Research Grants - Awarded grants

2007 Research Grants

The Mazamas Research Committee announced the recipients of its 2007 research grants in June of 2007. The grants are awarded annually for scientific studies promoting wilderness ecology, mountain travel, and safety in the outdoors. This year’s grants total $13,500. The eight recipients were selected from among 51 proposals, up from 33 submitted last year. The committee funded three Standard, three Graduate Student, and two Youth Grant proposals.

2007 Standard Research Grant Recipients

Andrew Fountain, professor of Geology and Geography at Portland State University

Awarded: $3,200

Dr. Fountain proposes to acquire new aerial photographs of the Oregon Cascades to compare with similar photos funded by the Mazamas in the 1930s, ‘40s, and ‘50s. He wants to quantify glacier change in an investigation of the effects of global warming.

Ronald Reuter, Assistant Professor of Natural Resources at Oregon State University

Awarded: $2,500

Mr. Reuter proposes to map the distribution of invasive weeds along a 50-mile section of the Paciifc Crest Trail in the Three Sisters Wilderness and to “investigate the relationship between recreational use patterns and weed distribution.”

David Wallin, Professor of Environmental Sciences at Western Washington University

Awarded: $2,400

Mr. Wallin proposes to use DNA fingerprinting to identify the genetic health of Washington’s mountain goat populations, which have suffered a 70 percent decline since 1961.

2007 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

Jeff Phillipe, MS student in Water Resources at Oregon State
University

Awarded: $1,500

Mr. Phillipe proposes to measure the contribution of glacial melt water to the Middle Fork and West Fork of Hood River and to anticipate future contributions based on known and projected glacial retreat.

Erich Peitzsch, MS student in Earth Sciences at Montana State
University

Awarded: $1,500

Mr. Peitzsch proposes to study wet slab avalanches in the Bridger Range of SW Montana and in Glacier National Park.

Jared Treser, MS student in Resource Management at Central Washington University

Awarded: $1,400

Mr. Treser proposes to correlate the changes in aerial extent since 1900 of all 12 glaciers on Mt. Adams with temperature and precipitation changes over the same period.

2007 Youth Grant Recipients

Ilana Rembelinsky, teacher at Summa Magnet Academy in Beaverton, Oregon

Awarded: $500

Ms. Rembelinsky proposes to have 6th–8th grade students research the energy and carbon footprints of consumer products. Students will develop plans to reduce these footprints, and to help the school and community reduce waste.

Alisha Hanson, teacher at Gates Elementary School in Gates, Oregon

Awarded: $500

Ms. Hanson proposes to restore and expand a nature trail on school property.

2006 Research Grants

2006 Standard Research Grant Recipients

Did Magma Erupt From Mount Baker’s Sherman Crater in the 19th Century?

David Tucker, M.S., Western Washington University; Kevin Scott, Ph. D., U. S. Geological Survey (retired emeritus)

Awarded $3,475

Mount Baker is one of just two Cascades volcanoes, along with Mount St. Helens, considered active. This study proposes to investigate, for the first time, 19th Century ash deposits erupted from Mt Baker to help determine how active Mount Baker is likely to be in the future, and provide insights into the size and style of future eruptions.

2006 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

Advancing Avalanche Forecasting with Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing

Lora Koenig, University of Washington, Department of Earth and Space Sciences

Awarded $1,500

In Northwest states, avalanches take the lives of more people than any other natural hazard. The present project will extend an already useful prediction method, the Snow Slope Stability model, to more accurately predict avalanches in specific locales.

A Holocene Environmental History from the North Cascades Mountains, Washington, based on Pollen, Charcoal, and Macrofossils in Sediments of Ridley Lake

Alecia Spooner, University of Washington, Department of Earth and Space Sciences

Awarded $1,466.31

This project will examine core sediments from a North Cascades lake to understand, from detailed sediment records, how past plant communities responded to shifting climatic conditions in the past. It will add to our knowledge about what to expect in such ecosystems should global warming continue into the near and distant future.

Quantitative Photogrammetric Analysis of the Current Dome-building Eruption at Mount St. Helens, Washington

Angela Diefenbach, Western Washington University, Department of Geology

Awarded $1,500

The present project will add land-based oblique photogrammetry to track lava dome growth and hopes to add to our understanding of the processes underlying deformation and future volcanic eruptions. Successful application of this technique can provide tests for future monitoring of volcanic activity in other hot spots around the globe.

Using GPS to Characterize Surface Deformation over a 20-year Period on an Active Volcano: Mt. Baker, Washington

Brendan Hodge, Western Washington University, Department of Geology

Awarded $1,590

A 2004 limited analysis determined that recent degassing and subsidence have occurred at Mt. Baker, raising the possibility of continued volcanic activity in the region. This proposal will deploy GPS geodetic survey methods to measure surface deformation, thus allowing identification of any current volcanic activity and aiding in the prediction of any future eruptive activity.

Genetic Evidence for Adaptive Differentiation in Dam Isolated Populations of Steelhead/Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss

Suzanne Graham, University of Washington, Department of Biology

Awarded $1,500

In 2008, the Elwha River Dam will be removed in an effort to restore some natural balance to this Olympic Mountain watershed. The present study will employ genetic marker tracing to identify whether two salmon subpopulations of the same species, separated for a century, differ genetically. Since dam removals have been proposed for a number of different sites throughout the country, information on the effects of such breaching will be of importance in planning how and when to destroy these dams.

