15. Spring Creek, Unnamed Tributary

Land Manager: BLM, Burley Field Office
Legal Location: T 15S R 22E Sections 28, 32, 33 Cassia County

Dominant Plant Community Type: Sagebrush-Juniper

Impacts: Cumulative livestock impacts to this small drainage include loss of riparian structure and understory, down-cutting, and loss of stream flow. Surface water now emerges in only a few isolated sections of this intermittent stream. Trampling has caused loss of channel, and channel widening in the past. The minimal amount of water limits some of the potential impacts; most impacts have come from vegetation utilization and animals seeking shade. There is one small section of dense, old-growth riparian trees and shrubs that has undergone grazing impacts and loss of regeneration. However, this small area is still reasonably intact and serves as nesting sites for migratory birds.

Recommendations: It is recommended that livestock be rested from this area until significant riparian and understory recovery has been achieved. Without establishment of saplings, the older growth will continue to die unreplaced. A return of healthy riparian cover to the drainage would be extremely valuable for wildlife species, particularly birds. Significant riparian recovery (dependent on regenerative capability) would require a minimum time period of 3-6 years. Willows and other riparian shrubs need to achieve 6 or more feet in height in order to withstand short duration grazing impacts.

                    1. Loss of stream flow; loss of riparian regeneration.