Findings for each of the objectives are discussed in the following sections. Tables can be found at the end of the chapter.
Objective 1 - Biological Literature Review
The initial literature review produced a list of Federally and state-listed species of plants and animals that might occur on FLW. The purpose of this list was to guide species investigations to be made during the course of field work (i.e., searches were not limited to the species identified on the preliminary list). Those species for which surveys were conducted are noted in Table 1.
Studies Directed at FLW
Few biological studies were conducted on FLW until recently. Within the last 10 to 15 years, several studies focusing on the biological resources of FLW were completed to help land managers make informed decisions concerning usage of natural resources. Brief summaries of these projects are presented.
Cave Resources of Fort Leonard Wood: An Inventory and Evaluation (Oesch and Oesch 1986). A comprehensive inventory and evaluation of the cave resources of 45 caves. Survey was conducted in 1985-1986.
Floral Inventory of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri (Johnson et al. 1990). A comprehensive plant inventory completed between April and October 1989.
Rare and Endangered Plant Survey of Fort Leonard Wood Military Reservation (Skinner 1991). A systematic search for Federally and state-listed plants. Survey was conducted between May and December 1991.
Revised Rare and Endangered Plant Survey of Fort Leonard Wood Military Reservation (Skinner 1993). This revision of Skinner's 1991 report excludes Section B: Corrections to the Floral Inventory (of FLW).
Wetlands Inventory for Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri (Harland Bartholomew and Associates, Inc. 1995b). A survey to locate and characterize the wetlands occurring on FLW, determine jurisdictional wetlands regulated under provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and identify possible management strategies to protect/enhance existing wetlands. Field work was conducted between August 1993 and September 1994.
Biological Assessment of the Master Plan and Ongoing Mission (3D/Environmental 1996). Studies were conducted to assess effects of military training on Indiana bats, gray bats, and bald eagles on FLW. Field work was conducted in 1994-1995 and entailed mist-netting, radiotelemetry, and visual observations.
Prehistoric Mussel Fauna studies (Warren 1993, 1995a, 1995b). Reports characterize the prehistoric freshwater mussel fauna of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek based on freshwater mussel shells found in caves on FLW during archeological studies.
Two ongoing biological monitoring programs on FLW gather data that are useful when conducting surveys for listed species. These programs are:
· LCTA - An ongoing program initiated in 1989 on FLW as part of the ITAM (Integrated Training Area Management) program. Land, vegetation, and wildlife resources are evaluated using baseline information gathered from permanent plots located throughout FLW (Proffitt 1994).
· Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship Program (MAPS) - An ongoing project initiated in 1993 on FLW. A cooperative effort among Federal, state, and private agencies and organizations, and individual bird banders in North America to operate a continent-wide network of constant effort mist-netting stations to capture and band land birds and constant effort point count stations, during the breeding season (DeSante and Burton n.d.).
Regional or Statewide Studies Including FLW
A number of studies have been conducted by the MDC in the FLW region. Fisheries resources, endangered species monitoring, and natural features are well documented for this area. These projects also provide information regarding the natural resources occurring on FLW.
Missouri Natural Feature Inventory of Laclede, Phelps, and Pulaski Counties (Ryan 1992). Systematic inventory documenting and rating occurrences of natural communities, rare and endangered plants and animals, relict species sites, and geologic and other unique features. Field work in these three counties was completed in 1990-1991.
Gray Bat Cave Survey Report (McGimsey and Johnson 1994). Statewide survey of infrequently surveyed transient and maternity gray bat caves, including several gray bat caves on FLW.
Breeding Bird Atlas Project (Jacobs unpub.). Statewide standardized survey documenting breeding birds in Missouri. Several blocks were on FLW or nearby; one survey block was located in the center portion of FLW, a second block on the northwest boundary, and a third block southeast of FLW.
Fishery Resources of the Big Piney River and Gasconade Basin (MDC-Fisheries Division). Over the years, several studies documenting fish and other aquatic resources of Big Piney River have been completed. These surveys were primarily directed at game fish; however, information was often gathered describing non-game species as well. The study area is generally well described, offering a picture of current habitat conditions. Although most of these projects did not include a sampling point on FLW, they do provide information on fish communities upstream and downstream from FLW.
Studies of the Bottom Fauna of Two South Central Missouri Streams, the Niangua River and the Big Piney River (Foster 1957). Compared physical and benthic fauna of two streams.
Some Limnological Characteristics of Six Ozark Streams (Clifford 1966). Reported on the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of six Ozark streams, one of which was the Big Piney River. Field work was conducted in 1961.
Missouri's Fishing Streams (Funk 1968). Provided basic information regarding stream flow, drainage area, and length of Missouri's streams.
The Fish Population in Big Piney River (Russell 1974). Used information from fish sampling in 1963-1972 and creel surveys to determine trends in fish populations, estimate standing crop of selected species, and evaluate the effect of the 12-in. length limit established in 1967 on the smallmouth bass population.
The Fishery of Big Piney River and the Effects of Stocking Fingerling Smallmouth Bass (Fleener, Funk, and Robinson 1974). Documents smallmouth bass production and populations of forage fish. Used information obtained from creel surveys and from fish population surveys conducted between 1951 and 1958.
Harvest of Fish from the Big Piney River (Fleener 1974a). Reports harvest information obtained from a quantitative creel census conducted between 1963 and 1972. Evaluated changes in smallmouth bass populations and harvest after 12-in. length limit was established in 1967.
Reproductive Success of Fishes in Big Piney River (Pflieger 1974). Described the production of young for large fishes, determined species composition and trends in abundance of forage fishes, and evaluated the effects of various physical phenomena and black-bass length on recruitment of smallmouth bass. Field surveys were conducted between 1963 and 1972.
A Study of Gigging in the Big Piney River (Fleener 1974b). Summary of a gigging census conducted between 1963 and 1972. Notes game fish taken by gigging.
Distribution, Status, and Life History of the Bluestripe Darter, Percina cymatotaenia (Pflieger 1984). Includes reports on fish surveys conducted upstream and downstream of FLW on Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek. Sites were surveyed between 1974 and 1982 as part of a state-wide fish survey. Includes information on fish assemblages in these streams.
Summary
The reports, surveys, and monitoring programs listed in this section offer a wealth of information about FLW and the surrounding region. Well studied FLW resources include plants, wetland communities, birds, small mammals, caves, endangered bats, and timber resources (although not included in the review, extensive surveys of timber stand quality have been conducted on FLW). Additionally, information is available from public wildlife harvests on FLW.
However, information on certain groups occurring on FLW is lacking. MDC fish surveys generally avoided sampling the intermittent creeks and portions of Roubidoux Creek and Big Piney River located within FLW boundaries. Scant information was available on freshwater invertebrates both on FLW and in the surrounding streams. Additionally, very little information was available for amphibians and reptiles on FLW.
Objective 2a - Freshwater Mussel Surveys of Designated Stream Reaches
Twenty-seven species (including two subspecies) of unionid mussels and the introduced Asiatic clam were found during the survey of FLW. Freshwater mussels known to occur in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek are presented in Table 2. Representatives of all 27 species were found in Big Piney River and 15 species were found in Roubidoux Creek. Live specimens were found for 21 of the 27 mussel species in Big Piney River and for 9 of the 15 mussel species in Roubidoux Creek.
No living or dead freshwater mussels or Asiatic clams were found in the seven tributaries surveyed on FLW. Although several of these are spring-fed, in no case is the flow enough to produce a stream channel with flowing water throughout the year. Isolated pools occur, but these often have bedrock as a substrate, which is not a suitable substrate for freshwater mussels.
Prior to the present survey, mussel fauna of both Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek had not been thoroughly surveyed. Twenty-two species (including 2 subspecies) and 12 species were known from Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek, respectively (Table 2). The survey increased the known number of species present to 28 (Big Piney River) and 18 (Roubidoux Creek).
Based on recent (Oesch 1984) and prehistoric (Warren 1993) accounts, and counting Buchanan's (environmental services biologist, MDC, pers. comm.) records as new if not mentioned elsewhere in the literature, the present data represent 10 and 6 new unionid records for Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek, respectively. New records for Big Piney River include: threeridge, spectaclecase, purple wartyback, yellow sandshell, fragile papershell, threehorn wartyback, Ouachita kidneyshell, pimpleback, pistolgrip, paper pondshell. New records for Roubidoux Creek include: mucket, spectaclecase, purple wartyback, pink heelsplitter, monkeyface, and pistolgrip. The Asiatic clam is a new record for both streams.
Another species possibly occurring in both streams, and constituting new stream records, is the Ozark pigtoe. With the exception of one record, this species is restricted to south flowing Ozark streams. Live specimens similar to this species were found in both Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek. Additionally, the Ozark pigtoe was documented (although identification is questionable) from Big Piney River by Johnson (1980). However, voucher specimens from this survey (like Johnson's), could not be positively identified for lack of living tissue. Additional specimens should be collected to determine the status of this species in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek.
Due to the occasional difficulty in determining the identity of northern broken-ray (Lampsilis reeviana brittsi) and Ozark broken-ray (L. r. brevicula) specimens, the two species were grouped together and are referred to only as L. reeviana. Although 28 species are known to occur in the Big Piney River, for purposes of this report the number is considered to be 27.
Eight species of unionids are endemic to the Ozarks (Johnson 1980). Specimens of two, Ouachita kidneyshell and L. reeviana, and possibly a third (Ozark pigtoe) were collected during this survey.
In southern Missouri, the Ozark crest separates river drainages North to South, with rivers on the northern slope flowing north, and rivers on the southern slope flowing south (Bretz 1965; Thom and Wilson 1980). The unionid fauna of the southern slope is richer in endemic unionid taxa than the northern slope (Johnson 1980), perhaps an artifact of more extensive surveys. Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek have mussel fauna typical of the north flowing streams (Johnson 1980).
