Sam Swenson Rasheda Vereen

Considerable uncertainty about the future

Uncertainty about effects on ecosystems

Climate Change Impacts (J.A. Harris): ◦ Increases in mean temperatures◦ Increases in precipitation◦ Unpredictable weather patterns

Sage bush, Cottonwood, Aspen: ◦ Grows in desert◦ Abundant along rivers and other wet areas

“Native species become less viable under future climate conditions” B. Bradley, Climate Change and plant invasions, p. 1511

Some native species already threatened by local vegetation

Highly efficient in water absorption Long life span (100+ years) Ability to tolerate extreme drought stress Established ecological community dependent on creosote for

shelter/protection Native plants considerably less prepared to tolerate drought

(Domino effect) Bees depend on nectar