2006 Youth Grant Recipients

none awarded in 2006

2005 Research Grants

2005 Standard Research Grant Recipients

Microbial Diversity and ecology of Extremophiles in Hydrothermal Environments of Cold Areas

Dr. Robert Anitori, Australian Centre for Astrobiology, Macquarie Univ., Sydney, Australia

Awarded $3,500

In 2004 Mazamas members Tom Bennett and Steve Boyer assisted these researchers in gathering microbial specimens and soil samples from the fumaroles on Mt Hood. Very little is known about the microbial ecology of the hot acidic soils on Mt Hood. This research may identify unique and exotic bacteria with valuable characteristics. Preliminary data from DNA analysis of specimens obtained in 2004 suggest there are previously unknown species of bacteria at these sites on Mt Hood.

2005 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

Logging Induced Changes to Headwater Invertebrate Communities in Moist and Dry Ecoregions of the North Cascade Range

Robert Bruce Medhurst, University of Alaska, Fairbanks AK

Awarded $1,200

There are substantial downstream differences in the effects of logging on drifting bottom dwelling (benthic) invertebrates in dry and moist eco-regions. This study examines a watershed in the North Cascades to determine the impact of logging on food resources that “leak” from the upstream processing of organic materiel by benthic invertebrates.

The Role of Species Interactions in the Colonization of a Late Successional Plan Species, Vaccinium membranaceum

Suann Yang, Washington State University, Pullman WA

Awarded $1,400

Recolonization by this huckleberry species, in areas disturbed by the 1980 Mt St. Helens eruption depends on multiple species interactions. Coyote scat contains large numbers of seeds and may be an important factor in seed dispersal. Differential predation by invertebrates of the Vaccinium seed present in coyote scat and bird droppings will be studied in the Mt St. Helens environment.

The Flow and Mass Wastage of Eliot Glacier, Mt Hood, Oregon

Keith Jackson, Portland State University, Portland OR

Awarded $1,280

In the 1920s The Mazamas did the initial surveys of the Eliot Glacier. Using surface measuring techniques and ground penetrating radar, this study will quantify and update information gathered in the past including annual movement, ablation and topography changes in the glacier.

Seismic Investigations into the Velocity Structure, Earthquake Character and Site Response of Mount St. Helens, Washington

Weston Thelen, University of Washington, Seattle WA

Awarded $1,500

In late August 2005 the USGS plans a series of “calibration explosions” around Mt. St. Helens using 100 lb charges. Using an array of seismic sensors this researcher will gather data that may allow more precise location of earthquakes beneath Mt St Helens.

A Tale of Three Sisters: Reconstruction of Latest Quaternary Glacial History at Three Sisters Oregon

Shaun Marcott, Portland State University, Portland OR

Awarded $1,180

This research will produce a geologic location map of all the latest Pleistocene and Holocene moraines on the eastern side of the Three Sisters.

2005 Youth Grant Recipients

Ackerman Middle School Outdoor Education and Hiking Club

Wendy Gassaway, Ackerman Middle School, Canby, OR

Awarded $1,000

This club for middle school children, many of whom are first generation Mexican immigrants, seeks to foster appreciation of Oregon’s forests and mountains. The high point of the club’s activities will be a weekend at the Mazama Lodge where adult advisors will set up “learning centers” on topics such as navigation, botanic art, environmental issues and “next step” activities such as backpacking and climbing.

2004 Research Grants

2004 Standard Research Grant Recipients

Fish Bearing Estuarine to Marine Biostromal Devonian Strata at Borah Peak, Lost River Range, East-Central Idaho

George Grader Ph.D., University of Idaho , Dept. of Geological Sciences

Awarded $2,100

The proposed project will study Middle Devonian strata at elevations between 9000 and 11,000 feet at Borah Peak, a major Idaho landmark in the Lost River Range. The study will concentrate on about 200 m of key units that contain two episodes of channelization and accumulation of estuarine deposits containing rare phosphatic boney fish material. Species identification and dating of these spectacular creatures will be carried out by my field associate, paleontologist Dr. David Elliott. The stratigraphic context of these fossil beds will be studied by me. Depositional stacking patterns should closely compare with recent studies of stratigraphic geometries produced during global greenhouse climate modes (possibly containing subtle orbital-eustatic signals). The results of this project will test preliminary correlations of regional depositional sequences (Grader, 1998; Grader and Dehler, 1999).

Evolutionary and ecological forces tied ancient Devonian fishes to freshwater. Their association with brackish water depositional environments and peritidal flats is brilliant to view in outcrop. The fauna and flora of these transitional marine paleovalleys are rarely preserved and represent veritable ecological oases against more commonly occurring restricted marine environments. Dark biostromal units also occur and will also be studied. Concentrated lenses of fish fossils at Borah Peak (potentially containing new endemic species), and good lateral facies controls allow for a compelling paleontologic, sedimentologic and stratigraphic investigation.