The Big Piney River and, to a lesser extent, Roubidoux Creek have relatively diverse mussel faunas. Unionid species richness in the Big Piney River is at least 2/3 of that in the Gasconade River. The Gasconade River has 40 species of freshwater mussels, including taxa found at archaeological sites on the river (Oesch 1984), to which Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek are tributaries. The richness of endemic Ozarkian species in the Big Piney River is similar to other rivers on the northern Ozark slope, but not as high as that documented from the southern slope.
Big Piney River
Fourteen of the 42 mussel sampling sites on Big Piney River are located within the boundaries of FLW (Table 3). Excluding the Asiatic clam, only 20 of the 27 species were found within the boundaries of FLW. The seven mussel species not found on FLW are elktoe, slippershell mussel, fragile papershell, black sandshell, threehorn wartyback, Ouachita kidneyshell, and squawfoot. These species are uncommon in Big Piney River and with the exception of elktoe and black sandshell, all are known from the river only by a couple of weathered shells. Of the 20 species found on FLW, live specimens were found for 17 species and weathered shells for 3 species.
Our observations of dead individuals and counts of live individuals, show that the mucket is by far the most abundant and frequently encountered species in Big Piney River (Table 4). This species was encountered at 31 of 42 sampling locations and accounted for approximately 53 percent of all live specimens. Other relativelyabundant species were threeridge, monkeyface, ellipse, Lampsilis reeviana, and fatmucket. The most frequently encountered mussels in the Big Piney River were, in order of frequency, mucket, ellipse, Wabash pigtoe, and L. reeviana. Conversely, five species were found at only one sampling site, and each species was represented by one weathered shell. These species are yellow sandshell, fragile papershell, threehorn wartyback, Ouachita kidneyshell, and paper pondshell. Two other species, elktoe and squawfoot, were collected at two sites and were represented by one live mussel and two weathered shells at one site, and one weathered shell at the other site.
After the first sampling period in 1993, it was noted that species richness appeared greater in segments of Big Piney River upstream and downstream of FLW (Sternburg 1994). Additional sampling supported this observation. The number of native mussel species (live and dead) found at each sampling site was greater for sites off of FLW than for sampling sites on FLW. Sites 1-6 and 35-42 (excluding Site 38, which is in Spring Creek) averaged 13.9 species/site, and Sites 7-34 (excluding Sites 8-11, which were sampled as part of fish surveys and were not thorough samplings) averaged 7.6 species/site.
The greatest level of freshwater mussel species richness on FLW occurred at Site 28 (Table 3). A total of 15 mussel species was found from the backwater and river areas of this site, representing a unique assemblage of mussels compared to other sampling sites. Aerial photos from the 1930s show a backwater area, but much smaller than it is today. The construction of a dam in 1953 to provide deeper water for a float bridge training site upstream likely influenced water levels in this backwater area. The backwater area has practically no flow and a substratum consisting of silt, sand, and mud. Four species of unionid mussels that prefer a soft substratum were found at this site, including giant floater, pondmussel, paper pondshell, and yellow sandshell. The latter two species were found only at this site. Although several of the 15 species were located in other parts of the river, this site appears to serve as a refugia in a gravel/rock-dominated stream for species that require a soft substrate.
Additionally, greater abundance of freshwater mussels were found off of FLW. Although more locations on segments of Big Piney River were sampled within FLW than outside of its boundaries, 28 versus 14, approximately 1,400 more live mussels were found off of FLW (Table 4). Much of this disparity is due to having found three relatively large and diverse mussel beds upstream (Sites 2 and 5) and downstream (Site 36) of FLW. A total of 427 live mussels were found within the boundaries of FLW. Most of the live specimens found within FLW were at Site 28 (East Gate dam backwater) and Site 33 (below East Gate dam).
Roubidoux Creek
Two of the 13 mussel sampling sites on Roubidoux Creek are not within the boundaries of FLW (Table 5). Representatives of the Asiatic clam and all 15 mussel species found in Roubidoux Creek were found on FLW. Live specimens were found for nine freshwater mussel species and the Asiatic clam, and weathered shell was found for six species in Roubidoux Creek on FLW (Table 6).
Due to the losing nature of Roubidoux Creek, much of the stream is inhospitable to freshwater mussels. Specimens were found at 11 sites within FLW (Table 5). However, not included here are the many areas where there were no signs of mussel life, including weathered shells. Species richness was low, with an average of 6.08 species/sampling site and a total of 159 specimens observed (including two suspected Ozark pigtoes). Seven of the 13 sampling sites had 5 or fewer freshwater mussel species.
The most abundant species in Roubidoux Creek were spike, Lampsilis reeviana, and ellipse (Table 6). These three species accounted for approximately 71 percent of all living specimens found in this creek. The most frequently encountered species were L. reeviana, fatmucket, spike, and Wabash pigtoe.
Listed Freshwater Mussel Fauna
Prior to field surveys, it was determined that two Federally and/or state-listed species of freshwater mussels potentially occur in Big Piney River and/or Roubidoux Creek:
1. Elktoe; Federal-formerly C2; MO-Status Undetermined
2. Spectaclecase; Federal-formerly C2; MO-Watch List.
Representatives of both species were found in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek (Figure 4). In addition, one weathered shell of Ouachita kidneyshell was found in the Big Piney River. This species was formerly listed as a C2 species, and is currently considered a Watch List species in Missouri. Therefore, 3 of the 28 unionid species known to occur in the Big Piney River and/or Roubidoux Creek are of conservation concern. Locations for all occurrences are presented in Table 7. See Listed Freshwater Mussels Species Accounts for information on each listed species found during this survey.
Figure 4. Locations of Federally and state-listed freshwater mussels found on or near FLW.Although substrate appeared suitable for Federally and/or state-listed species known to occur in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek, few examples of these species were found during the survey. Two live elktoes were located during the present survey, one in Roubidoux Creek on FLW, and the other in Big Piney River upstream of FLW. Both live specimens were found in sandy, small- to medium-sized gravel substrate.
Live spectaclecase were not observed within FLW in either Roubidoux Creek or Big Piney River. However, shells were found at two sites within the FLW portion of Big Piney River and at one site within FLW on Roubidoux Creek. Locations of theseshells indicate that the species occurs, or at one time occurred, either upstream or near the site. Live spectaclecase were found several miles downstream of FLW (at Devil's Elbow, and below Interstate 44) in Big Piney River. Surveys directed at this species on areas within FLW that appeared to be suitable habitat were unsuccessful.
One weathered Ouachita kidneyshell was found at Ross Bridge on Big Piney River. Positive identification of this shell was not made until after surveys were complete, and it was a surprise to find this species in Big Piney River. Although never common, this species is more prevalent in streams flowing south off of the Salem Plateau (Oesch 1984).
Listed Freshwater Mussels Species Accounts
Elktoe (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: One individual was found in Roubidoux Creek on FLW and one mussel was found upstream of the boundaries of FLW in Big Piney River. This species was not known from these streams until this survey. Mussels were found in sites with swiftly moving water, a gravel to sandy substrate, with depths ranging from less than 1 ft (Roubidoux Creek) to 3 ft (Big Piney River).
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: May be found in small streams to large rivers, usually in areas with sand to gravel and cobble substrates (more often the latter) in water less than 2 ft deep (Buchanan 1980).
Missouri distribution: The elktoe may be found in most of the rivers draining the Springfield and Salem plateaus. It has also been found in two Mississippi River tributaries: the Salt River and the Cuivre River (Oesch 1984). Elktoes were common in the Big, Bourbeuse, and Meramec rivers in the Meramec Basin (Buchanan 1980).
Natural Heritage Database information: Aside from the records from the FLW study, only one other elktoe record exists in the Database; this record is from the Gasconade River.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure. The American Fisheries Society (Williams et al. 1993) considers this a species of Special Concern(i.e., may become Endangered or Threatened by relatively minor disturbances to its habitat, and deserves careful monitoring of its abundance and distribution).
Comments: This species has never been common; future statewide mussel surveys will help in determining its conservation status.
Management recommendations: Improve existing riparian habitat to minimize erosion and siltation. Avoid in-stream activities that require or cause substrate disturbance, thereby increasing substrate instability.
Spectaclecase (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Watch List)
Survey results: Live specimens were not discovered within the boundaries of FLW, although two large populations of this species were found several miles downstream of FLW in Big Piney River. One site had 57 spectaclecase (at Devil's Elbow) and the other site below the I-44 bridge had 250 spectaclecase. Weathered shell was found at several locations on FLW in both the Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek. These records indicate the species may occur within the boundaries of FLW in both streams.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: Species found in medium to large rivers with swiftly flowing water; large numbers often wedge into rock crevices, along the bank side, in deep water, 5 to 10 ft deep (Oesch 1984).
Missouri distribution: Primarily in the medium to large rivers of the Gasconade, Meramec, and Osage drainages (Buchanan 1980).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 59 records of this species in Missouri. Live specimens were found at 31 of the 59 sites, and most sites had 10 or fewer live individuals.
Rangewide status: Widely distributed but absent from many areas where it formerly occurred. The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G2/G3 species, indicating that globally populations are imperiled to rare or uncommon. The American Fisheries Society (Williams et al. 1993) considers this species Threatened (i.e., likely to become Endangered throughout all or a significant portion of its range). It is thought to be extirpated from Ohio and possibly Indiana (Cummings and Mayer 1992).
Comments: Of the two sites with large populations, all of the specimens found appeared to be adults, and fairly old. No young mussels were observed. Reproductive status of this species should be evaluated at these sites to determine population viability.
Management recommendations: Improve existing riparian habitat to minimize erosion and siltation. Avoid in-stream activities that require or cause substrate disturbance, thereby increasing substrate instability.
Ouachita kidneyshell (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Watch List)
Survey results: Although not thought to occur in either Big Piney River or Roubidoux Creek, one very weathered shell was found near the Ross Bridge river access, upstream of FLW.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: Medium-sized rivers with a substrate of gravel-mud and gravel and a moderate current (Oesch 1984). Generally found in shallow water riffles.
