across a large portion of Yellowstone's subalpine Plateau (Turner et al. 1994). Equally striking has been the variation in post-fire tree seedling density throughout the burned forests. In 1999 we initiated a 3-year study of postÂ­fire succession, with three principal objectives: (1) to document the variation in post-fire tree sapling density and to map the spatial patterns of sapling density (2) to explain the causes of the variation in postÂ­fire sapling density (3) to explore the consequences of variable post-fire sapling density for ecosystem processes, specifically aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) and leaf area index (LAI).
Neonatal Mortality of Elk in Areas With and Without Grizzly Bears
Authors: Smith Bruce , Williams Elizabeth , McFarland Katherine , Lindzey Fred , Moore Tom
Published: July 2020

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) may support the densest populations of elk in North America, and a diverse community of large carnivores that prey on elk. From 1984 to 1996, the Jackson elk herd doubled in size exceeding its winter population objective of 11,000 elk by nearly 7,000 animals (Smith and Anderson 1998). In and adjacent to Grand Teton National Park (GTNP), mortality of neonatal elk averaged 15% annually during 1990-1992 (Smith and Anderson 1996). Predation by black bears and coyotes, when calves were less than 4 weeks of age, caused 68% of neonatal mortality. Calves killed by mountain lions were more than 4 months old. Except for hunting, predation was the largest source of mortality of radioÂ­collared elk from birth through adulthood. After 1992, grizzly bear activity on federal cattle grazing allotments in eastern GTNP and the adjacent Spread Creek drainage of the Bridger-Teton National Forest (the East Study Area or East SA) markedly increased as did cattle losses to bears. Personnel of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department attributed 26 cattle losses (25 calves, 1 cow) in the East SA in 1993 to grizzly bear predation (Wyoming Game and Fish Department 1995). The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission, which compensates cattle producers for losses due to grizzly predation, initiated a study in 1994 to quantify the proportion of cattle losses in the East SA due to grizzly predation. One grizzly bear documented killing cattle each year, was captured and euthanized in GTNP in 1996. Grizzly bears are opportunistic omnivores that consume both plant and animal foods (Blanchard et al. 1992). Grizzly bear predation on elk calves less than 4 weeks of age was the primary cause of mortality of calves and a major factor regulating the size of Yellowstone National Park's northern elk herd (Singer et al. 1997). Smith and Anderson (1996) found no evidence of grizzly predation on Jackson elk during 1990-1992. However, mid-summer calf:cow ratios of elk in the Spread Creek area of eastern GTNP declined after 1993. We initiated this study in 1997 to compare causes of elk calf mortality in the grizzly-occupied East SA and the relatively grizzly-free area of GTNP west of the Snake River (West SA). The objectives were to: determine: 1) if grizzly bears were preying on elk calves, 2) whether such mortality was compensatory or additive to other sources of mortality, 3) if changes in neonatal mortality altered the harvestable surplus of elk from the Jackson elk herd for hunters, and 4) any influence of environmental factors, and physiological status on survival of elk neonates.
Plant Species Richness and Non-Native Invasions in Five Riparian Communities in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Authors: Marks Heather
Published: July 2020