Variables Contributing to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Daryl Parker Ph.D. and Dale Wagner Ph.D., California State University-Sacramento

Awarded $1,092

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a malady characterized by such symptoms as headache, nausea, and dizziness. It is thought to be a self-imposed syndrome brought on by gaining altitude too quickly without allowing adequate time to acclimatize; however, the pathophysiology of AMS and the factors that contribute the most to the onset of this syndrome are not clearly understood. No one is immune to AMS, and many hikers, trekkers, and climbers are affected. The aim of this study is to determine the percentage people reaching an altitude of 4418 m (14,494’) that experience AMS and identify which variables significantly contribute to the onset of this condition. Data will be collected over a 5-6 day period on the summit of Mt. Whitney. This location is likely to produce a diverse sample that varies greatly in age, physical characteristics, mountaineering experience, and previous altitude exposure.

Individuals reaching the summit will give a self-report of their physical characteristics (age, gender, height, weight, and smoking status), altitude history (altitude of residence, previous altitude illness, prior acclimatization, and training), and an account of their ascent (elapsed time and liquid and medication consumed). Additionally, pulse and arterial oxygen saturation will be measured. The self-report and measured data will be statistically analyzed to determine which variables contributed significantly to AMS as measured by the Lake Louise scale. By identifying which variables are most strongly associated with AMS, preventative steps may be taken to reduce these risk factors and lessen the incidence of AMS in the future.

2004 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

Postglacial Vegetation and Fire History from the Biologically Diverse Klamath Mountains of Southwestern Oregon and Northwestern California

Christy Briles Department of Geography, University of Oregon

Awarded $1,400

Fire has become an important issue in the Klamath Mountains after the “Biscuit Fire” raged through much of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness in the summer of 2002. Burning nearly 500,000 acres, the “Biscuit Fire” left forest managers wondering if the fire was unprecedented, if it resulted from years of fire suppression, and if climate change was at all responsible. Currently, debates on post-fire “salvage” logging in the Klamath forests revolve around how forests should be managed after a fire. However, there is little scientific research to address many fire management issues, especially since most historical information about fire, vegetation, and climate extends back to the time of Euro-American settlement, a period of significant land conversion and fire suppression. Future management decisions will ultimately affect recreational opportunities, aesthetics, accessibility, and the quality of enjoyment in the Klamath region. Answers to the questions posed by managers require long records of fire and vegetation history within the Klamath Mountains so that current conflagration can be evaluated in light of prehistoric conditions.

The following study proposes to reconstruct the fire and vegetation history from the Klamath region to: First, provide physical evidence that forest managers can use as “a point of reference” when developing plans for modern forest health and recreation. Second, provide valuable information on the ecological response of biologically diverse ecosystems to climate changes occurring on multiple time scales. Third, aid in our understanding of forest development and present-day biological diversity. Fourth, provide natural history information that can be used to inform the general public about a popular recreation destination.

Wilderness Injuries: Predictors of Montana Outfitters’ Preparedness and Injury Prevention Behaviors

Linda Sobeck, Montana State University

Awarded $1,500

Adventure and wilderness recreation frequently involves facilitation by outfitters as leaders of outdoor expeditions. Professional outfitters are involved in all aspects of hunting and fishing, which can include backpacking, hiking, camping, horseback riding, and boating. Understanding the injury prevention and first aid knowledge that outfitters have and use in the wilderness is one of many steps in developing statewide initiatives to decrease unintentional injury in Montana.

Investigations of Wet Snow Stability in the Intermountain Climate Region

Simon Trautman, Department of Earth Sciences, Montana State University

Awarded $1,500

The spatial and temporal relationships of warming and infiltration and their effects on material processes of the snowpack need to be better understood in order to forecast wet-snow avalanches. To date, most recent wet snow avalanche research has been conducted in maritime climate zones in conjunction with rain-on-snow events. Research needs to be conducted in the intermountain climate zone in order to document and understand wet snow processes caused by melt events in a cold snowpack. Climbers and skiers have long recognized the importance warming trends (particularly when temperatures do not drop sufficiently to freeze during the night) can have on snowpack stability. Recent increases in backcountry recreation have placed added pressure on highway departments, and ski areas, as well as Federal and privately funded avalanche centers to provide detailed and accurate assessments of current avalanche related dangers in the region.

2004 Youth Grant Recipients

none awarded in 2004

2003 Research Grants

2003 Standard Research Grant Recipients

Community Ecology and Biogegraphy of High Elevation Small Mammal Faunas: Conservation priorities based on community dynamics and prevalence of zoonotic disease

Luis A. Ruedas, Department of Biology and Museum of Vertebrate Biology, Portland State University

Awarded $3,141

As human impact on natural resources increase there is also an increased need for conservation. However management decisions are often based upon conflicting interests and driven by many factors including economic ones. If the hypothesis of Dr. Luis A. Ruedas is correct, he will show that the well-being of humans is directly dependent on conservation and maintaining biodiversity. Dr. Ruedas would like to prove that there is an inverse relationship between biodiversity and the risk of human disease. When biodiversity is lost, small mammal disease can increase hence increasing the risk for human disease transmission. Dr. Ruedas has already established that the loss of biodiversity at five Portland parks has caused an increase in small mammal disease prevalence - specifically hantaviruses. Hantaviruses are carried by small mammals and may infect humans with Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. In Oregon five cases of Hantavirus have resulted in three deaths. The funded proposal will expand Dr. Ruedas’ work into the Mount Hood and Deschutes National Forest. If successful this work can have a significant impact on habitat preservation and/or restoration.

