Biology ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

Riparian areas exist at the aquatic-terrestrial interface and provide disproportionate ecosystem services, yet multiple stressors have degraded these zones globally. Stream restoration seeks to reverse degradation, but rigorous evaluation of treatment effectiveness remains limited. I conducted a before-after-control-impact (BACI) study in the southern Rocky Mountains to evaluate two stream restoration treatments—beaver dam analogs (BDAs) and plug-and-ponds (P&Ps)—across three dimensions of riparian ecosystem response. Using Bayesian analysis, I quantified treatment effects on functional diversity and composition of riparian plant communities. Using generalized linear mixed models, I evaluated restoration effects on riparian arthropod abundance, richness and guild composition across lateral gradients and vegetation conditions. Using stable isotope analysis, I assessed changes in emergent insect export, aquatic diet contributions, isotopic niche overlap, and biological stream width. Results demonstrate that BDAs and P&Ps can effectively recover critical structure and function in degraded riparian ecosystems.

Project Sponsors

USDA Forest Service

Language

English

Keywords

beaver dam analogs, plug-and-pond, before-after-control-impact, stable isotope analysis, ecological subsidies

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Biology

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

UNM Biology Department

First Committee Member (Chair)

Thomas Turner

Second Committee Member

Seth Newsome

Third Committee Member

Marcy Litvak

Fourth Committee Member

Ellen Wohl

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