Non-native species invasions in national parks directly interfere with the major management goal of protecting native biota. The status of species richness and non-native invasions was assessed in five riparian vegetation types in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, with nested-scale number and frequency vegetation data using a ModifiedÂ­Whittaker sampling design. In the 20 (1OOO-m2 plots sampled, non-native species represented 11.9% (35) of the total 294 species recorded. Non-native species were found in small populations either widely dispersed across the five vegetation types or appearing to have some level of habitat specificity. Total species richness across the five vegetation types varied from 42 species in the sage community to 96 species in the conifer-broadleaf community. Overall, mean species richness across the five communities was 81.9 species/0.1 ha. A suite of environmental variables such as nutrient availability, flood regime, herbivory as well as successional trends may explain the variability in species richness across communities. Patterns of total species richness across multiple scales were fairly consistent. Patterns of non-native species invasion, however, appeared to be both scale and vegetation type dependent. The highest proportion of non-native species for four of the five vegetation types was recorded at the smaller sampling scales. The alder community was the most invaded at all scales measured and had the most distinct assemblage of non-native species. Some studies suggest that community invasibility may be related to species richness. At the 1-m2 and 1000- m2 scales, total species richness and number of non-native species were significantly and positively correlated. When the alder sites were removed from analysis at the 1000- m2 scale, the positive linear relationship increased, and the total variance explained by the linear models was enhanced by 38%. At all scales sampled, the alder sites were highly and disproportionately invaded, often more than twice the level of other communities. The mechanism of nitrogen fixation may be promoting non-native invasions in the alder community. At the vegetation type scale (combined species lists from four 1OOO-m2 plots in each community), those communities with the most unique non-native assemblages were the most invaded. A significant negative linear relationship between nonÂ­native species overlap and percentage of non-native species was observed in the alder sites at each scale sampled. This pattern suggests some relationship between properties of an invading species and properties of the community that it invades. Because the results of this study suggest species rich riparian landscapes are vulnerable to non-native invasions, recommendations are offered to assist managers in responding efficiently and effectively to this conservation priority.
The Effects of Climatically Altered Fire Regimes on Initial Successional Responses in Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Schoennagel Tania , Turner Monica
Published: July 2020

Many scientists predict that due to the quick response of fire regimes to changes in climate (Flannigan et al. 1998; Stocks et al. 1998), the most rapid and extensive effects of climate change will be mediated by altered disturbance regimes (Davis and Botkin 1985; Franklin et al. 1992; Graham et al. 1990; Weber and Flannigan 1997). Under climate scenarios expected for C02 doubling, Price and Rind (1994) predict a 44% increase in lightning-caused fires and a 78% increase in total area burned for the U.S. Although regional climate scenarios are still subject to a fairly high degree of uncertainty, regional predictions for Yellowstone National Park (YNP) estimate an increase in aridity (Balling et al. 1992) and mean July temperatures (Bartlein et al. 1997), suggesting that fire frequencies could significantly increase in YNP over the next century. While several models have simulated the response of western coniferous forests to altered fire regimes (Baker et al. 1991; Gardner et al. 1996; Keane et al. 1990; Keane et al. 1995; Romme and Turner 1991), little empirical work on the successional responses to different intervals of standÂ­replacing fire has been incorporated, and remains a critical element in predicting the effects of climatically altered disturbance regimes in forested landscapes. Previous work in Yellowstone has considered the effects of fire severity, fire size and level of serotiny in explaining initial pathways of postfrre succession across the Yellowstone landscape (Turner et al. 1994; Turner et al. 1997). The effects of the third component of the disturbance regime, fire interval, remains largely unexplored, and represents a fundamental link in predicting potential effects of climate change on the Yellowstone landscape. The specific objectives of our research, therefore, were to assess: Are there a significantly different successional responses following different intervals of stand-replacing fire in Yellowstone National Park? Because serotiny exerts a strong influence on initial post-fire succession in Yellowstone (characterized by variation in lodgepole pine densities), we also sought to track stand-level changes in serotiny over time. In order to flesh out a possible mechanism for why postfrre succession may vary depending upon the age at which the stand burns we asked: What is the temporal variation in lodgepole pine serotiny within the park?
Long-Term Monitoring of Montane Meadow Biodiversity in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Debinski Diane , Kindscher Kelly
Published: July 2020

This research project is part of an ongoing biodiversity inventory and monitoring effort that began in 1992. It involves using intensive, local field sampling to test for relationships between species distribution pattetns and remotely sensed data. We have been using a time series of satellite multispectral imagery for monitoring the extent, condition, and spatial pattern of montane meadows on a seasonal and interannual time scale. Spectrally-based, spatiallyÂ­explicit models have been developed for six meadow types along a hydrological gradient. Statistically significant relationships were found between remotely sensed data and a large number of plant and animal species in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). We have shown that mesic meadows (meadows intermediate in the hydrological gradient) are the sites of highest plant species diversity and the sites of highest seasonal and interannual change. Our research during 2001 was specifically targeted to continue monitoring the plant and animal communities of the GYE with the goal of developing a list of indicator species and their present year-to-year variation. The rarity and low abundances of some of the species have limited our understanding of these patterns to the most common species. Thus, additional data will allow us to expand upon our understanding of these groups as indicators. We believe that these communities and their associated species may be some of the best indicators of environmental change in the GYE.
White Pine Blister Rust in the Greater Yellowstone Area
Authors: Newcomb Maria , Six Diana
Published: July 2020

