Talus Footslope Forest

Description

The reference plant community is categorized as an open and sparsely vegetated talus plant community. The single community phase within the reference state is mainly affected by rockfall disturbances from weathered and eroded material upslope from the site. This action can result in selective damage and slumping of woody vegetation. In addition, individual trees can be affected by root rot, strong winds, and ice damage (Nelson 2010).

Dominant plant species

1. northern red oak (Quercus rubra), tree

2. sugar maple (Acer saccharum), tree

3. American bladdernut (Staphylea trifolia), shrub

4. walking fern (Asplenium rhizophyllum), grass

5. jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), grass

Submodel

Description

Outdoor recreation can have negative impacts on soil, vegetation, wildlife, and water resources when left unmanaged. Hiking trail-related impacts tend to display a linear corridor of disturbance, causing the most harm to endangered species or sensitive plant populations, but these disturbances can extend significantly further into natural landscapes (Tyser and Worley 1992; Monz et al. 2009). Climbing-related impacts have been found to trample sensitive talus plant communities. Repeated tramplings can lead to changes in community composition and a reduction of species diversity and cover (McMillan and Larson 2002; Muller et al. 2004; Holzman 2013).

Dominant plant species

1. sugar maple (Acer saccharum), tree

2. Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), grass

3. heartleaf peppervine (Ampelopsis cordata), grass

Submodel