Sacaton Riparian Grasslands: Mapping Distribution and Ecological Condition
Sacaton grasslands, now reduced to 5% of their historic range, are vital for watershed health and wildlife. This report details mapping methods, management strategies, and habitat restoration insights from Las Cienegas NCA.
Subject Tags
- Watersheds
Abstract
Riparian grasslands dominated by big sacaton (Sporobolus wrightii) once covered floodplains across the southwest, but have been reduced to some 5% of their historical extent. Sacaton stands that remain provide key resources for watershed function, wildlife, and livestock—yet may need special management to sustain these benefits. This report describes mapping methods and management recommendations that can be applied to riparian grasslands throughout the region. By examining sacaton grasslands in the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, this project also refines methods for evaluating ecological condition, and provides managers at this site with detailed maps of both high-quality habitat and restoration needs.
Citation
Tiller, R.L., Hughes, M. and Bodner, G.S., 2012. Sacaton riparian grasslands: mapping distribution and ecological condition using state-and-transition models in Upper Cienega Creek Watershed. The Nature Conservancy, Tucson, Arizona, 45.
TNC Authors
-
Gita Bodner
Conservation Ecologist
The Nature Conservancy Arizona
Email: gbodner@tnc.org