White pine blister rust is a disease caused by an introduced fungal pathogen (Cronartium ribicola). The disease system is a complex cross-Kingdom interaction between three groups of organisms (white pines, Ribes, and a fungal pathogen). The pathogen alternates between white pine hosts (subgenus Strobus) where it persists as a perennial and often lethal infection, and currant and goosebeny hosts (members of the genus Ribes) where it infects the deciduous leaves and results in relatively minor impacts. In many areas of North America white pines are severely threatened by the disease, which is often recognized as the most devastating disease of conifers (Klinkowski 1970). Since the early 1900s when the pathogen first arrived in North America, forest managers have been challenged by the difficulties of blister rust control and predictions of damage and spread. Recent control efforts have focused on developing rust-resistant white pines (Maloy 1997). Advances in molecular techniques have led to a rapid increase in our understanding of pathogen virulence and plant disease resistance. Thus thorough research on white pine blister rust will encompass a combination of investigations of small parts of the system, including molecular descriptions of individual members and controlled-environment studies of simplified interactions, and ecological investigations of infection patterns in real-world forest conditions (where all the parts are interacting simultaneously). This study is a field investigation of white pine blister rust in the Greater Yellowstone Area (GYA).
A Genetic Wallace's Line Across Wyoming- Genetic Structure of North American Rosy-Finches
Authors: McDonald David
Published: July 2020

North American rosy-finches (genus Leucosticte) are currently classified by the American Ornithologists' Union (1998) as three species - the Brown-capped Rosy-Finch, L. australis, with a breeding range largely restricted to the Colorado Rockies, but extending barely into southeast Wyoming and northern New Mexico, the Black Rosy-Finch, L. atrata, breeding from Utah north through western Wyoming (including GTNP) and west to Idaho and Nevada, and the Gray-crowned RosyÂ­Finch, L. tephrocotis, breeding from the Sierra Nevada through the Cascades and from northern Montana through the Rockies to Alaska. Based on previous results for a surprising genetic break for black bears (Ursus americanus) across Wyoming, I was interested in the degree of genetic differentiation among populations of rosy-finches, particularly between Brown-capped Rosy-Finches in Colorado and Black Rosy-Finches in Wyoming. Because the mating system is largely unknown, and because of reports in the literature of highly male-biased sex ratios (e.g., 6 males per female; French, 1959), I was also interested in using genetic markers to assess patterns of parentage in rosy-finches. Because of its striking plumage (often indicative of strong sexual selection) I was particularly interested in the Black Rosy-Finch. Using polymorphic microsatellites (nuclear DNA) we have now analyzed an initial sample of individuals from the three North American forms, including three sets of nestling Black RosyÂ­Finches and the behavioral father at one of the nests.
How Do Disturbance-Generated Patterns Influence the Spatial Dynamics of Ecoystem Processes
Authors: Turner Monica , Romme William , Tinker Daniel
Published: July 2020

Our studies following the 1988 Yellowstone fires demonstrated that succession was surprisingly more variable in space and time than even current theory would have suggested, and that initial spatial patterns of disturbance may persist to produce longÂ­lasting changes in vegetation. Our focus now is on explaining the spatial and temporal patterns of succession and understanding how these patterns influence ecosystem function. The most interesting new questions revolve around the degree to which the spatial variation in postfire vegetation in particular, the six orders of magnitude variation in pine sapling density, ranging from 0 to greater than 500,000 saplings/ha controls the spatial variability in ecosystem processes across the landscape. In our current research, we are conducting studies in both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks to answer four major questions:
Climatic Factors, Reproductive Success and Population Dynamics in the Montane Vole, Microtus montanus.
Authors: Pinter Aelita
Published: July 2020

