WWRC 97-05gg
Stubble Height and Function of Riparian Communities: Channel and Plant Succession
Abstract
Stubble height, a measurement of remaining
vegetation at a time the measurement occurs will be
discussed as it influences sediment deposition.
Because sediment deposition may occur, succession
from one stream channel configuration to another
should take place. Therefore, groundwater
relationships to plants growing along these changing
banks may be altered and plant succession may also
occur. Evidence will be presented to show that plants
which require high water tables most of the growing
season may be at a disadvantage to compete with
plants which can withstand a rapid decline in the
water table and therefore, these may become
dominate along a mature channel system.
Furthermore, stubble height required to maintain
plant health may also decrease when plant succession
occurs. Therefore, managers should consider using
flexible stubble height standards to manage sediment
deposition and grazing of riparian zones.
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