Missouri distribution: With the exception of several records for streams flowing north off of the Salem Plateau (Meramec, Niangua, and Sac rivers), this species is most often found in streams flowing south off the Salem Plateau (Oesch 1984). Where found, it is never abundant.
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains nine records of this species in Missouri; each site had one to three live individuals.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G3/G4 species, indicating that globally populations are rare or uncommon to widespread, abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern. The American Fisheries Society (Williams et al. 1993) considers this species Threatened (i.e., likely to become Endangered throughout all or a significant portion of its range).
Comments: This species burrows into the substrate (Oesch 1984) and thus, may often be overlooked during surveys.
Management recommendations: Improve existing riparian habitat to minimize erosion and siltation. Avoid in-stream activities that require or cause substrate disturbance, thereby increasing substrate instability.
Objective 2b - Crayfish Surveys of Designated Stream Reaches
The crayfish fauna in the streams of FLW is not diverse. Two common species were identified during fish and mussel sampling: golden crayfish and spothanded crayfish. Individuals of both species were numerous in most of the streams sampled and numbers were not recorded. Both crayfish species were found in Big Piney River, Roubidoux Creek, East Gate Tributary, and the streams running through Musgrave Hollow, Turnbull Hollow, Ballard Hollow, and Falls Hollow. Neither species was found in the streams running through Hurd Hollow and McCann Hollow.
Another species of crayfish, Salem cave crayfish occurs in Roubidoux Spring at Waynesville. This is a Missouri-Watch List species. As Roubidoux Creek is a known recharge stream for Roubidoux Spring, it is possible that this species may occur in streams of caves associated with the Roubidoux Creek watershed. However, it has not been reported from caves on FLW (Oesch and Oesch 1986).
Another crayfish, the devil crayfish, is reported from southern Pulaski County (Pflieger 1996). This common crayfish has a statewide distribution, but appears to be absent from the southwest portion of the state. This burrowing crayfish is rarely seen as it spends most its life in underground burrows. However, the mud chimneys topping its burrows are readily identified. Burrows are constructed in timbered and formerly timbered areas along streams and ditches (Pflieger 1996). Although not observed during this survey, this species likely occurs on FLW.
Two other listed crustaceans are known from Pulaski County: (1) Central Missouri cave amphipod, Federal-formerly C2, MO-Rare; and (2) Onondaga cave amphipod, Federal-formerly 3C, MO-Watch List. Both species occur in a cave located directly west of FLW. The Central Missouri cave amphipod is known from one cave on FLW (Oesch and Oesch 1986).
Objective 2c - Fish Surveys of Designated Stream Reaches
Fish surveys of Big Piney River, Roubidoux Creek, and semi-permanent streams associated with Musgrave, Turnbull, Ballard, Falls, Hurd, and McCann hollows, and East Gate Road were conducted between April 1994 and October 1995. A total of 57 species representing 13 families of fish were collected or observed during this survey (Table 8).
Big Piney River
Sampling was done on 31 sites on Big Piney River, 25 of which occurred either within FLW, or along the installation's boundary. Fifty-one species from 12 families of fish were identified during sampling (Tables 9A-C). Two additional species of fish - mooneye and rainbow trout - were not collected during the survey process, but were observed from Big Piney River. A fisherman showed the researchers a mooneye he had just caught in Big Piney River, and rainbow trout are stocked in Stone Mill Spring Management Trout Area. Therefore, the total number of species and families identified during this study are 53 and 14, respectively.
The present researchers found a lower level of species richness in Big Piney River than did previous researchers (Table 8). This is explained primarily by the fact that fewer large game species were captured in the present survey. Fleener et al. (1974a) reported 70 species from 14 families occurring in Big Piney River upstream of Ross Bridge from surveys conducted in the 1950s (Table 8). Pflieger (1974) stated that 66 species from 15 families are known to occur in Big Piney River. Species not mentioned by Fleener et al. (1974a) but collected or observed during this survey include: rainbow trout, striped shiner, and mosquitofish. Species not mentioned by Pflieger (1974) but collected during this survey: mosquitofish.
Species richness in the stretch of the Big Piney River sampled, appears typical of that for a small river in the Ozark Faunal Region-Missouri Division (Pflieger 1989). Although few large game fish were collected in the present survey, this is primarily due to sampling methods.
Larger fish are best sampled using a boat rigged for electroshocking, and only 1 day was spent sampling with this method. As the primary objective of the fish survey was to document Federally and state-listed species, the study concentrated on habitats suitable for targeted listed species. Cyprinids dominated the catch in the Big Piney River, with Centrarchids and Percids also contributing much to species richness and abundance (Tables 9A-C). By far, the most common species was bleeding shiner, both in numbers and frequency of occurrence. Other well represented species included: striped shiner, Ozark minnow, largescale stoneroller, and wedgespot shiner.
According to Pflieger (1975) the striped shiner has inexplicably decreased in the Gasconade drainage (although not in other portions of its range) and is reported from only one collecting location on the upper portion of the Gasconade River. This species was the second most numerous species (369 individuals) in the present collection effort, and was present at 15 of the 31 sampling locations. Although fewerthan 10 specimens occurred at most sites, more than 50 individuals were collected at 4 of the 15 sites.
Roubidoux Creek
Sampling was done on 22 sites on stretches of Roubidoux Creek within FLW. Forty species representing eight families of fish were identified (Tables 10A-B). Fish occurring in Roubidoux Creek have not been as well documented as those in Big Piney River. By piecing together information from unpublished MDC Fisheries Research Fish Records and Pflieger (1975) it was determined that 45 species representing 9 families of fish are known to occur in Roubidoux Creek.
Species diversity in the stretch of Roubidoux Creek sampled appears typical of that for a creek/small river in the Ozark Faunal Region-Missouri Division (Pflieger 1989). As with collections from Big Piney River, not many of the larger game fishes were collected. Large suckers were extremely common, but very difficult to catch with a drag seine. Also, the focus was on documenting listed species, and most of the sampling effort was concentrated on habitat preferred by targeted listed species.
Cyprinids dominated the catch in Roubidoux Creek (Tables 10A-B). Cyprinodontids, Centrarchids, and Ictalurids also were a major portion of the catch. However, most Ictalurids were from one location and were recently hatched black bullheads. The most common species, based upon number and frequency of occurrence, are bleeding shiners, northern studfish, bigeye shiners, and longear sunfish.
Striped shiners were collected from 11 of the 22 sites, for a total of 161 striped shiners. This species reportedly has decreased in the Gasconade drainage, although not in other areas of its range (Pflieger 1975). Collecting this species from both Roubidoux Creek and Big Piney River, with relatively high frequency and number, is an interesting note.
Tributary Streams
Streams associated with six hollows (Ballard, Falls, Hurd, McCann, Musgrave, and Turnbull) and East Gate Road were sampled in their entirety in mid- to late-spring. With the exception of Falls and Musgrave hollows, all streams were sampled during a 1-day period. Twenty-six species from eight families of fish were identified from these seven streams. Table 11 shows the species and number collected.
Species richness of these tributary streams was typical for an Ozark Headwater stream of the Ozark Faunal Region-Missouri Division (Pflieger 1989). Fish communities are less diverse and species abundance is lower in headwaters thancreeks. Typical species in headwaters include: southern redbelly dace, creek chub, orangethroat darters, and stonerollers (primarily central stonerollers in headwaters; however, many largescale stonerollers were found in Ballard Hollow, just upstream of joining with Roubidoux Creek). Fish from Hurd Hollow 2 were in a small marsh-pond habitat that appears to receive overflow from Penns Pond. Sunfish were the most common fish at this site.
Listed Fish Fauna
Prior to field surveys, it was determined that five Federally or state-listed species of fish occur in Big Piney River and two occur in Roubidoux Creek (Fleener et al. 1974a; Pflieger 1974; Pflieger 1975). These are:
1. Mooneye; Big Piney River; MO-Rare
2. Highfin carpsucker; Big Piney River; MO-Rare
3. Plains topminnow; Big Piney River; Federal-formerly C2; MO-Status Undetermined
4. Blacknose shiner; Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek; MO-Rare
5. Bluestripe darter; Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek; Federal-formerly C2; MO-Rare.
Representatives of mooneye, plains topminnow, and bluestripe darter were found in Big Piney River; blacknose shiner was found in Roubidoux Creek; and plains topminnow was found in Falls Hollow Tributary (Figure 5; Table 12). Information on each listed species discovered during this survey is presented under Listed Fish Species Accounts.
Two of the five listed species known to occur in Big Piney River were not found during this survey. Pflieger (1975) states that the highfin carpsucker is largely confined to the Ozarks, where it is more common in larger reservoirs than in streams. Fleener et al. (1974a) reports catching eight highfin carpsuckers in the 1950s at a site on the lower portion of Big Piney River, several miles downstream of FLW. The other listed species not found in Big Piney River is the blacknose shiner, which is decreasing throughout the state (Bruenderman, fisheries research biologist, MDC, pers. comm.). Pflieger (1975) and the NHD (1980 record) report this species as occurring upstream of FLW, usually in small numbers. Further surveys may locate a few individuals within FLW boundaries. However, as the Big Piney River at this point is wider, with a deeper, swifter current, habitat conditions are not optimal.
Figure 5. Locations of Federally and state-listed fish collected on or near FLW.
Bluestripe darters were not found during the survey of Roubidoux Creek. This species was collected from Roubidoux Creek upstream of FLW in 1980 (unpub. MDC Fisheries Research records). Much of Roubidoux Creek on FLW is a losing stream. As such, much of the creek within the installation is not suitable for many fish, including bluestripe darters.
Listed Fish Species Accounts
Plains topminnow (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: The plains topminnow was found in two locations: Falls Hollow tributary of Big Piney River in FLW and just upstream of FLW's boundary on Big Piney River. The Falls Hollow specimen was in a small, clear, moderately deep pool (2 ft) in the small headwater creek, which drains into the Big Piney River. The Big Piney River specimen was caught along a sandbar, in a quiet, clear pool.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This topminnow inhabits quiet, clear pools of small creeks, and backwaters and overflows of larger streams (Pflieger 1975). Cover in the form of nearby beds of submergent vegetation is often associated with sites.