A variety of hypotheses have been proposed to explain multiannual fluctuations in population density ("cycles") of small rodents (for reviews see Finerty 1980, Taitt and Krebs 1985). Doubtless, such cycles - known since antiquity (Elton 1942) - result from an interaction of a multitude of factors. However, the inability of extant hypotheses, alone or in combination, to explain the causality of cycles rests in no small measure with the fact that long-term studies of the phenomenon are notoriously uncommon. The objectives of this project are to continue the long-term study of population dynamics of the montane vole, Microtus montanus, in Grand Teton National Park. Earlier observations (Pinter 1986, 1988) indicate that environmental variables might contribute to the population density cycles of these rodents, possibly by influencing their growth and various aspects of their reproduction.
Assessment of Hydrologic Transient Storage of Three Streams
Authors: Gooseff Michael
Published: July 2020

Stream sediments are important locations of biogeochemical transformations upon which many stream ecosystem functions depend. Stream water is often exchanged between the stream channel and surrounding subsurface locations - this process is known as hyporheic exchange. While stream water is moving through the hyporheic zone, solutes and nutrients may undergo important chemical reactions that are not possible in the main stream channel. Further, because the hyporheic zone is composed of porous media (sand, sediment, alluvium, etc.), flow inherently slows down and the exchanging water has ample opportunity to interact with mineral grain surfaces and biofilms.
Bat and Terrestrial Mammal Inventories in the Greater Yellowstone Network
Authors: Keinath Douglas
Published: July 2020

The National Park Service (NPS) is undertaking a nationwide effort to inventory and monitor the biological resources within its management areas. Recognizing the need for a cross-boundary, ecosystem approach to natural resource management, the system of national parks has been grouped into Cooperative Ecosystem Units to facilitate inventory, monitoring, and subsequent management decisions in ecologically meaningful areas. The Greater Yellowstone Network (GYN) includes Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks (YNP and GTNP) and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (BICA). A combined effort of biologists from these parks and regional wildlife experts resulted in the recent release of a study plan for the GYN inventory and monitoring efforts (NPS, 2000). This document identified significant gaps in information on the species richness, abundance, and distribution of bat species within all GYN parks and terrestrial mammals in BICA. They have therefore proposed that the NPS conduct a comprehensive inventory of bats throughout GYN and terrestrial mammals in BICA to establish a benchmark for future monitoring efforts and management actions. The specific goals of these inventory efforts, as stated in the GYN Study Plan (NPS, 2000), are as follows:
A Comparison of Fire Regimes and Stand Dynamics in Whitebark Pine (Pinus albicaulis) Communities in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Romme William , Walsh James
Published: July 2020

Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) is a keystone species of upper subalpine ecosystems (Tomback et al. 2001), and is especially important in the high-elevation ecosystems of the northern Rocky Mountains (Arno and Hoff 1989). Its seeds are an essential food source for the endangered grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis), particularly in the autumn, prior to winter denning (Mattson and Jonkel 1990, Mattson and Reinhart 1990, Mattson et al. 1992). In the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), biologists have concluded that the fate of grizzlies is intrinsically linked to the health of the whitebark pine communities found in and around Yellowstone National Park (YNP) (Mattson and Merrill 2002). Over the past century, however, whitebark pine has severely declined throughout much of its range as a result of an introduced fungus, white pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola) (Hoff and Hagle 1990, Smith and Hoffman 2000, McDonald and Hoff 2001), native pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) infestations (Bartos and Gibson 1990, Kendall and Keane 2001), and, perhaps in some locations, successional replacement related to fire exclusion and fire suppression (Amo 2001). The most common historical whitebark pine ftre regimes are "stand-replacement", and "mixedÂ­ severity" regimes (Morgan et al. 1994, Arno 2000, Arno and Allison-Bunnell2002). In the GYE, mixed-severity ftre regimes have been documented in whitebark pine forests in the Shoshone National forest NW of Cody, WY (Morgan and Bunting 1990), and in NE Yellowstone National Park (Barrett 1994). In Western Montana and Idaho, mixed fire regimes have been documented in whitebark pine communities in the Bob Marshall Wilderness (Keane et al. 1994), Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness (Brown et al. 1994), and the West Bighole Range (Murray et al.1998). Mattson and Reinhart (1990) found a standÂ­replacing fire regime on the Mount Washburn Massif, within Yellowstone National Park.
A Survey of Beaver Location and Habitat to Model Their Distribution in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Authors: Gribb William , Harlow Henry
Published: July 2020

