Loss of deep-rooted perennial trees and shrubs

Impact

Deep-rooted perennial trees and shrubs play an important role in maintaining soil structural stability and groundwater levels.

Suggested indicator: Deep-root perennials+

Loss of deep-rooted perennial trees and shrubs may be associated with:

Potential associated impacts Suggested indicators+

Changed vegetation condition and composition

Potential for increased weed invasion in some situations 
  • Weed species
  • Weed cover
Reduced quality and quantity of soil organic matter 
  • Soil life
Increased potential for loss of soil nutrients
  • Soil chemistry
Changed potential for soil erosion (increased in some situations, decreased in others)
  • Hillslope erosion
  • Gully erosion
  • Wind erosion

Altered watertable

  • rising watertable may lead to soil salinity and/or sodicity and subsequent decreased vegetation condition

+ Descriptions of indicators (PDF, 76K)* provides a brief description of each indicator including techniques and purpose.

* Requires Adobe Reader

Last updated 7 September 2010

Land Manager's Monitoring Guide