Missouri distribution: This species appears to be restricted to the Gasconade, Osage, and Lamine River drainages, although a disjunct population is known from the Spring River drainage (Pflieger 1975).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 64 records - 32 historic and 32 extant.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G4 species, indicating that globally it is widespread, abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern.
Comments: The last reported record of this species in the Big Piney River is from 1981.
Mooneye (MO-Rare)
Survey results: One fish was caught by a fisherman in Big Piney River along the FLW golf course. Generally a big river fish, it was an unexpected find in the portion of Big Piney River on FLW.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This species is generally found in the larger pools of streams and the open waters of reservoirs (Pflieger 1975).
Missouri distribution: Statewide in larger rivers, with the exception of the southwest corner of the state (Pflieger 1975).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 28 records for the mooneye in Missouri. These are primarily located in the Mississippi and Black rivers.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Although it was reported to occur in Big Piney River (Fleener et al. 1974), the closest Heritage location is in the Gasconade River at the Fredericksburg Access.
Blacknose shiner (MO-Rare)
Survey results: One fish was found in an isolated pool on the losing portion of Roubidoux Creek in 1994.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: In the Ozarks, this minnow is found in quiet, heavily vegetated pools and in backwater areas of small rivers and creeks (Pflieger 1975).
Missouri distribution: Four disjunct populations are known. Loutre River and tributaries; Lamine River and tributaries; smaller creeks and rivers associated with the Osage River; and in streams associated with the Gasconade River (Pflieger 1975).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 56 records for this species - 27 extant records, 26 historic records, and 3 records where the site was destroyed to make way for the Truman Reservoir.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Prior to this survey, the last reported records for this fish in the streams surveyed for this study were from 1980 for the Big Piney River and from 1967 for Roubidoux Creek. A resurvey of Missouri fishes is in the final stages, and early reports indicate that numbers and range of the blacknose shiner have decreased considerably in the last 25 years (Bruenderman pers. comm.).
Bluestripe darter (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Rare)
Survey results: Bluestripe darters were found at five locations on Big Piney River; one location is represented by two occurrences for a total of six records. Three sites were within and two sites were outside of FLW's boundaries. Four of the six records were in areas typical of bluestripe darter habitat. However, two sightings were made in deeper (5 ft) and faster flowing water, over a sandy and boulder substrate.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This darter tends to be found in quiet pools and backwaters with sandy bottoms and abundant cover, such as submergent vegetation or accumulations of sticks and leaves (Pflieger 1975, 1984).
Missouri distribution: Gasconade drainage and the Niangua River (Pflieger 1975, 1984).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 41 records of the bluestripe darter in Missouri - 14 extant records and 17 historic records.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G3 species, indicating that globally it is rare or uncommon.
Comments: The last reports of this species in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek were made in 1981. As with the blacknose shiner, the numbers and range of this species are decreasing (Bruenderman personal communication).
Objectives 3a-b - Amphibian and Reptile Surveys
Based on available habitat on FLW, known ranges of species, and previous collections or observations in Pulaski County, a total of 68 species were identified as potentially occurring on FLW: 25 amphibian and 43 reptile species. A total of 566 individuals representing 21 amphibian species and 30 reptile species were found on FLW during this survey (Table 13). The survey found specimens representing eight new or updated Pulaski County records (Table 13). Voucher specimens will be deposited in the Natural History Museum at the University of Kansas, Lawrence.
Richness of amphibian and reptile species at FLW appears indicative of that occurring in the Upper Ozarks. Examples were not found of all 68 species thought possibly to occur on the installation. However, with the exception of several large snakes, no common, easily located species was absent from the survey findings. Seventeen amphibian and reptile species thought to occur on FLW were not located during the survey.
Eight of the 17 amphibian and reptile species not found during this survey of FLW have been vouchered or observed in Pulaski County (Table 13) and presumably might be located on the installation with additional surveys concentrating on suitable habitats. These species include: eastern hellbender, mudpuppy, graybelly salamander, Missouri river cooter, western painted turtle, Great Plains rat snake, eastern coachwhip, and western cottonmouth. The remaining nine species, all with ranges including Pulaski County and FLW, are (like many amphibians and reptiles) shy species that often are not easily located. These species include: four-toed salamander, false map turtle, ornate box turtle, eastern collared lizard, western slender glass lizard, northern scarlet snake, bullsnake, rough earth snake, and timber rattlesnake. Additionally, several of these species are rare to uncommon in the state, making location difficult.
Listed Amphibians and Reptiles
Based on available habitats, reported species' ranges, and previous collections or observations, six species of amphibians and reptiles of conservation concern were identified as potentially occurring on FLW:
1. Eastern hellbender; Federal- formerly C2; MO-Watch List
2. Ringed salamander; MO-Watch List
3. Four-toed salamander; MO-Rare
4. Grotto salamander; MO-Watch List
5. Northern scarlet snake; MO-Rare
6. Eastern collared lizard; MO-Watch List.
Special habitat searches were directed at listed species and conducted at 30 stations on FLW. Effort spent at each location varied with weather, size of area to be surveyed and number of available personnel. No Federally listed species, or species with a state designation of Rare or Endangered, were located during this study. Specimens of two state Watch Listed species were found on FLW. One specimen, the grotto salamander, was located during the special habitat search. The second, the ringed salamander, was found in terrestrial funnel traps.
Thus, two of the 51 amphibian and reptile species occurring on FLW are of conservation concern. Figure 6 is a map showing approximately where the species were found. More detailed location information for each listed species' occurrence is presented in Table 14, and both species are discussed in Listed Amphibian and Reptile Species Accounts later in this chapter.
The possibility exists that other listed species will be found on FLW, because suitable habitat is available for some of these species and failure to locate them does not mean they are not present. A description of the four potentially occurring listed species not found during this survey follows.
Figure 6. Locations of Federally and state-listed amphibians observed on or near FLW.
Eastern hellbender. Although FLW is well within the eastern hellbender's range, which includes rivers flowing north off the Ozark Plateau into the Missouri and Mississippi rivers (Johnson 1992), this species was not found in Big Piney River or Roubidoux Creek during this survey. Portions of Big Piney River on FLW provide only marginal habitat for this species (Fobes, graduate student, Southwest Missouri State Univ., pers. comm.). Big Piney River on FLW is fairly turbid and without the large flat rocks needed for cover. Much of Roubidoux Creek on FLW is a losing stream and, as such, is not favorable habitat for the eastern hellbender (Johnson, herpetologist, MDC, pers. comm.). Suitable habitat for the eastern hellbender consists of cool waters of rocky, clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams (Nickerson and Mays 1973). However, six eastern hellbenders were caught near Ross Bridge on Big Piney River by MDC Fisheries personnel. Additionally, unverified anecdotal reports of eastern hellbenders occurring in the Big Piney River on FLW exist.
Four-toed salamander. The four-toed salamander is very secretive and difficult to locate. Although this species was not found on FLW, it has been found on Mark Twain National Forest, less than 15 miles from the eastern boundary of FLW (Missouri NHD). There are two ways of locating this species: (1) look for females with eggs in mossy areas along heavily forested, spring-fed creeks or sinkhole ponds in early to mid-March, or (2) use drift fencing and pit-fall traps in forested uplands (Johnson 1992). Due to labor constraints, the former method was used to try and locate this species. Very few areas on FLW had suitable habitat, and what was available was marginal. Most of the mossy beds that were located along upland creeks were very small, and not very dense.
Northern scarlet snake. An unverified report of a northern scarlet snake near open landfills in the northern portion of FLW was made several years ago by an amateur herpetologist (Johnson pers. comm.). These landfills have since been closed and covered with soil. Surveys for the northern scarlet snake on FLW were unsuccessful. This is a secretive snake that is rarely observed. It is presumed to occur in south-central Missouri in the Ozark Natural Division, and possibly could occur on FLW (Johnson pers. comm.).
Eastern collared lizard. The eastern collared lizard is most often found under large, flat rocks on dry limestone or sandstone glades facing south to southwest (Johnson 1992). It is found throughout the Missouri Ozarks and on the glades of the St. Francois Mountains. Most of the glades on FLW appeared to have more vegetation and soil cover than those glades most often associated with the eastern collared lizard. Small segments of certain glades on FLW appeared suitable; however, searches of these areas for the collared lizard were unsuccessful.
Capture Methods and Results
In addition to the special habitat search for listed species, a number of other methods were used to search for amphibian and reptile species. A brief description of the results of each method follows. A list of all species captured on FLW is found in Table 13. Table 15 shows names and numbers of species found by each surveymethod. For more detailed information on survey results, see Sanborn and Sternburg (1996).
Road cruise. Eighty-four amphibians and reptiles, representing 11 species of amphibians and 1 species of reptile, were observed during night road cruises. These surveys were conducted during heavy thunderstorms in mid-May 1995 on two roads (FLW Roads 25 and 26) running parallel to the Big Piney River. One species identified, the marbled salamander, represented a new Pulaski County record.
Frog and toad breeding call survey. Frog and toad breeding call surveys were attempted between 7 April and 12 July 1994 and 29 March and 27 July 1995. However, due to weather and other extenuating factors, several surveys were not completed for all 10 stations. Ten species of frogs and toads were heard calling during the breeding call surveys. No more than nine species were heard in any 1 year, and the eastern narrowmouth toad was not heard in 1994 or 1995.
Terrestrial funnel trapping. A total of 105 specimens were captured and identified by terrestrial funnel trapping; these represented seven and eight species of amphibians and reptiles, respectively. Three juvenile ringed salamanders, a Missouri Watch-List species, were caught, all in the same general area of FLW. Additional searches of these areas for ringed salamanders were unsuccessful. Both the broadhead skink and western earth snake were new Pulaski County records.
