In this Day in the Life edition, we join Rayna Gleason and Liza Holtz on location in Yakima, WA, as part of an annual vegetation monitoring contract. Rayna, an Ecologist and ISA Arborist, has been working on this site for four years. This was Liza’s first time at the site. As a Landscape Designer and Biologist, she was selected to join Rayna because of her experience with the plant species and ecosystems of Eastern Washington. The pair conducted valuable work while enjoying their time in the field!
Date and Location: June 11-13, 2024, Yakima, WA
Rayna and Liza are working at a wetland mitigation site. Herrera is monitoring the progress of the restoration attempts to create, restore, or enhance existing wetlands at this site. This work is required to offset the negative effect on wetlands by a local gravel mine. Herrera was hired to help restore the wetland ecosystem and perform annual vegetation monitoring.
Weather Conditions: Hot and sunny.
Equipment
- GPS Trimble unit
- 100-foot measuring tapes
- Quadrat frames
- Data sheets
- PPE (personal protective equipment) such as high-visibility vests, mud boots, eye protection, hard hats for certain areas, bug spray and sunscreen
What is Vegetation Monitoring?
Vegetation monitoring is an important aspect of environmental restoration projects. This monitoring involved identifying plant species, assessing their percentage of coverage, and evaluating their health. The process begins with locating specific transects using a GPS device. Rayna and Liza identified the start and end points of each transect and then laid a measuring tape between them. At designated intervals along this tape, they examined and recorded the vegetation present.
They recorded how much of the quadrat area was covered by each plant species. They found lots of cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), an invasive grass species, along with other invasive and native plants. This detailed analysis informs the restoration efforts, guiding decisions on which plants to introduce or remove in coming years.
Challenges in the Field
Fieldwork at the mitigation site can be challenging. The site’s transformation into a more functional wetland has made site access increasingly difficult over the years. Areas that were once easily accessible are now inundated in water, requiring Rayna and Liza to wade through water.
Over time, some transect markers have deteriorated or disappeared, complicating the task of locating specific study areas. This requires a combination of problem-solving skills and perseverance, often involving cross-referencing old photos to estimate locations.
Dog ticks that can carry Rocky Mountain Fever pose another significant challenge. Rayna shared a previous incident where she found herself covered in 12 ticks, emphasizing the importance of using Deet and wearing protective clothing. The harsh sun and high temperatures in the high desert environment requires sun protection and lots of hydration.
Rayna emphasized the importance of preparation and coordination beforehand, and the importance of checking in with field mates to make sure everyone is hydrated, not too hot, and have had enough to eat to ensure safety in the field.
The Importance of Adaptability
Adaptability is a vital quality for anyone engaged in field work. Both Rayna and Liza highlighted the need to adjust to unexpected conditions and navigate the physical demands of the work. The ability to work efficiently and safely in varied and often harsh environments is essential. They also stressed the importance of having a strong knowledge of local flora, particularly the unique plant communities in high desert ecosystems to help things move smoothly.
Rayna and Liza shared the same challenges while vegetation monitoring, but they stayed positive and enjoyed their time together. In their down time, they explored the town of Yakima, including staying in a historic carriage house, enjoying meals at Cowiche Canyon and Spice, and learning about ghosts of their historic downtown!
Impact of the Work
The vegetation monitoring at this site is part of a broader effort to mitigate environmental damage caused by past mining operations. The data collected by Rayna and Liza informs the mine’s management practices, guiding them towards more effective restoration strategies. This includes recommendations for regrading wetlands, introducing new plant species, and improving overall habitat functionality.
Despite the challenges, Rayna and Liza’s work contributes significantly to the long-term success of the restoration project. Their dedication ensures that the site gradually meets the performance standards set by regulatory agencies, promoting healthier ecosystems and more resilient landscapes.
