Science to Action: Upland

The Upland Ecosystem Science to Action establishes a forward-looking vision for near- and long-term research that improves future outcomes, promotes resilience, protects resources, adapts to change, and enhances ecological and community sustainability. The members of the Upland Science Team conducted a synthesis of Lake Tahoe upland ecosystem research investments to inform and shape the plan components outlined below.

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Three priority issues for future research and monitoring investment include: 

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1)    FORESTS AND FIRE
Forest health and fire dynamics are a primary concern in the Lake Tahoe basin. They have a significant influence on nearly every aspect of environmental quality. An improved understanding of forest health and fire dynamics is needed to enable managers to successfully respond to the challenge of future forest resilience and sustainability.

2)    TERRESTRIAL AND AQUATIC LINKAGES
Terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are highly intertwined. Forest management activities affect forest hydrology, water availability, and downslope aquatic ecosystems. An improved understanding of these linkages is needed to successfully co-manage terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems  across the basin.

3)    BIOLOGICAL INTEGRITY
Basic data on the occurrence, abundance, and distribution of plants and animals are fundamental to understanding and predicting biodiversity risks and vulnerabilities. An improved understanding of current distributions and anticipated future climate responses is needed to enable managers to design effective persistence and adaptation strategies in response to climate change.