Aquatic funnel trapping. Turtle traps were set in 1995 at three sites representing different habitat types on FLW. In the course of 3 trapping sessions, 103 specimens of 3 species of turtles were captured and identified: red-eared slider (62), common musk turtle (34), and common snapping turtle (7). A voucher of the red-eared slider, a new Pulaski County record, was collected and deposited in The Natural History Museum at the University of Kansas, Lawrence.
No additional aquatic funnel trapping was attempted, as no further species were being located and it is a very time-consuming search method. Further observations of turtles were made by locating turtles basking on logs along the Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek and identifying them with the aide of binoculars and a spotting scope. These are recorded as incidental observations.
Terrestrial time search. Terrestrial time searches were conducted at 16 stations on FLW during this study. Seventy specimens of 8 species of amphibians and 16 species of reptiles were collected and identified.
Aquatic time search. Three aquatic time searches were conducted, but no additional species were identified, so this survey method was discontinued. Five amphibian species were collected and identified.
Cave surveys. Ten wet caves on FLW were identified and searched for amphibians and reptiles in 1995. Five species of amphibians and one species of reptile were located during these searches. Additional surveys may locate graybelly salamanders.
Incidental Observation. A total of 177 individuals, representing 14 species of amphibians and 22 species of reptiles, were captured and identified incidentally to other surveys on FLW. One listed species, ringed salamander, was found by this method. Voucher specimens of two new Pulaski County records, the eastern hognose snake and rough green snake, will be sent to the Natural History Museum at the University of Kansas, Lawrence.
Listed Amphibian and Reptile Species Accounts
Ringed salamander (MO-Watch List)
Survey results: Ringed salamanders, all juveniles, were captured from three areas on FLW: LCTA plots #47, #316, and #324 located in dry-mesic upland forest, and the foxholes on Range 12.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This salamander is very secretive and little is known of its habits. The ringed salamander is generally found hiding under logs and rocks or burrowing in the soil. It seldom ventures into the open and prefers heavily forested areas (Johnson 1992).
Missouri distribution: Ringed salamanders occur in the southwestern and central portions of the Missouri Ozarks and in the river hills of the Missouri River in the eastern section of the state (Johnson 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 20 records of ringed salamanders in MO - 10 extant and 10 historic. Ringed salamanders have been found at two locations within 15 miles of FLW.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G4 species, indicating that globally it is widespread where it occurs (i.e., Ozarks), abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern.
Comments: None.
Grotto salamander (MO-Watch List)
Survey results: This salamander (both adult and larvae) was found in two wet caves, Martin and Henshaw, on FLW.
Previous sightings on FLW: Henshaw Cave (Oesch and Oesch 1986). A 1941 record from Martin Cave (=Maxey Cave?) is in error. This species was found in nearby Great Spirit Cave, which has also been known as Maxey Cave.
General habitat: Grotto salamanders are found in wet, Ozark Plateau caves with a spring or stream (Johnson 1992).
Missouri distribution: Karst regions of the Ozark Plateau (Johnson 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 66 records of the grotto salamander in Missouri - 47 extant and 19 historic. Several records are known from caves in Pulaski County.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this species as a G4 indicating that globally it is widespread where it occurs (i.e., Ozarks), abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern.
Comments: Grotto salamanders are often found in greater abundance in caves that have a large number of bats, possibly due to the presence of insects attracted to bat guano (Johnson pers. comm.).
Objective 4 - Resident and Migratory Bird Surveys
The main objective of these surveys was to document Federally and state-listed species of birds on FLW. A secondary objective was to identify neotropical migrants and gain an understanding of their occurrence on FLW. As the field work required to complete the secondary objective was beyond the scope of this project, and data are available from an ongoing mist net and point count survey on FLW (MAPS), it was decided to concentrate field efforts on listed species. Information from the MAPS study was useful in describing species use of various habitats on FLW.
Birds on FLW
During 1994-1995, 114 species representing 32 families of birds were identified on FLW (Table 16). Records from FLW indicate that 193 species of birds have been positively identified and the Bachman's sparrow tentatively identified, for a total of 194 species on the installation (Proffitt 1994). The study added three new species to the installation list: great egret, marsh wren, and sedge wren. The 1995 MAPS study added common moorhen to the installation list (MAPS unpub. data). These records give a total of 197 species of birds positively identified and one species tentatively identified on FLW. One species included in Table 16, but not observed on FLW, is the blue grosbeak. This species was located directly west of FLW during 1989 Breeding Bird Atlas surveys, and is likely to occur on FLW.
Based on observational and physiological evidence (DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994; MAPS unpub. data), breeding status was determined for most species observed on FLW (Table 17). Reproductive status was confirmed for 66 species, deemed probable for 3 species, and thought possible for 41 species. Eighty-eight species are known to be transients on FLW or are species for which breeding status could not be determined.
A total of 144 species of neotropical migratory birds is known to occur on FLW (Table 16). Reproductive status for these species on FLW was confirmed for 45 species, deemed probable for 3 species, and thought possible for 30 species. These figures indicate that approximately 51 percent of the neotropical migratory bird species known to occur on FLW also are reproducing on the installation. Most of the neotropical migrants that do not nest on FLW are waterfowl, shorebirds, and warblers, whose breeding ranges are north of Missouri. Other species require large, emergent wetlands, which are unavailable at FLW.
Data from the ongoing MAPS study (DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994; MAPS unpub. data) provide an indication of bird species abundance on FLW. Since 1993, point counts and mist netting surveys have been conducted by MAPS personnel on FLW. Six stations were established in an attempt to document bird populations from available habitats (Table 18). Ten mist net sites and nine point count sites were established at each station, and surveys were conducted between late May and early August.
Based on 1993 and 1995 MAPS survey results (DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994; MAPS unpub. data), the 10 most abundant species (accounting for more than 80 occurrences by either mist-net or point-count surveys) on FLW are shown in Table 19.
Species most adapted to open, brushy areas and forest edge dominated the MAPS results in 1993 and 1995 (i.e., indigo bunting, blue-winged warbler, American crow, northern cardinal, field sparrow, yellow-breasted chat, brown-headed cowbird, and eastern towhee). The red-eyed vireo was the only species preferring large tracts of mature forest that was among the 10 most abundant species in both years. Whether these results are an artifact of sampling due to station placement, or a true representation of species abundance on FLW, cannot be determined based on this limited amount of sampling.
However, a comparison of MAPS data on FLW to unpublished point-count data from the surrounding Mark Twain National Forest, also indicates that FLW appears to have greater numbers of bird species that prefer forest edge and brushy areas than does the surrounding Mark Twain National Forest (USFS, Mark Twain National Forest, unpub. data). Species more adapted to forest interior were more abundant on Mark Twain National Forest than on FLW (i.e., red-eyed vireo, ovenbird, black-and-white warbler, and summer tanager).
Much of the forested landscape of FLW is fragmented due to past land-use patterns before the establishment of FLW and to the necessary fire management techniques implemented on training ranges. Fire breaks are necessary to contain fires started by exploding ordnance; however, this form of habitat manipulation creates more edge, reducing the amount of contiguous woodland and leads to habitat fragmentation. Bird species requiring extensive wooded tracks are negatively impacted by forest fragmentation. However, those species that prefer edge and scrubby habitat benefit from forest fragmentation.
It is believed that forest fragmentation, favorable for cowbirds, is a factor in the decline in numbers of neotropical migratory birds, as many neotropical migrants are forest interior birds. Nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds is a threat to neotropical migrants on their breeding grounds. The greatest number of brown-headed cowbirds observed or mist netted on FLW during MAPS sampling occurred in 1993, with 107 brown-headed cowbirds observed during point counts (DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994). Fewer cowbirds were observed in 1994 (8) and 1995 (24). The greatest number occurred in those areas with mixed habitats (Big Piney River area, Laughlin Bottoms, Miller Pond). However, approximately, 20 percent of the brown-headed cowbirds observed in 1993 were observed at Miller Ridge, an area described as mature deciduous forest. The presence of brown-headed cowbirds indicates this area is not entirely forested, and open areas are present.
According to Robbins and Easterla (1992), several bird species preferring Pinus echinata have declined in Missouri, primarily due to loss of this habitat. P. echinata is available on FLW in small native stands along Roubidoux Creek and Big PineyRiver, as well as in approximately 2,000 acres of pine plantation planted in the late 1950s and 1960s. Three species associated with this community that have declined in number were observed in low numbers on FLW (Table 16). Pine warblers were observed at each of six point-count locations (PCLs) in 1993-1995 (DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994; MAPS unpub. data). Chipping sparrows were observed at one PCL in 1993 and two locations in 1994. The yellow-throated warbler, which is primarily associated with riparian forest but also occurs in P. echinata, was identified at two PCLs and one mist-net location (MNL) out of six in 1993 and one PCL in 1994 and 1995.
Bird species associated with riparian forests have also declined throughout the state, primarily due to loss of wooded stream banks. Species associated with riparian areas observed on FLW that have suffered statewide declines include: Acadian flycatcher, warbling vireo, yellow-throated warbler, cerulean warbler, American redstart, prothonotary warbler, and hooded warbler (Robbins and Easterla 1992). Riparian forests along the large streams on FLW are relatively extensive. Current management strategies of avoiding training activities and timber harvests along stream banks have helped improve the quality of these riparian areas.
Fort Wood also provides upland forested habitat, and a number of species that have declined in Missouri and are associated with these areas were found on FLW. These species include pileated woodpecker, eastern wood-pewee, wood thrush, red-eyed vireo, black-and-white warbler, worm-eating warbler, ovenbird, and Kentucky warbler. Three of these species, red-eyed vireo, ovenbird, and Kentucky warbler, were quite common and were often observed during MAPS point counts or mist-net surveys (DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994; MAPS unpub. data).
Listed Bird Fauna
Based on known occurrences in the area, survey efforts were concentrated on 14 Federally and/or state-listed bird species thought possibly to have a breeding population on FLW and one great blue heron rookery (Table 20).
