In the summer of 2002, the University of Wyoming (UW) began a study to determine opportunities and constraints for native plant restoration on the Uncompahgre Plateau. This study is focusing on the flora of the pinyon-juniper and sagebrush ecosystems. Data to be collected include an inventory of plant species and tree age structure at selected sites across the Plateau. The data will be used to determine how the current flora varies across the Plateau, how the flora in disturbed areas differs from the flora of comparatively undisturbed reference areas, and what the seeding gaps are, given these differences. The age structure of woodlands will be evaluated to determine the extent of tree density increases and tree invasions since Euro-American settlement, and to what extent restoration is needed. Data on the potential threat from exotic plants will be used, along with other information, in developing a set of possible restoration goals and seeding needs for the pinyon-juniper and sagebrush ecosystems. Funding: BLM, UW. Completion date: 2005. Principal researchers: Dr. Bill Baker and Doug Shinneman, UW; Peggy Lyon, Colorado Natural Heritage Program.

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