A species that attracted a considerable amount of attention during the early years of American colonization and western exploration was the beaver (Castor canadensis). So important was this species that treaties between European countries specifically identified the trading of its furs (Long, 2000). It is estimated that over 60 million beavers were removed from the North American landscape between the early 1600s through the late 1800s (Long, 2000). By the beginning of the 1900s it is believed that only 10% of the pre-settlement population of beavers remained. Though not extinct, their numbers were radically reduced because of the fur trade and their "destructive" behavior of cutting trees and ponding water that interfered with America's growth. This perception of their detriment to the environment has been dramatically changed, and they are now perceived as ecosystem engineers that assist in creating beneficial habitat and restoring damaged landscapes (Naiman et al., 1988). Thus, it is essential in this revised role, that we know the distribution of the beaver, their habitats, and to determine the best management practices to utilize their benefits to the ecosystem.
Allometric Model Development in Lodgepole Pine Forests of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Tinker Daniel , Arcano Rick
Published: July 2020

Changes in climatic patterns in western North America may modify natural fire regimes, resulting in alterations in forest structure and productivity (Amiro et al. 2000). More frequent fues would create substantial landscape-scale heterogeneity and, consequently, variability in how individual trees and stands allocate biomass in response to the differences in forest structure (Chapin et al. 2002; Turner et al. 2004). For example, in the lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia [Engelm. ex Wats.] Critchfield) forests of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), recent and historic fires have created a complex mosaic of forest stand structures and aboveground net primary production (NPP) (Turner et al. 1997, 2004). The quantification of forest structure and function at large spatial scales requires accurate measurements of aboveground and belowground tree biomass. Allometric equations for estimating aboveÂ­ and belowground biomass of lodgepole pine have been developed in Alberta, Canada, southeastern British Columbia, southeastern WY, and in Washington and Oregon (Johnstone 1971; Comeau and Kimmins 1989; Pearson et al. 1984; Gholz et al. (1979, respectively). More recently, allometric equations for young lodgepole pine saplings have also been developed in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) for aboveground biomass by Turner et al. (2004), and for belowground biomass by Litton et al. (2003). However, because of variability in latitude, growing conditions, substrate and climate, existing equations that predict biomass for mature lodgepole pine trees are not appropriate for use in the GYE, and new allometric equations specific for the GYE are needed. In this study, we will develop new allometric equations for predicting above- and belowground biomass in mature lodgepole pine forests of the GYE. The specific objectives of this study were to: (1) develop allometric models for predicting above and belowground biomass of mature lodgepole pine trees in the GYE, and determine how these equations differ with stand density and age; (2) compare and contrast allometric equations developed in this study to allometric equations developed in other locations to determine applicability across geographic loc-ations independent of forest structure.
Parasite Infection Status of Potamopyrgus Antipodarum
Authors: Adema Coen , Hanelt Ben , Seville R.
Published: July 2020

Outside its native range, the invasive species Potamopyrgus antipodarum (New Zealand Mud snail; NZMS) has seldom been reported to harbor parasites. To test this intriguing observation, 7 sites along the Snake River and Polecat Creek in the Grand Teton National Park/John D Rockefeller Memorial Parkway area (W yoming, USA) were surveyed for NZMS, native aquatic snails and parasites: digenean trematodes (specialist parasites of snails) and nematomorphs (horse hair worms, generalist parasites of aquatic invertebrates), in July 2005. Non-destructive examination of 96 native snails at each site revealed abundant presence of digeneans (parasites that specialize in snails) at 6 sites. Within 2 hours, up to 12.4% of lymnaeid snails shed furcocercous cercaria or xiphidiocercaria, and up to 50% of physid snails released furcocercous cercaria or echinostome cercaria. A total of ~900 NZMS (collected from 5 of the sites) were investigated for infection with digeneans by overnight shedding. One NZMS yielded amphistomeÂ­like metacercariae that had encysted in the observation tray. The dissection of 150 ethanol-fixed NZMS (30/site) revealed several types of internal metacercarial stages of digeneans in 5 snails (all from Polecat Creek). PCR-based assays targeting parasite rDNA sequences in DNA extracted from pools of 150 snails each also indicated associations between digenean parasites and NZMS. All parasites were detected in NZMS from Polecat Creek. NZMS were not observed to harbor nematomorph parasites with any of the techniques used. In conclusion, the sites tested contained multiple native snail-digenean parasite associations, and the capacity of invasive NZMS outside the native range to serve as first and second intermediate host for digenean parasites may have been underestimated previously.
Allometric Model Development in Lodgepole Pine Forests of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Tinker Daniel , Arcano Rick
Published: July 2020