The Effects of Fuel-Reduction Logging on Bat Activity

Burr J. Betts, Dept of Biology, Eastern Oregon University

Awarded $760

Increases in fuel loads in national forests have recently caused bad fire seasons. As a result, forest managers are looking for ways to reduce the fuel loads of their forests by removing standing and down dead wood. Some techniques can reduce the available fuel while having the least effect on wildlife. Bats use snags and dead wood for their nests and as a source of their insect diet. Bats, which benefit the forest by their consumption of insect pests, may be amongst the animals most affected by the removal of standing and dead wood. The Forest Service is using two different treatments to remove fuel. In his proposal, Dr. Burr J. Betts will determine the immediate effect of logging and fuel removal on bat activity. Dr. Betts has already collected data on bat activity prior to any fuel reduction. Dr. Betts will continue data collection at 5 and 10 years post-treatment to determine the long term changes in activity. The results of this study can then aid forest managers as they make management decisions.

2006 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

Harvested Forest as an Ecological Trap for Olive-sided Flycatcher (Contopus borealis)

Bruce A. Robertson, Organismal Biology and Ecology - Division of Biological Science, University of Montana

Awarded $1,490

For bird populations, an ecological trap is an area that, on the basis of physical or vegetation characteristics, appears to be suitable habitat for nesting, but due to some additional factor (e.g., brood parastism, predation, pesticide use, human disturbance), results in a reduced reproductive success.” … “ Paradoxically, among coniferous forest birds in the western United States, Olive-sided Flycatcher has the highest rate of decline (3.7% per year) between 1968 and 2000 according to the Breeding Bird Survey”. This research project will “… test the hypothesis that harvested coniferous forests in the northern Rockies act as ecological traps for the Olive-sided Flycatcher by answering the following questions: (1) Which is preferred by the Olive-sided Flycatcher - burned or harvested conifer forest? (2) Is the habitat preference directly related to reproductive success, as measured by nesting success? (3) Does predation or food limitation account for differential reproductive success between the two vegetation types?

Recent Glacier Fluctuations on Mount Adams, Washington: Determining the Effects of Decadal Climate Variations on Regional Glacier Systems

Michael A. O’Neal, Quaternary Research Center, University of Washington

Awarded $1,609

Climactic variations influence the mass balance of glaciers and ultimately affect their length. Currently knowledge of the glacial fluctuations in the Cascade Range of Washington and Northern Oregon is based upon data from isolated sections of a few dozen glaciers. There exists a lack of regional, integrated data on the effect of climate on glacial fluctuations. Michael A. O’Neal proposes to conduct mapping and lichenometric dating of moraines on Mount Adams while integrating new glacier fluctuations with other regional data. Mr. O’Neal hopes to then determine how the glaciers have responded to general warming patterns since the Little Ice Age. Mr. O’Neal also expects the results to provide insight into regional climate variations and stimulate interest into the effects of short-term climate variability on alpine ecosystems.

Connectivity in a Heterogeneous Landscape: the Genetics and Population Dynamics of Olympic Marmots

Suzanne Cox Griffin, Wildlife Biology Program, School of Forestry, University of Montana

Awarded $1,500

This research project focusing on Olympic marmots “… will provide an empirical way to evaluate the effects of landscape on realized movement between populations for many species in which this has not previously been possible. This relates directly to central ecology, and genetics. The simulation model, itself, will allow investigation of a variety of theoretical and practical questions about gene flow and movement in metapopulations and provide a mechanism for testing the efficacy of differential metrics of gene flow, under different rates of simulated connectivity, different mating systems, and evolution. This research will provide information of immediate and future conservation value to the Olympic marmot and other species of Marmota.

Black Bear Distribution Patterns In A Montane Temperate Forest, Olympic National Park, Washington

Kimberly A. Stager, Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, University of Idaho

Awarded $1,500

The Department of Interior proposes to remove two dams to fully restore the Elwha River ecosystem and native anadromous fisheries. With the anticipated increase of salmon and steelhead runs, the black bear presence will be affected. This study will provide baseline information by which to assess the long-term ecological effects of salmon restoration on park bear populations and distribution. The study will also help Olympic NP wildlife managers reduce seasonal bear/human conflicts in the Elwha backcountry and will set the stage for establishment of a long-term black bear monitoring program.

