Technician Report – Tuesday, Sept 14

In July, our technician team ventured into Hollyhock Flats to conduct a plant survey. The goal was to understand the current plant community structures throughout the saltmarsh. This data can be used for restoration efforts at Kus-kus-sum. We also learned about invasive plant presence and range within Hollyhock for future removal efforts.

The survey was prepared by laying out transects in Avenza maps. Following these lines the technician team placed quadrats every 5 meters. Plant species and their percent cover were recorded within the 1 meter squared quadrats. We were able to see the transition from upland plants, to saltmarsh, to intertidal plant communities. 

 Salt marsh plant communities are unique ecosystems with culturally significant species. Small camas and rice root were found within Hollyhock Flats. Historically, these plants were utilized by coastal First Nations and often cultivated in estuary gardens. Invasive species like reed canary grass spread quickly and can reduce the distribution of these important plants.