Allometric equations for estimating aboveÂ­ and belowground biomass of lodgepole pine have been developed in Alberta, Canada, southeastern British Columbia, southeastern WY, and in Washington and Oregon (Johnstone 1971; Comeau and Kimmins 1989; Pearson et al. 1984; Gholz et al. 1979, respectively). More recently, allometric equations for young lodgepole pine saplings have also been developed in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) for aboveground biomass by Turner et al. (2004), and for belowground biomass by Litton et al. (2003). However, because of variability in latitude, growing conditions, substrate and climate, existing equations that predict biomass for mature lodgepole pine trees are not appropriate for use in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), and new allometric equations specific for the GYE are needed. In this study, we will develop new allometric equations for predicting above- and belowground biomass in mature lodgepole pine forests of the GYE.
The Effect of Nitrogen Depostition and Edaphic Conditions on Microbial Activity in the Alpine Zone of the Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Van Miegroet Helga
Published: July 2020

Atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition rates show increasing N loadings since the 1980s in the western U.S. associated with increasing N emissions from industrial, urban, and agricultural sources (Fenn et al., 2003). Compared to the eastern U.S., the number of NADP/NTN (National Atmospheric Deposition Program/ National Trends Network) and CASTNet (Clean Air Status Network) monitoring sites is much more limited in the west, and they are rarely located in the highest-elevations, where ecosystems are likely to be more sensitive (Bums 2004). Although N deposition tends to increase with elevation in this region (Williams and Tonnesen 2000), there are considerable uncertainties about the actual N deposition levels in the Rocky Mountains. Model-simulations indicate a "hotspot" of N deposition near Grand Teton National Park (GRTE) (Fenn et al., 2003; Nanus et al. 2003), with feedlot and fertilizer N emissions in Southern Idaho, as potential sources impacting the alpine communities in GRTE. However, little data is currently available on the actual atmospheric N inputs to alpine ecosystems in GRTE, either as snow during winter or wet and dry deposition during the short snow-free period.
Alterations in Yellowstone Lake Nitrogen Cycling Due to Introduced Lake Trout and Subsquent Decline of Yellowstone Cutthoat Trout
Authors: Tronstead Lusha , Hall, Jr. Robert
Published: July 2020

Invasive species may alter processes by indirectly affecting other species in the ecosystem, but indirect affects are difficult to measure and often pre-invasion data were not collected. However, models may be used with empirical relationships and available past data to reconstruct past processes. The introduction of lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in Yellowstone Lake may have indirect effects on nitrogen cycling and provide an opportunity to study the effects of an invasive species on lake processes. To estimate how lake trout altered nitrogen cycling in Yellowstone Lake, we measured ammonium (NH4+) uptake by phytoplankton in 2005 and estimate past NH4+ uptake using empirical relationships and past data. Using 1 5N, we measured phytoplankton uptake in 4 areas of Yellowstone Lake. Phytoplankton demanded 4.9 mg N m-2 hr- 1 during the ice-free season of 2005. Uptake was higher at warmer water temperatures and shallower Secchi disk depths (measure of phytoplankton biomass). Using relationships among uptake, water temperature, and Secchi disk depth, we estimated phytoplankton uptake in the past based on historical Secchi disk depths and water temperatures. Water temperatures have increased 0.29.C/decade and Secchi disk depths became 0.53 m/decade deeper over the past 30 years. Using our multiple regression model, phytoplankton uptake did not change between 1976 and 2006. The interaction between warmer water temperatures and deeper Secchi disk depths (a sparser algal assemblage) cancelled out resulting in no changed in modeled uptake. Therefore, when estimating past processes, we should use multiple predictors.
Mercury Toxicity in Wildland Firefighters: A Progress Report
Authors: Montopoli George , Smith William , Harlow Hank , Menolascino Mark , Wheeler A. , Byerly Andy
Published: July 2020

