WWRC 94-18
Aspen and Shrubby Cinquefoil Response to Streamflow Augmentation, and their Groundwater Relationships
Abstract
A previously ephemeral stream in southeastern Wyoming has been used since
1985 to convey a portion of the City of Cheyenne's water supply. This study was
initiated to evaluate the response of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) density, and
shrubby cinquefoil (Pentaphyloidesfloribunda Pursh.) density and canopy cover to
streamflow augmentation and altered groundwater levels. Depth-to-groundwater
suitability relationships were investigated for both spedes.
Aspen density declined significantly as a result of streamflow augmentation on
sites that became saturated or inundated for several consecutive growing seasons.
Shrubby cinquefoil density also decreased significantly where the soil was saturated or
inundated for several consecutive growing seasons. Conversely, shrubby cinquefoil
canopy cover increased on one site as a result of flow augmentation
Both aspen and shrubby cinquefoil showed a wide range of tolerance for
groundwater levels, but neither showed a distinct relationship to depth to groundwater.
Other environmental factors may play a significant role in determining the distribution of
these species.
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