Over the 2-yr period and during the accepted breeding season (noted by the Breeding Bird Atlas study) for each species, 8 of the 14 listed species on FLW were identified (Table 20). Five listed species thought not to reproduce on FLW were observed during spring or fall migration: great egret, osprey, marsh wren, chestnut-sided warbler, and pied-billed grebe. Locations of each sighting are presented in Figure 7 and Table 21. Information regarding each listed bird species observed during this study is presented under Listed Bird Species Accounts.
Figure 7. Locations of Federally and state-listed birds found on FLW.Although not observed during this study, Bachman's sparrow (Federal-formerly C2, MO-Endangered) was reported from FLW on LCTA plot #53 in late May 1990, and a questionable sighting was made in 1992 near Ranges 28 and 29. Both observations occurred in open areas with herbaceous growth. This species nests in open pine woods with a grassy understory or in old fields with scattered shrubs (Harrison 1975), and it has been known to nest on glades with a relatively dense herbaceous cover in southern Missouri (Hardin, Baskett, and Evans 1982). Robbins and Easterla (1992) consider this species a very rare and local summer resident in the Ozarks and at least formerly in the Ozark border. Bachman's sparrow was previously more widespread, and decline may be due to succession of primary habitat. Before settlement, it was probably most common in the Pinus echinataareas of the state. Widmann (1907) stated that the Bachman's sparrow was very common and breeding in Shannon County. Due to the presence of pine wood on FLW, and an active timber management program, if pine wood areas are selectively harvested, these areas should be surveyed for this sparrow.
Henslow's sparrow (Federal-formerly C2, MO-Rare) was initially included as a target species. However, further review of the literature indicated that the likelihood of finding this species on FLW was very low. Robbins and Easterla (1992) consider this a locally uncommon summer resident in the Osage Plains; scarcer and extremely local in the Ozark Border; and very rare and local in the Glaciated Plains. Henslow's sparrow is primarily found on prairies and in the western and northern parts of Missouri. A reproducing population of this species is unlikely to occur on FLW.
Although bald eagles (Federal-Threatened, MO-Endangered) were not observed nesting on FLW during this survey, bald eagles are regularly observed along the larger streams on FLW during the winter months and during migration (3D/Envi ronmental 1996). Bald eagles are primarily seen along the major rivers, larger marshes, and at the larger reservoirs in Missouri. Robbins and Easterla (1992) consider the bald eagle an uncommon transient and winter resident and currently a very rare and local summer resident. Bald eagles have successfully nested along the Gasconade River and attempted nesting on the Big Piney River. Suitable habi tat exists along the Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek on FLW, and it is not unlikely that bald eagles may one day nest within the boundaries of FLW.
Although not previously reported from FLW, and not found during the survey, the loggerhead shrike (Federal-formerly C2, MO-Watch List) was considered a target species due to available suitable habitat (open areas with scattered trees, bushes, and hedgerows) on the installation. Loggerhead shrikes are an uncommon permanent resident in the western glaciated plains, Osage plains, and the Mississippi lowlands, and is rare elsewhere. This shrike is generally more common in the Ozarks today than at the turn of century due to clearing of the forests (Robbins and Easterla 1992). It is possible that this species occurs on FLW and will be found during future surveys.
Late evening surveys for black-crowned night-heron (MO-Rare) were conducted in the backwater slough areas adjacent to Big Piney River and the other large bodies of water on the installation. All surveys were unsuccessful. This night-heron nests in marshes, swamps, ponds, and lakes primarily in southeast Missouri (Robbins and Easterla 1992). It is an uncommon transient statewide, locally an uncommon summer resident in Mississippi lowlands, and rare elsewhere. It is doubtful that the black-crowned night-heron will have a reproducing population on FLW.
Prior reports exist for the barn owl (MO-Rare) on FLW (Roubidoux Creek bottoms in 1992); however, this species was not observed during the survey. The owl hunts and breeds in open country with scattered trees, often nesting in abandoned buildings, big hollow trees, or in hollows in cliffs. Robbins and Easterla (1992) consider the barn owl a rare permanent resident. Widmann (1907) states that "this owl was a rather rare resident...but not in the Ozarks and the southeast which are too densely wooded." Barn owls are now found in lowlands and the Ozarks, due to logging and removal of timber. However, it is primarily found in agricultural areas of the southwestern and southeastern section of the state (Robbins and Easterla 1992). FLW may be too wooded to attract this species.
Listed Bird Species Accounts
Pied-billed grebe (MO-Rare)
Survey results: It was not expected that this species would be found on FLW except during migration. However, it was observed twice during the fall migration in 1994; once on Bloodland Lake and the other on the new impoundment near Macedonia Cemetery.
Previous sightings on FLW: Regularly seen on Bloodland Lake during spring and fall migrations.
General habitat: Pied-billed grebes are found on most types of waters (lakes, ponds, rivers) during migration. This species primarily breeds in marshes with a relatively high water level north of the Missouri River (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Common migrant; rare and local summer resident statewide; uncommon winter resident, primarily in the south. Nests north of the Missouri River (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Of 24 extant records, 7 are confirmed breeding occurrences. The closest record to FLW is in Texas County; reproduction was not confirmed for this record.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Unlikely to have a reproducing population on FLW.
Great egret (MO-Rare)
Survey results: In 1994, observed during fall migration over Big Piney River.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This species nests in every type of shallow water habitat, especially marshes (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Uncommon transient and summer visitant; locally rare summer resident; accidental winter visitant. There are a few breeding colonies in Missouri, primarily in southeastern Missouri (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Six records of rookeries in Missouri within the last 3 years - four located near the Mississippi River and two near the Missouri River.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Appears to be increasing gradually since the decline of the demand for plume feathers. Unlikely to have a reproducing population on FLW.
Cooper's hawk (MO-Rare)
Survey results: This species was spotted five times on FLW - twice in 1994 and three times in 1995. With the exception of one sighting in 1994, all were made within dates when an individual's occurrence likely indicates breeding (Missouri Breeding Bird Atlas, unpublished). Although it was not possible to verify breeding and successful nesting on FLW during this survey, evidence suggests the probability of nesting (i.e., sighting of male-female pairs and of three birds all of similar size [possibly recently fledged immature birds] late within the breeding safe dates).
Previous sightings on FLW: Several sightings in upland areas and an active nest in pine plantations near LCTA plots #60 and 43 (1992 and 1993).
General habitat: The preferred nesting habitat is mature forest, especially with shortleaf pine or mixed deciduous/coniferous forest with open areas interspersed (Reynolds and Meslow 1984). The large nest is usually close to a clearing near water.
Missouri distribution: Rare transient and winter resident, rare summer resident in Ozarks and Ozark Border, and extremely rare elsewhere. Uncommon winter resident in small numbers; most common in Ozarks (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Fifty-two extant nesting records, primarily from Kritz (1989). The closest nesting occurrence to FLW is on Forest Service land, less than 1 mile west of FLW from 1986.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranked this as a G4 species, indicating that globally it is widespread, abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern.
Comments: Pine plantations and mixed pine/hardwood forests are available on FLW for nesting Cooper's hawks. Portions of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek are bounded by lowland woods. More numerous as a breeder than sharp-shinned hawks, and less common as a migrant than sharp-shinned hawks. Kritz (1989) indicated that the center of abundance is in the most heavily forested areas of the state, the east central Ozarks and the Ozark border. Of 43 nests, 67 percent were in P. echinata.
Sharp-shinned hawk (MO-Rare)
Survey results: This hawk was observed four times on FLW: three in 1994 and one in 1995. Only one of the sightings was within the safe breeding dates. All observations consisted of single hawks.
Previous sightings on FLW: Several sightings in upland areas and an active nest in a pine plantation near LCTA plots # 113 and 88 (1992 and 1993).
General habitat: Sharp-shinned hawks prefer dense coniferous forests, especially with P. echinata stands, for nesting (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Uncommon transient and winter resident; rare summer resident, primarily in Ozarks (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Sixteen extant records, primarily from Kritz (1989). The closest nesting occurrence is southeast of FLW in Phelps County (from 1986).
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Pine plantations and mixed pine/hardwood forests are available on FLW for nesting hawks. Portions of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek are bounded by lowland woods. A scarcer breeder than Cooper's hawk, Kritz (1989) located 17 nests during 1985-86 in the south central Ozarks and Ozark border, including Pulaski, Phelps, and Texas counties. All but one of the nests were in P. echinata stands.
Red-shouldered hawk (MO-Watch List)
Survey results: This hawk was observed five times on FLW: two in 1994 and three in 1995. All sightings were made within the breeding period, and two reported juveniles and/or fledgling birds. Additionally, this hawk was often heard calling along the Big Piney River while fish surveys were being conducted.
Previous sightings on FLW: Frequently observed in the bottomlands of the Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek by MAPS personnel: Miller Pond Station (one bird, 1995), Macedonia Station (one bird, 1995), Big Piney Station (two birds, 1993; one bird, 1995), Miller Ridge Station (two birds, 1993; one bird, 1995), Laughlin Bottoms Station (three birds, 1993; two birds, 1995), and Smith Ridge Station (one bird, 1993; one bird, 1995). Active nest found near quarry on Big Piney River in 1992 and 1993.
General habitat: These birds prefer moist, lowland deciduous forests along streams and are almost exclusively found in these areas (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Uncommon permanent resident in the Ozarks and Ozark border, rare in Osage plains, and north central and northeastern section of the glaciated plains. In winter, uncommon along Ozark streams and rivers (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Ten extant records. Most recent nesting record is from FLW surveys.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Improved riparian forests have benefited this species.
Osprey (MO-Extirpated)
Survey results: In 1995, one osprey was observed during spring migration.
Previous sightings on FLW: Observed in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek corridors during migration.
General habitat: This species is usually associated with large lakes, reservoirs, and rivers.
Missouri distribution: Uncommon transient; casual summer visitant, former summer resident; casual winter resident. In the FLW region in the late 1800s, was found along the Gasconade and Osage rivers. However, by 1900 the bird was apparently extirpated or nearly so as a nester (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: One historic nesting record.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: No known recent nesting attempts in Missouri. MDC initiated a hacking program in the state in 1995.
