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Abstract
Field and GPS mapping of non native smooth brome and creeping thistle over a three-year period documented the invasive nature of these alien plant species in a natural area park in northwest Calgary, Alberta. Digital maps were constructed, demonstrating the urgent need to manage for native biodiversity in rough fescue grasslands.
Summary:
Biodiversity or Monoculture?
Biodiversity is needed in Whispering Woods, near Dr. Coffin Elementary School in Calgary, Alberta. Different species of plants and animals need to be preserved to support the whole ecosystem. There is much more there than just the grasses, such as native birds, voles, and insects. Grasslands are important in carbon cycling, and actually use more carbon per acre than trees. Root structures of native grass are deeper than those of non native grasses, and are also deeper than those of trees. Thus erosion of non native areas is more drastic than of native areas. For example, more riverbanks were lost in the June 2005 flooding in Calgary in areas with non natives.
Which Would You prefer?
For the 'reality' fairs that I was in, I needed to compile a log book. This log book has all of my GPS reference points in it, as well as some of the things that I did leading up to the fairs.
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