8. Coyote Creek (Upper)
Land Manager: BLM; Burley Field Office/State of Idaho
Legal Location: T 16S R 22E Sections 4, 5 Cassia County
Allotment: #4027 Goose Creek Group; #4134 Robinson Hole
Dominant Plant Community Type: Sagebrush-Juniper
Impacts: Cumulative livestock impacts to Coyote Creek east of the Upper Stock Road have altered the physical features of the upper portion of this intermittent stream and its riparian zone. Livestock grazing has led to loss of the riparian structure, loss of riparian regeneration, and loss of the riparian understory. Remnant riparian vegetation has been heavily impacted. The riparian greenline is being replaced by non-riparian species. Trampling has caused channel widening, loss of thermal capabilities, and loss of original channel features.
Recommendations: It is recommended that livestock be withdrawn from this location. Significant riparian recovery (dependent on regenerative capability) and bank stabilization would require a minimum time period of 3-6 years. Willow and other riparian shrubs need to achieve a height of 6 feet or more before exposure to livestock utilization can be tolerated for even short-duration grazing.
List of Figures:
1. Loss of riparian structure, impacts to channel and understory.
2. Loss of vegetation, trampling, erosion, channel widening.
