We are examining the effects of cattle grazing on soil processes in upland and riparian systems by looking at soil processes as mediators and indicators of disturbance. Soils are sensitive to disturbances induced by cattle that may involve changes in physical properties such as bulk density, porosity, soil structure, and water percolation. Disturbance can also result in changes in soil chemical and biological properties including N-cycling, soil organic matter storage and turnover, and trace gas emissions. It is important to understand changes in microbial communities and process for two reasons. Changes in microbial dynamics can therefore mediate the effects of disturbance on groundwater and streamwater chemistry.
Microbial communities are sensitive to changes in soil structure, microclimate, and chemical inputs.
Thus, while it may take decades for soil physical structure to completely respond to a mild disturbance or the removal of one, it is possible that microbial indicators may change measurably over much shorter time scales. Our research will address the effects of grazing on soil processes in the foothill woodland of the Lisque Creek watershed, with subsequent repercussions for nutrient availability and movement. These processes affect streamwater quality in Figueroa Creek, and ultimately the Santa Ynez River. In order to document the plant species present on the reserve, specimens were collected from the field, identified, prepared for permanent mounting, and given an herbarium voucher number for future reference. Four hundred and eleven collections from a number of habitats have been made and are in the process of being prepared and identified.