2003 Youth Grant Recipients

none awarded in 2003

2002 Research Grants

2002 Standard Research Grant Recipients

The Glaciers of Mt. Hood, Oregon: Historic Fluctuations and Relationship to Climate

Karl Liliquist, Ph.D, Geography and Land Studies Department and Resource Management Program, Central Washington University Ellensburg, Washington

Awarded $3,431

Glaciers are important tools for determining the direction, frequency and magnitude of past climate change. The overall objective of this research is to better understand Mt. Hood’s glacier fluctuations and their relationship to climate. This research proposes to determine changes in the Coe, Eliot, Ladd, Newton Clark and White River glaciers to determine changes in their termini during the past century and relate these fluctuations to historic climate patterns. To do so, the researcher will locate and obtain historical documents, identify previous terminus positions, document glacier change over time, and relate glacier fluctuations to climate patterns. It is expected that these glaciers retreated in recent years and that these fluctuations have mirrored temperature and precipitation accumulations over this period of time. The results of this project will enhance the scientific understanding of past and future northwest climate changes, provide educational opportunities for Pacific Northwest teachers and students, and develop an awareness of glacier-based environmental change in the general public.

The Origin of Northwest Mountain Floras: Phylogeography of the Synthyris missuilca Complex

Larry Hufford, Ph.D. Michael S. Webster, Ph.D. School of Biological Sciences Washington State University Pullman, Washington

Awarded $1,800

Phylogeography explores the geography of genetic variation among populations to infer evolutionary relationships within them. This project will examine the evolutionary history of the Synthyris rnissurica complex in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest. It will test$ hypotheses on refuges that have been important in the radiation of mountain floras following the Pleistocene glaciations and will explore the evolution of elevational differences. This research will have applications to the development of conservation strategies, especially those that can mitigate the consequences of human disturbance. Notably, one member of the S. missurica complex, subspecies stellata, is of conservation concern because of its narrow distribution in the Columbia Gorge, an area of intense recreational use. This research may differentiate subspecies of this complex and may provide data which will bear on taxonomic recognition and potential management plans to provide for the conservation of these flora.

2002 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

The Effects of Large Density Changes on Snow Microstructure

Ethan M. Greene, Department of Earth Resources Colorado State University Fort Collins, Colorado

Awarded $3,500

Most avalanche fatalities in the United States involve backeountry recreational users and many of those killed are climbers. The causes of avalanches vary, but both faceted snow grains and very dense snow layers are often associated with difficult-to-predict slab avalanches. Researchers have proposed theories about why persistently weak layers form near large density changes, but empirical explorations have not yet been undertaken. To better understand how the presence of a large density change affects snow microstructure, a series of cold laboratory experiments will be undertaken. These will consist of inducing a vertically oriented temperature gradient through a natural snow sample that contains an artificial ice crust. After a period of weeks, surface sections on the snow microstructure will be analyzed using microscopy and sterological techniques. Results from this research will improve our understanding of these snow pack layers and our ability to predict the avalanches associated with them.

Edaphic Properties and the Distribution of the Northwest Riparian Invader Rubus discolor (Himalayan blackberry)

Joshua S. Caplan, Environmental Sciences and Resources Program Portland State University Portland, Oregon

Awarded: $N/A

The widespread proliferation of Rubus discolor (Himalayan blackberry) in streamside areas across Western Oregon constitutes a major plant invasion. Such invasions may be due to an interplay between the plant’s life history traits and the susceptibility of the invaded habitat. Fllant invasion can affect ecosystem -level properties; in some cases invasive species are better adapted to the conditions they cause, giving them still greater advantages and amplifying the magnitude of the invasion. The aim of the present research is to determine the causes of R. discolor’s proliferation in Western Oregon. The study will gather quantitative data on the ranges of potentially limiting or facilitating resources in order to determine the factors influencing the spread of this invasive species. This study will also use these resource data to model the spread of R. discolor. This phase of the project may include aerial photographs and geographic information systems and will investigate the relationships between plant physiology and soil chemistry with respect to their role in invasion. A number of statistical techniques will be employed to determine to what degree factors involved in soil nutrients can explain R. discolor’s distribution and to what extent anthropogenic disturbances may contribute to the invasiveness of this species.

2002 Youth Grant Recipients

After School Program, Harriet Tubman Middle School

Rachel Felice, Graduate Student Center for Science Education Portland State University Portland, Oregon, and Theresa Egan, Teacher Harriet Tubman Middle School Portland, Oregon

Awarded $913

This project will create an after-school program involving 10 to 12 middle school students in outdoor explorations of their surroundings. Harriet Tubman Middle School serves students of inner Northeast/North Portland communities, many of whom have limited access to the outdoors and to wilderness areas. The activities will include hiking, snowshoeing, rock climbing, biking, plant identification, outdoor ethics, team building, canoeing, orienteering and animal tracking. Hopefully, this project will include work in the community, including school beautification, trail maintenance, water quality testing, and field monitoring. This program hopes to create challenges for youth both emotionally and physically, build leadership, problem solving and cooperation skills, and create lasting relationships between adults and students while fostering a connection between students and the natural world.

Beaverton High School EcoClub , Restoration of Summercrest Park

Kathryn Moore, Co-President, Beaverton High School EcoClub Beaverton, Oregon

Awarded $700

The students of Beaverton High School EcoClub propose to continue work on restoration of Summercrest Park, a strip of neglected land that runs along a portion of Johnson Creek. Their goal is to remove invasive plant species and substitute native species along the creek instead. In particular, the EcoClub plans to remove blackberries and replant a number of native species, including shade species and understory plants. Approximately 30 to 50 participants will be involved. Each of these students will gain first-hand knowledge of a riparian ecosystem in addition to planning, planting, and basic botany skills. Most importantly, the environment itself will benefit from this restoration work. Invasive species upset the entire ecosystem by substituting native species. This project hopes to improve the health of Summercrest Park and Johnson Creek.

