Developing a Riparian Restoration Plan for the Simon Canyon River Tract Area of Critical Environmental Concern

In the arid southwest, riparian areas are rare and valuable ecosystems. Exotic species such as saltcedar (Tamarix spp. L.) and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) have rapidly spread, threatening these systems\u27 vitality. The dynamic nature of riparian areas complicates generalizations about applicable management techniques. This paper examines currently available treatments for saltcedar and Russian olive removal, reviews rehabilitation methods, analyzes previous treatments, and evaluates current soil, hydrologic and vegetation characteristics of a functioning riparian system in northwest New Mexico. From these findings, best management practices (BMP\u27s) are developed that provide the best suited on-the-ground treatment for this riparian area. Riparian specialists can refer to these BMP\u27s to help narrow the range of possible treatments when planning exotic species abatement treatments