After the sudden emergence of mercury (Hg) poisoning in bald eagles in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in December 2005, we began a preliminary study to investigate if Hg accumulated at toxic levels in wildland firefighters who were exposed to smoke and other particulates while fighting fires in the western United States during summer 2007. Deviating from our original design, we were able to analyze blood from 12 subjects, and repeated blood draws occurred for only four of those subjects. Three of the subjects had measurable Hg levels that approached the limit of a nonÂ­toxic Hg concentration (
How are Brewer's Sparrows Affected by the Encroachment of the Exotic Grass Species, Smooth Brome (Bromus Inermis Leyss.)?
Authors: Rhuemann Megan , Wolff Sue
Published: July 2020

Sagebrush habitats (Artemisia spp.) across the western United States have been continuously altered since the arrival of early European settlers. Habitat loss and fragmentation in sagebrush-dominated habitats has been attributed to domestic livestock, introduction of non-native vegetation, agricultural expansion, urbanization, and changes in ecological processes that regulate ecosystems (Knick et al. 2003). These alterations have resulted in landscape level changes; for example, it is estimated that between 50-60% of the nearly 63 million hectares once covered by sagebrush in the west have been either completely converted to non-native grasslands or now contain nonÂ­native grasses in the understory (Miller and Eddleman 2001, West 2000 and 1996). The encroachment of non-native plants that compete with native vegetation has been identified as one of the most serious threats to the health and integrity of sagebrush ecosystems throughout the west (Paige and Ritter 1999).
Relief History and Coupling of Erosional Processes in the Teton Range, Wyoming
Authors: Tranel Lisa , Spotila James
Published: July 2020

Erosional processes influence topographic relief in mountain landscapes, but the spatial variation between differential processes and influence on tectonic uplift is poorly understood. Deep canyons and adjacent high peaks distinguish the Teton Mountains from nearby ranges, making it an ideal location to study how glacial, fluvial, and hillslope erosion interact to maintain high topographic relief. The purpose of this study is to quantify erosion rates of individual geomorphic processes in this complex system using a variety of techniques to see how each process contributes to landscape evolution in this mountain range.
Effects of a New Pedestrian Pathway in Grand Teton National Park on Breeding Sagebrush Songbirds
Authors: Chalfoun Anna
Published: July 2020

Human-induced changes to natural landscapes have become ubiquitous, resulting in exposure of wildlife populations to novel stressors (Munns 2006). While it is clear that changes such as habitat loss can directly impact wildlife species, less clear is the extent to which human presence itself functions as a disturbance that influences wildlife behaviors with important fitness consequences. Animals clearly respond to perceived risk of predation by natural predators via, for example, fleeing, or altering foraging and/or breeding habitat selection (Marzluff 1988, Hakkarainen et al. 2001, Frid and Dill2002, Blumstein 2006, Borkowski et al. 2006, Fontaine and Martin 2006). Such responses can alter access to important resources, energy budgets, and therefore attributes such as body condition (Bechet et al. 2004) with potential impacts to survival and reproductive output. Of critical importance to the management of wildlife populations is therefore to determine 1) whether wildlife species perceive human presence as predation risk, 2) how individuals respond to such risk, and 3) how such responses influence fitness consequences and therefore population dynamics and community structure.
Visual Impacts of Stalk Forming Diatoms in Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Spaulding S. , O'Ney S. , Hermann K.
Published: July 2020