Reynolds High School, Natural Resources Academy Beaver Creek Restoration Project

Larry Callister, Reynolds High School, Natural Resources Academy Troutdale, Oregon

Awarded $1,000

The Beaver Creek restoration project is an ongoing effort to maintain and improve trail conditions within the Beaver Creek watershed. Invasive weed eradication, native tree and shrub planting, and habitat restoration will be important in order to restore this riparian environment. Students involved will apply knowledge gained in the classroom to real life experience by assessing current trail habitat and water conditions and devising action plans to make improvements where necessary. Each year over 85 students at the Natural Resources Academy participate in watershed restoration. Participating students have the opportunity to learn by hands-on inquiry employing scientific methods and reinforcing previous knowledge through experience. The community and environment both benefit from the preservation of a beautiful area where biodiversity will continue amongst species, habitat conditions will be improved, hiking trails will be correctly placed and maintained, and the youth of the community will hopefully develop an attachment to the area, thereby ensuring long-term preservation.

2001 Research Grants

2001 Standard Research Grant Recipients

The Biomechanics of Walking Downhill with Trekking Poles

Julianne Abendroth-Smith, Willamette University

Awarded: $2,700

A current project of the Principle Investigator is examining the use of trekking poles on four downhill gradients, in terms of the resultant forces produced at the lower extremity joints. The purpose of the research project is to examine the effects (joint forces, moments, and gait patterns) of walking downhill at different gradients with one or two trekking poles. Specifically, the goal is to identify the gradient at which using two poles become more effective (if at all) and how one pole vs. two poles changes downhill walking patterns. Gender differences are of primary interest, and will be addressed. This information is important for designing equipment and strategies to reduce or eliminate hiking related overuse injuries.

Spatial Analysis and Source Tracing of Fecal Coliform Bacteria in an Alpine Lake Ecosystem

Guy R. Knudsen and Louise-Marie C. Dandurand, University of Idaho

Awarded: $2,818

For the protection of soils and water resources in mountain environments and other natural areas, improved methods are needed to identify and map sources of pollutants. This research focuses on methods to accurately identify sources of fecal coliform bacteria and their spatial distributions in relation to recreational usage in a series of alpine lake basins located in a mountain wilderness area, the Seven Devils Mountains in the Hells Canyon Wilderness of Central Idaho. Spatial patterns of fecal coliform bacteria, in relation to sites of different recreational usage, will be determined and modeled using geostatistics and GIS. This approach will lead to improved management of recreational usage in wilderness areas through accurate prediction, identification, and mapping of microbial contaminant sources.

The Effect of Supra-Glacial Debris on the Melting of Ice at Eliot Glacier, Mt. Hood, Oregon

Andrew Fountain, Ph.D., Portland State University and Robert Schlichting, Vancouver School of Arts and Academics

Awarded: $3,300

The terminus of many alpine glaciers is mantled with rocky debris. Thin layers of debris (typically < 5 cm) accelerate glacier melting due to increased solar absorption and heat transfer to the ice. Thick layers (typically > 5 cm) insulate the underlying ice and reduce melting. Understanding the dynamics of debris-covered ice is gaining interest because of the response of these systems to global warming and local hydrology, as well as potential for enhancing understanding of similar systems in the Dry Valleys of Antarctica and on Mars. Eliot Glacier, on Mt. Hood, has a mantle of debris on its terminus and is in an ideal location to study the thermal properties of supra-glacial debris. This study will provide baseline data to evaluate the magnitude and variation of the thermal diffusivity of a debris cover on the melting of the underlying ice.

2001 Graduate Student Research Grant Recipients

Physiology and Ecology of the Northern Saw-whet Owl and Flammulated Owl During Fall Migration in the Pacific Northwest

Sarah L. Hamilton, University of Idaho

Awarded: $1,000

Little information exists about the migration ecology of the two owls that are the focus of this study. Each species will be banded and blood samples taken for comparison of stress levels during breeding and migration.

Exposure of Native Senecio to Cinnabar Moth (Tyria jacobaeae), Introduced for Biological Control of Tansy Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea)

Jason Fuller, Oregon State University

Awarded: $848.50

Plant-feeding insects have been used to successfully control invasive, alien weeds for more than a century. This study will employ sampling methods to study the impact of cinnabar moth, which was released to control tansy ragwort, on native plants.

2001 Youth Grant Recipients

Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Relic Populations of Brewer Spruce (Picea brewerana)

Mary Omberg, Gold Beach High School

Grant: $585

Brewer Spruce is the rarest and least known of the American spruce. Information on genetic diversity will be valuable in preserving small populations of this rare species. The proposed project will conduct DNA analysis of tree tissues to determine genetic variability both within specific populations and from site to site in southwestern Oregon and northern California.