Brown creeper (MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: In 1994, one adult was observed feeding young in Ballard Hollow.
Previous sightings on FLW: In 1992 and 1993, this bird was seen in Big Piney River bottomland near Training Area 70 and near the quarry slough on the Big Piney.
General habitat: Breeds in coniferous or mixed forests and in wooded swampy areas where there are trees with loose or peeling bark (Harrison 1975). Nest is often located beneath a piece of loose bark.
Missouri distribution: Common transient; uncommon winter resident; casual summer resident in the Mississippi lowlands (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Two records, one from FLW.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: This sighting and those made by FLW staff during the breeding months are important observations, as this species is thought to restrict its breeding habitat to southern Missouri.
Bewick's wren (MO-Watch List)
Survey results: During the 1994 breeding season, one singing wren was observed, in the cantonment area of FLW. Indication of possible nesting on FLW.
Previous sightings on FLW: Several sightings made during LCTA surveys in brushy old field successional areas bordering woodland in 1990-1993. Several sightings made by MAPS personnel: Miller Pond Station (two birds, 1993; one bird, 1994; four birds, 1995), Macedonia Station (one bird, 1995), Big Piney Station (four birds, 1995), Laughlin Bottoms Station (one bird, 1993; six birds, 1995).
General habitat: In Missouri, this wren breeds in open, brushy areas near forest edge, and near buildings or equipment in agricultural areas and suburbs beginning in mid-March (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Uncommon summer and rare winter resident in the Ozarks and Ozark border; rare and more local summer resident in Osage plains; casual summer resident and rare transient in glaciated plains (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: One record from FLW.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: It is thought the decrease of Bewick's wren is related to the clearing of brushy habitats as well as clearing of areas around farmsteads. Cowbird parasitism may also play a role. This species is more common in rural areas of the Ozarks.
Marsh wren (MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: One wren was observed foraging near Penns Pond during the fall migration in 1994.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: Only known to breed in marshes (primarily cattail) north of the Missouri River (Robbins and Easterla 1992). Also seen in brush piles and wet fields during migration.
Missouri distribution: Uncommon transient; rare summer resident in north; casual winter resident (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Of two extant records, one is from FLW.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Unlikely that reproducing populations will occur on FLW.
Bell's vireo (MO-Watch List)
Survey results: One observation of this vireo was made during the survey. This bird was seen and heard during the breeding season in breeding habitat, indicating possible nesting on FLW.
Previous sightings on FLW: Numerous sightings near LCTA plots #8, #47, #74, #100, #301, and #301 between 1990 and 1992.
General habitat: Mid-successional upland or lowland shrub habitat, with thickets and brushy hedgerows (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Uncommon summer resident in Osage and western half of glaciated plains, rare elsewhere (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Two extant records.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) data indicate this species has been on a steady decline since the early 1980s. The Breeding Bird Atlas shows high rates of cowbird parasitism. Future surveys may confirm nesting on FLW in small numbers.
Chestnut-sided warbler (MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: Surveys were not directed at this species as it is primarily found in the eastern part of the state. One observation was made during spring migration of 1995, above Big Piney River and near the post golf course.
Previous sightings on FLW: In 1992 and 1993, observed during migration in woodland and forested areas.
General habitat: During migration, woodland and forest; breeds in brushy second growth at forest edge. Early reports indicate it was repeatedly found breeding ineastern Missouri in places with hazel, blackberry, and scrub-oak (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Missouri distribution: Common transient; casual summer resident in east. Probably a more regular breeder in the eastern section of the Ozarks and Ozark border than the few records indicate (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: None.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species, indicating that globally it is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: Unlikely that reproducing populations will occur on FLW.
Cerulean warbler (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Watch List)
Survey results: Four confirmed sightings of this warbler were made during this survey - three in 1994 and one in 1995. Observations were all within accepted breeding safe dates and in suitable breeding habitat. In addition, 12 sightings were made in 1995 along the Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek. These areas are both typical of cerulean warbler nesting habitat. However, the warblers were only identified by song. Although researchers initially were positive of the identification, northern parulas were later heard and seen, giving an unusual call that had been attributed to the cerulean warbler.
Previous sightings on FLW: Several sightings in riparian areas between 1990 and 1993. Several sightings made by MAPS personnel: Big Piney Station (23 birds, 1993; 4 birds, 1994; 4 birds, 1995), Miller Ridge Station (6 birds, 1993; 3 birds, 1994; 2 birds, 1995), Laughlin Bottoms Station (15 birds, 1993; 2 birds, 1994; 1 bird, 1995).
General habitat: Primarily in mature bottomland woodland and forest with nests placed high in a deciduous tree (Boyd 1986).
Missouri distribution: Uncommon summer resident in the Ozarks, Ozark border, and Mississippi lowlands; rare in the glaciated and Osage plains (Robbins and Easterla 1992).
Natural Heritage Database information: Four records, all from FLW.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranked this as a G4 species, indicating that globally it is widespread, abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern.
Comments: BBS information indicates this species declined in abundance at an average annual rate of 4.24 percent between 1966 and 1994. However, due to the limited field effort in riparian areas by these surveys, this species may be under counted. Suitable nesting habitat is available on FLW due to the extensive riparian corridors along portions of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek.
Objective 5 - Floral Inventory of Falls Hollow Sandstone Glades
Before this project, no known floristic survey had been undertaken at Falls Hollow. Forty-one field trips were taken to Falls Hollow between 1 April and 23 October 1994. Falls Hollow was visited at least once a week, sometimes twice a week, depending on the time of year; each glade was visited on all field trips to Falls Hollow. In addition, other high quality areas on FLW were visited every 2 weeks.
The flora of Falls Hollow is represented by 5 divisions, 63 families, 167 genera, and 215 species of vascular plants, 5 species of bryophytes, and 6 species of lichens. The results of the floristic inventory conducted at Falls Hollow can be found in Table 22. Locations of the four glades are shown in Figure 8. For a more complete discussion of the floristic inventory, see Hays (1996).
The plants located at Falls Hollow are those expected in a glade community of sandstone substrate. No known plant species are endemic to Roubidoux sandstone. Three listed species, Silene regia, Federal-formerly 3C, MO-Watch List; Sporobolus ozarkanus, Federal-formerly 3C, MO-Status Undetermined; and Trifolium reflexum var. reflexum, MO-Status Undetermined; were found at Falls Hollow. Accounts of these plants are presented under Objective 7.
One additional small sandstone glade was located east of the three glades identified at Falls Hollow by Ryan (1992). The largest of the sandstone glades at Falls Hollow is the most heavily disturbed of the four glades present (Hays 1996). The disturbance is primarily due to gravel wash and soil deposition associated with the maintenance of the road running east of Range 22. This glade does have a high native species composition, but a number of species associated with disturbance are also represented. The three smaller glades are of better quality, having had less disturbance. Almost all of the plants on these three glades are native and expected on the droughty conditions common to glades.
Thirty-eight new plant taxa were added to the known flora of Pulaski County (Table 23). A number of these species are common and probably have been overlooked by collectors. These new taxa are located throughout FLW. Voucher specimens were deposited at the Missouri Botanical Garden Herbarium, St. Louis.
Figure 8. Location and designation of Falls Hollow sandstone glades (SG1-SG4), FLW - Bloodland, MO Quadrangle.
Objective 6 - Falls Hollow Sandstone Glade Natural Area Evaluation
Falls Hollow and Solomon Hollow on the Mark Twain National Forest were visited on 28 April 1995 by Karen Kramer (MDC, Natural Areas Coordinator), Lynda Richards (USFS), Steve Thurman (FLW Forester), and Hillary Loring (MDC Natural History Biologist). The purpose of this visit was to assess the quality of the two areas and their potential as Missouri Natural Areas. (A designated Natural Area represents the best example of a specific community within each Natural Division.) Both sites are classified as Significant Roubidoux sandstone glades and of Grade B quality. It was hoped that one of the sites would qualify for nomination as a state Natural Area as the best example of a sandstone glade on Roubidoux formation in the upper Ozark Section of the Ozark Natural Division.
Solomon Hollow
Solomon Hollow is a series of glades apparently caused by the intermittent surfacing of a particular rock stratum. It is surrounded by an exceptional quality forest, much of which consists of savanna remnants. Large open-grown trees are scattered within a younger-aged matrix. If a significant forest buffer could be secured, the potential for savanna restoration, combined with glade management, would make Solomon Hollow a very appealing Natural Area. Although the glades themselves are small, their combined area is probably larger than that of the Falls Hollow glade complex. The glade area is reasonably accessible and convenient to Rolla.
Falls Hollow
The largest sandstone glade at Falls Hollow is a more cohesive glade than those at Solomon Hollow. However, the glades themselves make up only an approximate four acres. Falls Hollow has long been recognized as an interesting geologic feature (Beveridge 1980). The exposed stratum of Roubidoux sandstone at the main glade appears thicker than that at Solomon Hollow and seems to erode differently. The largest glade at Falls Hollow has been heavily disturbed, and weedy native and exotic plants are common. Additionally, few plants considered conservative for glades occur on Falls Hollow. The three smaller glades are of higher quality, have fewer weedy plants, and are relatively undisturbed. Currently, Falls Hollow does not have a buffer zone around it. The glades are bordered by an active firing range and young low-quality woods. There may be potential for some savanna restoration in the canyon below the glades.
Additional factors precluding Falls Hollow sandstone glades from nomination to the Missouri Natural Areas Program include: (1) gravel, trash, and mud wash onto the glade from roads that border the area; thus depositing seeds of exotic species, and (2) public access to Falls Hollow is difficult because of its proximity to an active firing range.
Due to these factors and the existence of another glade on Roubidoux sandstone located in the more readily accessible and protected Mark Twain National Forest, Falls Hollow sandstone glades does not meet the required conditions to be a Missouri Natural Area. However, this is a unique area and should be managed and protected.
