Assessment of aspen ecosystems on public lands for the 21st century

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Joint efforts are needed in order to help the BLM effectively address issues related to aspen communities in the West and to facilitate and coordinate research and management of aspen ecosystems for the benefit of managers, researchers, the public and other entities. Participation consisting of a network of active aspen scientists and land managers will tap expertise to ensure that the most appropriate scientists are directed to aspen issues as they emerge at the ground level. Quaking aspen Populus tremuloides is known throughout the West as an icon of mountain scenery and among managers and scientists, aspen is revered for its resource value and important contribution to regional biodiversity. Recent documentation of cover loss and sudden decline of stands has raised concern about the future of aspen on the landscape and values associated with these communities. Management practices and recent drought are thought to have contributed to declines. However, much is still unknown about aspen systems and, in turn, appropriate management to sustain these communities. Quaking aspen cover is found predominantly on federally managed lands in the western United States. Benefits of this project include establishing a framework and vehicle for cooperative and collaborative efforts involving managers, researchers, the public and other entities regarding aspen research, inventory, management, and restoration. Additionally, this supports management on areas elevated through the Eco Regional Assessment Sub Assessment process. This process will guide BLM in restoring and maintaining aspen communities in concert with other renewable and non renewable resource values and opportunities. Over the course of 5 years, this partnership would enable BLM to gain a firm understanding concernin

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