2000 Research Grants

2000 Standard Research Grant Recipients

Understanding Interactions among Winter Recreationists at Marble Mountain, Washington

Jennifer Gilden, Eric T. Jones, Rebecca McLain Institute for Culture & Ecology Portland, OR

Awarded: $3,500

This study uses social research methods to explore the human dimensions of recreational conflicts in the Marble Mountain area. During the past few decades, winter sports have become increasingly popular throughout the Pacific Northwest. Not surprisingly, conflicts have developed when one group’s actions have negatively affected other groups’ experiences. Successful co-management requires an understanding of users’ motivations, expectations, and values, the quality of their interactions, and their level of satisfaction with current management practices. This study will provide a description of problems and opportunities for cooperation, and an indication of users’ satisfaction with current conditions and management practices.

Alpine Glacial Chronology, Paleoclimatic Interpretations, and Erosive Effectiveness of Small Cirque Paleoglaciers, Enchantments Lakes Basin, WA

Eric L. Bilderback, Geology Department, Western Washington University Bellingham, WA

Awarded: $3,000

Alpine glacial deposits provide widespread and sensitive records of both past climatic change and glacial erosive power. Glaciers expand and contract in response to precipitation and, therefore, can be used as Paleoclimatic indicators. With the aid of the time scale provided by AMS-radiocarbon dating of lake sediments and the relatively new technique of paleomagnetic analysis of alpine lake cores, the project will quantify the erosional effects of small cirque glaciers by calculating total glacial sediment production in both moraine and lake systems.

Avalanche Prediction by Spatial Extrapolation of Study Plot Stability -Bridger Range, Montana

Christopher C. Landry, Earth Sciences, Montana State University

Awarded: $3,000

Avalanche forecasters routinely perform in-situ stability tests at safe and accessible study plots selected to approximate the geographic conditions in avalanche starting zones being forecasted. However, snowpack conditions are known to exhibit spatial variations. This study evaluates the spatial distribution of stability within study plots and the spatial relationship between stability at study plots and stability in nearby and distant avalanche terrain. A human forecaster will also predict, prior to the storm, the increment of storm loading which will initiate avalanching in starting zones near each study plot based on the initial set of stability test results from the study plot. The human forecast will be compared to the actual avalanches and the storm loading model’s predicted critical loading thresholds.

A Comparison of Non-Invasive Methods for Monitoring Carnivores in the Pacific Northwest

David A. Tailmon, Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, Kurt Jenkins, U.S. Geological Service Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Olympic Field Station, Port Angeles, WA

Awarded: $2,000

One of the biggest problems in trying to monitor ecosystem health is the difficulty in monitoring carnivores, which occupy a unique position at the top of the food chain. We propose to directly compare three non-invasive methods of monitoring carnivores in the Elwha River ecosystem of Olympic National Park. Specifically, we will use sign surveys (tracks and scats), motion-sensitive cameras, and DNA analysis of feces and hair to index and estimate carnivore diversity and abundance. The results will help guide monitoring efforts of terrestrial carnivore communities throughout the Pacific Northwest as salmon stocks are re-established and ecosystems restored.

Structural Investigations of Faults in the Island Mountain and Isabella Ridge Area, North-Central Washington

Eric Eddlemon, Dept. of Geology, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA

Awarded: $3,000

Much of the uncertainty concerning the tectonic development of western North America centers on discrepancies between interpretations of geologic and paleomagnetic data. Such discrepancies have resulted in two hypotheses for the tectonic development of western North America. Our knowledge of brittle fabrics and microstructures has increased greatly in the past decade. This study will increase our knowledge of north-central Washington geology and lend support to one of the two hypotheses of the tectonic development of this mountainous area of western North America.

2000 Graduate Student Research Recipients, 2000

Demography of Whitebark Pine in the Pacific Northwest: Using a Matapopulation to Examine Decline in Response to Blister Rust Infection

Nicholas Cottone, Biology Department, St. Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, PA

Awarded: $500

Whitebark pine is an important food source for many animal species including squirrels, birds, and bears, so it is critical that we understand the changes that are occurring in whitebark pine communities. The goal of this study is to incorporate demographic data into a stage model using the life history of whitebark pine and four classifications of blister rust infection. Our ultimate goal is to develop a management plan that will allow for stabilization of whitebark pine populations as a result of rigorous sampling and modeling of stochasticity within various whitebark pine communities.

Stakeholder Involvement in Resource Management Decision-Making

Bryan Aptekar, Department of Planning, Public Policy and Management, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR

Awarded: $500

The Pacific Northwest is at a crossroad in the history of resource management. Our region has long faced dueling demands on the land for both preservation and use. The purpose of this study is to compare how Norway and New Zealand have faced similar challenges.

Variation in Desiccation Resistance by Measuring Root Growth Potential, Water Relations’ Characteristics, and Leaf Chlorophyll Fluorescence among Port Orford cedar Genotypes

Jodie M. Sharpe, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Awarded: $500

Port Orford cedar is often a major component of streamside communities. For this study, ~ 30 Port Orford cedar genotypes will be used to study drought tolerance. To determine the pattern of variation of desiccation resistance among study genotypes, planting stock will be exposed to drought during the planting season, late summer, and possibly in conjunction with freezing in mid-winter. Information about variation in tissue water relations, field moisture stress and experimental desiccation as measured by root regeneration potential and leaf chlorophyll fluorescence will be provided to management agencies in order to select or develop drought resistance and disease tolerant stock of the Port Orford cedar.

