Author: Ernest Hartley, Ph.D. Plant Ecologist

Abstract: This paper will focus on the results obtained from a long-term study of natural plant community recovery following a human trampling experiment in a subalpine dry meadow. The work was conducted at Logan Pass, elevation 6,680 feet (2036 meters) in Glacier National Park, Montana. In treatment plots, a series of trampling intensities were applied in 1967. Subsequent sampling data, at five-year intervals, revealed patterns of plant community change through a 35-year period [1967-2002]. Plant community and individual species responses to the disturbance, and long-term recovery will be reported.

Visitor impact in mountainous nature preserves and in National and Provincial Parks is a growing concern as visitation to these alpine and subalpine areas steadily increases. This study demonstrates the inherent vulnerability of mountain herbaceous plant communities to the inattentive or impulsive passage of visitors. A remarkably long time may be required for the plants to recover in this severe environment of short growing seasons. Heavy trampling, even in one growing season, may require several decades to recover—a significant point, given managers’ requirement to decide what administrative or visitor activities are acceptable in this ecosystem.