CHAPTER 5: BIOITC SYSTEMS Flashcards
What biotic systems should be documented in the site inventory process?
Location, health, character, and type of existing vegetation
Include as part of the site analysis
What is carrying capacity?
Measure of the type and density of development that can be supported without detrimental effects to society, economy, or environment
It also considers the environment’s capacity to sustain these uses into the future.
Define ecological footprint.
Impact of a person/community or use on the environment, expressed as the amount of land required to sustain their use of natural resources
What are xerophytes?
Plants that require little moisture to survive and are often referred to as ‘drought tolerant’
Examples include plants used in xeriscaping.
What does xeriscaping refer to?
The use of drought tolerant plants in landscape design to reduce water use while providing plant benefits
Many plants used in xeriscaping are native.
What are mesophytes?
Plants that are adapted to neither dry nor wet environments and grow best with moderate water use
What are hydrophytes?
Plants that are adapted to living in aquatic or wetland conditions with a surplus of available water
What is a key reason wetlands are considered fragile ecosystems?
Unnecessary excavation and grading can disrupt groundwater flows, causing irreparable harm
What are some benefits of wetlands?
- Groundwater recharge and discharge
- Sediment stabilization
- Flood attenuation
- Water quality maintenance
- Wildlife habitat
- Climate moderation
- Shoreline protection
How are wetlands defined?
By their hydrology, soils, and the presence of specific vegetation (hydrophytes)
What is the most productive and diverse ecosystem classification according to the US Fish and Wildlife?
Marine (open ocean and its associated coastline)
What is the second most common wetland in the US?
Estuarine (tidal waters of coastal rivers, salty tidal marshes, mangrove swamps, and tidal flats)
What defines a bog?
Found in northern climates, characterized by acidic soils, rich organic material (peat), and diverse vegetation
What distinguishes fens from bogs?
Fens are fed by groundwater and have acidic soils with rich deposits of peat
What is an estuary?
A semi-enclosed coastal body of water connected with the open sea, affected by tidal action and containing brackish water
What characterizes a marsh?
Herbaceous vegetation no taller than 6 feet
What is a swamp?
A type of wetland dominated by woody vegetation
What are specimen trees?
Considerable assets that cannot be replaced and give character to a project site
What should be documented in a tree survey conducted by an arborist?
- Tree location and size
- Tree species
- Tree condition, health, and/or tolerance to potential disturbance
How is climate change affecting wildfires in the western US?
It is resulting in longer fire seasons
What is recommended for areas within 30 feet of a structure in wildfire-prone regions?
They should be free of vegetation or planted with low flammability plants
What are the primary determinants of fire danger in the landscape?
- Existing fuel load
- Weather
- Topography
What is habitat fragmentation?
Broken up patches of habitats that diminish ecosystem function and biodiversity
What are connected areas in habitat fragmentation referred to as?
Corridors
