Pacific Southwest Research Station

Modeling Cheatgrass Invasion Risk

Researchers are developing and applying a spatially explicit model of cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) invasion risk in montane meadows of the Tahoe basin by examining regional and local moisture gradients and other factors that affect plant invasion in meadows. The research will predict future impacts and suggest management solutions to cheatgrass invasion under projected climate scenarios.

Full Title: Predictive modeling of cheatgrass invasion risk for the Lake Tahoe basin

Proposal [pdf]

Lead Researchers: Brian Anacker, and Susan Harrison, UC Davis; Hugh Safford, USFS Region 5

Goal
Develop and apply a spatially explicit predictive risk model of cheatgrass invasion in the Lake Tahoe basin.
Note: this project is being coordinated with another project by UC Davis and the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit that will involve experimental field burning in meadows with special attention to subsequent cheatgrass establishment.

Sites: A minimum of 40 plots in the Sierra Nevada that represent the range of environmental conditions found in the basin.

Timeframe: August 2008 through May 2010 (1.5 years)

Products

1. Spatially and temporally explicit invasion risk model for cheatgrass, including GIS layers and maps of cheatgrass invasion
2. Technical report on management guidelines for controlling cheatgrass
3. Development of manuscript for submission to peer-reviewed journal
4. Workshop with Tahoe Basin land managers