Predicting spread of invasive exotic plants into dewatered reservoirs after dam removal on the Elwha River, Olympic National Park, Washington

Dam removal on the Elwha River could significantly alter the landscape of Olympic National Park's reservoirs, but research predicts that invasive exotic plants may spread into these areas post-removal. The study identified high-risk zones for long-distance dispersal of invasive species, primarily through vectors like wind, water, birds, beavers, ungulates, and human activity on roads and trails. By combining survey data with geographic information system (GIS) models and statistical analyses, the research prioritized treatment areas to mitigate ecological disruption before dam removal begins in 2011. This approach aims to protect native vegetation recovery by addressing potential threats from invasive species.

Woodward, A., Torgersen, C. E., Chenoweth, J., Beirne, K., & Acker, S. (2011). Predicting spread of invasive exotic plants into dewatered reservoirs after dam removal on the Elwha River, Olympic National Park, Washington. Open-File Report. https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr20111048