Spatial and Temporal Changes in Tree Islands of the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Response to Altered Hydrologies

Brandt, Laura and Kitchens, Wiley M. (1998) Spatial and Temporal Changes in Tree Islands of the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Response to Altered Hydrologies. Gainesville, FL, Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Florida,

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Abstract

Loxahatchee can be grouped into three zones according to the patterns of change of tree islands observed from 1950 to 1991. 1 ) the edge of the refuge adjacent to the canals, 2) the eastern interior of the refuge, and 3) the western interior of the refuge. The general trend is for tree islands Along the edge of the refuge to have decreased in size, number, and percent cover, while those on the interior increased in size, nunber, and percent cover. Results from this study illustrate the importance of flow magnitude as well as hydroperiod and depth in stucturing patterns of tree islands within this peat wetland. Restoration of historic hydroperiods and depths without historic flow patterns may not be sufficient to restore or maintain the historic pattern and function of the system. (60 pages)

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