A survey was conducted in August 2008 to determine the distribution and extent of stalked diatoms in major rivers and streams in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP). We determined that a nuisance bloom of the diatom Didymosphenia geminata was present in Lake Creek from the outlet of Phelps Lake to approximately 1 km downstream of the Rockefeller Preserve. This bloom was considered "excessive" because the coverage of the stream substrate was 70% or above for greater than 1 km. This diatom species is able to survive out of water in damp conditions, and it may be transported on the gear of recreationalists. In GTNP, this diatom was found in a high visitor use area, with concomitant potential for the species to be spread by anglers to other sites within the national park. Although there are several factors that appear to influence its distribution, recent nuisance blooms of this species suggest popular angling sites are often sites of nuisance blooms. Decontamination of aquatic gear by recreationalists may be appropriate to limit the spread of nuisance blooms within the national park system and adjacent public and private water bodies
Comparison of Grazing Impacts Between the Invasive New Zealand Mudsnail Potamopyrgus Antipidarum, and Native Macroinvertebrates
Authors: Krist Amy , Charles Caroline
Published: July 2020

To understand the impacts of an herbivorous invasive species on native herbivores, it is critical to quantify the relative impact of the invasive and the native species on shared resources. In a field experiment, we compared grazing efficacy of periphyton by the invasive New Zealand mudsnail, Potamopyrgus antipidarum, and 3 native macroinvertebrate grazers. Depending on the measure of periphyton biomass, P. antipodarum removed as much or more periphyton than any of the native grazers. When we examined diatom genera individually, P. antipodarum also suppressed the relative abundance of the greatest number of diatom genera and suppressed those diatoms more than the native grazers. As a result, P. antipodarum should compete strongly for periphyton with native grazers. In particular, because Ephemerella mayflies were the second most effective grazers and grazed many diatom genera similarly to the invasive snails, these mayflies may be competing with P. antipodarum in the introduced range. Overall, grazing ability may contribute to the invasion success of P. antipodarum.
Sage Grouse Chick Survival Rates in Jackson Hole
Authors: Bedrosin Bryan , Crandall Ross
Published: July 2020

The Greater Sage-grouse (Centrocerus urophasianus) population within Jackson Hole has been declining over the past 60 years (Holloran and Anderson 2004). Currently, several unknown population parameters may affect population models, such as nesting productivity (and annual variation therein), nest initiation and re-nesting rates, sex ratio of chicks produced, chick survival, and annual sub-adult and adult survival rates. While previous research has investigated some of these demographic parameters for the Jackson Hole sage-grouse population (Holloran and Anderson 2004); those estimates may not be adequate due to sample size limitations. Further, there are new constraints on this population due to drastic changes in the wintering habitat from wildfires since those estimates were obtained.
A Conceptual and Mechanistic Approach to Understanding Interactions Among Multiple Disturbance Agents: Compound Effects of Fire on Resource Availabilty to Bark Beetles
Authors: Powell Erinn , Jin Suming , Townsend Phil , Raffa Ken
Published: July 2020

Population eruptions by native bark beetles are intermittent and can cause wide spread forest disturbance. The mountain pine beetle (MPB), Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins, is one such bark beetle currently affecting all species of pine in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). MPB populations erupt after generating positive feedback once thresholds are surpassed. Population eruptions require a combination of factors such as favorable weather, tree susceptibility, and the reduced competitors and predators.
Grand Teton National Park Evaluation of Non-Motorized Use: Post Pathway 2010 (Dornan's to South Jenny Lake)
Authors: McGowen Pat , Gleason Rebecca
Published: July 2020

As stated in the September 2006 Transportation Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Grand Teton National Park (GRTE, 2006), âBicycling has become an increasingly popular activity in [GRTE], despite the lack of designated bike lanes and bike paths. Evidence of the interest in bicycling occurs each spring, prior to opening the Teton Park Road to motor vehicles. After the road is cleared of snow by April 1, it remains closed to motor vehicles until May 1. During this time, it is available for non-motorized uses (e.g., bicycling, walking, wheelchairs, rollerblading). The popularity of these activities, especially with local residents, is evident on most days, and during nice weather when the Taggart Lake parking lot is often filled beyond capacity, with the overflow continuing down the road toward Beaver Creek.â Consequently, the plan recommends the adoption of separated shared-use pathways along several roadway corridors within the park. The purpose of these pathways is to enhance mobility for bicyclists and pedestrians in the park, while enhancing their safety by separating them from motorized traffic.