CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR SPRING ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION IN THE ARID SOUTHWEST

Spring ecosystems are unique and important resources in arid regions. They are integral parts of greater watersheds as they are hotspots for biodiversity, they harbor endemic and sometimes endangered species, as well as provide a wealth of information on groundwater quality and quantity (Sada et aL 2001; Stevens and Meretsky 2008). Although springs are proportionally small in comparison to other types of water sources (e.g. rivers, lakes), they face a unique predicament because they are subject to the same demands placed upon all water resources in the Southwest; however, they are not afforded the same consideration in management plans and practices (Stevens and Meretsky 2008; Nelson 2008). A historical lack of effective management practices to conserve and protect these important ecosystems has also contributed to the threatened status of springs ecosystems in the arid Southwest. Springs are often diverted or developed for human use and livestock often graze near springs in and regions causing a multitude of negative effects. Furthermore, springs are being affected by recent trends of high rates of groundwater pumpage for municipal uses (Sada et al. 2001; Unmack and Minckley 2008). With the high rate of degradation, spring ecosystems would greatly benefit from thorough and effective restoration practices. This paper addresses the challenges faced and looks into the strategies developed for effective spring ecosystem restoration. This is done by outlining the current status of springs in aridlands and reviewing an example of a restoration project conducted specifically on springs in the Southwest. In reviewing the current challenges and strategies for spring ecosystem restoration, this paper aims to create greater awareness on the need for developing and implementing sound ecosystem management practices that are based upon effective restoration principles