The Relationship between Tree Establishment Pattern and Positive Feedback at the Alpine Treeline

Kathryn Alftine, Department of Geography, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA

Awarded: $500

The alpine treeline ecotone has received much attention due to its potential sensitivity to climate change. The appropriateness of using alpine treeline as an indicator of the impacts of climate change depends upon our understanding of the processes that determine the location and pattern of treeline. This research project is designed to test the hypothesis that positive feedback - the positive influence that trees have on their immediate environment that establishes more trees - is a significant process in the formation of tree pattern at treeline.

The Ecology of Disturbance: Influences of Flooding Mediated through Abiotic Change, Plant Competition and Trophic Dynamics

Bret Elderd, Department of Environmental Studies, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA

Awarded: $500

This study will examine the linkages between floods and riparian ecology through a variety of approaches. To examine landscape level effects, I will use GIS and chronosequences of aerial photographs to determine differences in riparian community composition in anthropogenically managed rivers and naturally flowing rivers. To examine the community effects, I will conduct both observational and experimental studies in Sierra Nevada Mountains of California on a common riparian species Mimulus guttatus (Common Large-leafed Monkeyflower).

Current Status of the Vegetation in Historic Karuk Cultural Use Sites

Ellen de Rijke, Humboldt State University, Department of Biological Sciences, Arcata, CA

Awarded: $500

This study deals with the current status of the vegetation in cultural sites of the Karuk Indians. It seeks to provide baseline information from which to create a Memorandum of Understanding between Karuk tribe members and the Six Rivers and Klamath National Forest staffs for the management of three Karuk Cultural Management Areas in northern California. The effects of fire suppression on open meadows of several Karuk cultural use sites will be determined by conducting a census of all herbaceous species.

Colonization Limitation in Primary Succession on Glacier Forelands

Chad C. Jones, Department of Botany, University of Washington, Seattle, WA

Awarded: $500

Colonization is a critical process in the development of plant communities following disturbance. This study will examine the factors that limit colonization throughout primary succession on four glacial forelands. Easton, Boulder and Coleman glaciers on Mount Baker and Emmons glacier on Mount Rainier will be the areas of study.

Small Mammal Abundance and Bitterbrush Cover Associated with Different Volumes of Down Wood in Central Oregon

Troy G. Smith, Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Awarded: $500

Down wood is one of the most manageable habitat features in forest systems. Forest Vertebrates utilize down wood for habitat needs including feeding, travel, and refuge. Additionally, on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains, bitterbrush and small mammals are associated with one another. Small mammals forage heavily on bitterbrush seed, caching many seeds in the process, which then experience increased germination rates. However, there is insufficient evidence to support current management policies regarding down wood and bitterbrush management for wildlife habitat. This study will measure and quantify the relationships between down wood volume, small mammal abundance, and antelope bitterbrush cover, on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains in central Oregon. Study plots will possess high, medium, and low down wood volumes. Small mammal abundance and diversity, and bitterbrush cover will be examined in relation to down wood volumes to identify trends. Additionally, these relationships will be examined at stand and microhabitat scales to determine the importance of down wood as small mammal habitat at different scales. The project will be completed by December 2001. Study results will be submitted for publication and presented at professional meetings to provide forest managers with information they can utilize while developing and modifying forest manage policies concerning down wood, small mammals, and bitterbrush.

Travel Scholarship (Dissemination Awarded)

Dendroecology of Pinusponderosa in the Okanogan National Forest, Washington

Elizabeth Kusnierczyk, Saint Joseph’s University, Department of Biology, Philadelphia, PA

Travel Scholarship $750

Conference Abstract:
Category- Plant Ecology: Global Climate change The growth response of Pinuvponderova to climate was assessed at 4 elevations from low-elevation treeline (i.e. steppe-forest ecotone- ~850m) to its high-elevation limit ( ~15OOm’, where it grows in mixed stands with Psuedostuga menziesii on 3 different mountains (twelve sites total), in the Okanogan National Forest, WA. Principal component analysis indicates that the twelve mean site chronologies are similar in most respects (PC I =82%). Growth-climate relationships were determined among mean site chronologies and monthly mean temperatures, and total precipitation in the current and previous hydrologic year, using partial correlation analysis. Growth is negatively correlated with June temperature on all sites. Previous July and September precipitation is positively correlated with growth on the majority of the sites. Growth is also positively correlated with November temperature on the middle, low, and steppe sites. Finally, winter precipitation is positively correlated with the majority of steppe sites. Results suggest that ponderosa pine growth is limited by water availability across its elevation range. Positive correlations with previous September precipitation and November temperature at all but the high elevation sites suggest that carbon stored during the fall is important for growth in the following year. Positive correlations between winter precipitation (i.e., snowpack) may be important in maintaining ponderosa pine in the steppe environment. If climatic change results in warmer and drier conditions, then ponderosa pine will grow more slowly across its elevation range in the eastern Cascades. In contrast, warmer and wetter conditions would result in increased growth, however these conditions may result in decreased growth at low elevation treeline due to decreased snowfall (more rain than snow).