Objective 7 - Federally and State-Listed Plant and Exemplary Natural Community Surveys
Listed Plants
Four of a possible 54 plants of conservation concern were identified as possibly occurring on FLW (Table 24). Site locations are presented in Table 25 and Figure 9. A discussion of each listed species identified on FLW is presented under Listed Plant Species Accounts.
Figure 9. Location of Federally and state-listed plants on FLW.
Although 51 of the 54 listed plants were not located, failure to find them does not mean they are not present on FLW. Further survey work may find some of these species occurring on the installation.
Two additional listed species have previously been identified on FLW. Crotonopsis linearis, a Missouri-Status Undetermined species, was identified on the west side of Roubidoux Creek, south of Cookville, in 1932. This record was made by J. Steyermark and was included in the NHD due to a herbarium specimen on the Field Museum in Chicago (Steyermark #4852, 7 August 1932). Searches by B. Summers in 1991 and J. Hays in 1994 were unsuccessful at relocating this occurrence. This plant is most often found in dry, sandy soils. As noted by Skinner (1991), Steyermark does not map a Pulaski County record for Crotonopsis linearis in Flora of Missouri (1963).
The second listed species previously identified on FLW is Nemastylis nuttallii, a MO-Status Undetermined species. Bill Summers found this species on FLW in 1991 during the Natural Features Inventory of the area (Ryan 1992). He found four fruiting plants approximately 0.5 miles south of Macedonia Cemetery. However, he did not collect a voucher specimen, and a return search in 1994 by J. Hays was unsuccessful. Nemastylis nuttallii is often found on limestone glades, cherty open woods above limestone slopes along stream bluffs; also found in Quercus stellata/Q. alba, Andropogon covered bluffs in the southeast corner of Missouri (Steyermark 1963).
Listed Plant Species Accounts
Sporobolus ozarkanus (Federal-formerly 3C; MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: Found at three sites on Falls Hollow glades on Roubidoux sandstone. Approximately 25 plants were located on sites characterized as having poor soil with large fragments of sandstone.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This species generally occurs on limestone or dolomite glades, cherty openings in woods, fields, along railroads, and waste ground (Steyermark 1963).
Missouri distribution: Mostly in the Ozark region.
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 30 records for S. ozarkanus in Missouri, all occurring within the Ozark Natural Division. Twenty-onerecords are extant and nine are historic. Three high quality populations are known from nearby locations in Phelps County.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species with questionable taxonomy. Globally this species is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure. It is now recognized as a species, rather than a hybrid, and recently described characteristic needed for proper identification are being used to locate additional populations.
Comments: This study produced the first report of this species from FLW and from Pulaski County.
Trifolium reflexum var. reflexum (MO-Status Undetermined)
Survey results: Found at Falls Hollow glades on Roubidoux sandstone and near Cedar Hill Cemetery glades above Roubidoux Creek along a ridge-top road on dolomite.
Previous sightings on FLW: None.
General habitat: This species occurs in rocky open woods, glades, fallow fields, and prairies, usually in acid soils (Steyermark 1963).
Missouri distribution: Located in the Ozark section of southern and central Missouri.
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 126 records for T. reflexum var. reflexum in Missouri - 73 extant and 53 historic records. Three extant records are near FLW.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G5 species with taxonomic questions. Globally this species is demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure.
Comments: This species is new to FLW. Additional populations probably exist.
Juglans cinerea (Federal-formerly C2; MO-Watch List)
Survey results: Found in several drainages on FLW. All stands showed signs of disease. Survey results are described under Objective 8.
Previous sightings on FLW: Known from several drainages.
General habitat: J. cinerea occurs in rich woods along the base of slopes or bluffs, and along streams (Steyermark 1963).
Missouri distribution: Statewide.
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 91 records, 89 of which are extant, for J. cinerea in Missouri. These occurrences are primarily located in the southern half of the state.
Rangewide status: This species was proposed for Federal listing and is on the Missouri Watch List due to the recent devastation to the species, throughout its range in North America, by a fungus, Sirococcus clavigignenti-juglandacearum. The Nature Conservancy ranks this species as a G4 species, indicating that globally it is widespread, abundant, and apparently secure, but with cause for long-term concern.
Comments: Due to the widespread prevalence of the fungus, the future looks bleak for J. cinerea.
Silene regia (Federal-formerly 3C; MO-Watch List)
Survey results: Two new sites were found for this species on FLW. One site was near Falls Hollow glade on Roubidoux sandstone, and the other on a small, north facing dolomite opening above Roubidoux Creek. S. regia was in flower at both sites.
Previous sightings on FLW: One site in 1989 on bluffs above Roubidoux Creek. However, due to inaccuracies in voucher specimen labeling [see Skinner (1991) for discussion], this record was not included in the NHD. Return visits to the suspected location by J. Hays in 1994 were unsuccessful at locating this species.
General habitat: Rocky prairies, rocky open woods, thickets, and borders of rocky glades (Steyermark 1963).
Missouri distribution: Ozark Plateau and Springfield Plateau.
Natural Heritage Database information: The NHD contains 221 records for S. regia in Missouri, and with only a few exceptions, most are located in the Ozark Natural Division. Ninety-three records are extant, 25 are historic, and 3 have been destroyed.
Rangewide status: The Nature Conservancy ranks this as a G3 species, indicating that globally it is rare or uncommon.
Comments: This species appears to be secure in Missouri.
Additional Surveys of Listed Plants
Several other botanical surveys or field work requiring plant identification have been conducted on FLW. One study was specifically directed at rare plants (Skinner 1991), and two included plant identification as part of their project (Harland Bartholomew and Associates, Inc. 1995b; Johnson et al. 1990).
Skinner (1991) found three listed species during his survey: Juglans cinerea, Nemastylis nuttallii, and Silene regia. Skinner (1991) attempted to verify the seven state-listed plants identified by Johnson et al. (1990). He was unable to verify any of these plants due to lack of voucher specimens, misidentification by the 1990 study, incorrect taxonomy, or presence due to ornamental plantings.
The Wetland Inventory of FLW (Harland Bartholomew and Associates, Inc. 1995b) identified four species of plants included in the Checklist of Rare and Endangered Species of Missouri (MDC 1995). Unfortunately, vouchers were not taken of these plants during the wetland inventory. An attempt to verify these records was made on a visit to the locations for three of the species on 11 July 1995.
Carex aquatilis var. aquatilis - MO-Endangered. Failed to relocate species. However, numerous other Carex spp. were observed on the site, suggesting plants were misidentified in the field.
Juncus balticus var. littoralis - MO-Endangered. Failed to relocate species. It was listed as a dominant species on three sites. However, numerous other Juncus spp. were observed on the sites, suggesting plants were misidentified in the field.
Scirpus americanus - MO-Extirpated. Identified from one site. Populations of plants were found that keyed out to S. americanus (Steyermark 1963). However, according to Yatskievych and Turner (1990) the plant Steyermark identified as S. americanus is now classified as S. pungens, which is a common plant in Missouri. The listed S. americanus was formerly known as S. olneyi. The plant cited in the wetlands inventory was probably the more common species, identified using the older nomenclature.
Viburnum lentago (Nannyberry) - MO-Endangered. It was not possible to return to where this species was collected, as site information was unavailable.
Exemplary Natural Communities Survey
As a result of varying degrees of disturbance from past land-use practices, few high quality natural communities occur on FLW (Figure 10). Since its establishment in 1941, some portions of FLW have not been used for training activities or developed, and although not high quality, plant communities are recovering from previous land use. However, the mission of FLW is to train soldiers and engineers for battle. Training exercises often require use of tracked vehicles and demolitions, and neither practice is conducive to the existence of exemplary natural communities.
Exemplary natural communities not already noted by Ryan (1992) or Skinner (1991) were not found. Numerous small dolomite glades are located along Roubidoux Creek, Big Piney River, and several of their tributaries (Hays 1995; Skinner 1991). However, the majority of these glades are extremely small and are encroached upon by woody vegetation. Plant composition on these glades is similar, and based on the plants present, these glades are of C/B quality.
Ryan (1992) and Skinner (1991) found only four high quality natural communities on FLW. These four natural communities were ranked either as Significant or Notable:
1. Falls Hollow sandstone glades. T34N R11W S22 N2. Significant. Ca. four acres in three glades. Grade B. (A community is given a Grade B natural quality if it has the following characteristics: late successional or lightly disturbed; recently but lightly disturbed, or moderately disturbed in the past but now recovered; diversity has not been greatly reduced. For a glade, this means that it has light to moderate weedy or woody invasion.) This community was described under Objective 5 in this chapter.
2. Pond marsh. T35N R11W S20, Notable. Ca. four acres. Grade C+. (A community is given a Grade C if it has the following characteristics: mid-successional, moderate to heavily disturbed communities; moderate recent disturbance or heavy past disturbance; original structure changed and diversity lowered. For a pond marsh, this may mean that the area has been repeatedly drained. The "+" indicates the pond marsh tends to Grade B.) This community exhibited moderate diversity; disturbance form nearby roads increases occurrence of non-native weedy vegetation. Common species include Cephalanthus occidentalis, Hybiscus spp., and Scirpus spp. The pond is damp in dry years. This community does not meet the current standards to be included in the NHD.
Figure 10. Location of high quality natural communities on FLW.
3. Dry-mesic chert forest. T35N R11W S36 E2 and T35N R10W S31 W2. Notable. Ca. 300 acres. Grade C. Mature to old-second growth. Not quite 90 years old. No recent disturbances. Small acreage of bottomland creek and dolomite cliff with glade edges add to diversity. Tree cores of several Quercus species (Q. alba, Q. rubra, Q. velutina) are all 65+ years old. Dominant canopy species include Juglans nigra, Quercus stellata, Q. velutina, Q. alba, Carya tomentosa, C. texana, and Ulmus rubra. Understory and ground flora includes: Prunus serotina, Corylus americana, Cornus spp., Lindera benzoin, Staphylea trifolia, Acer saccharum, Chasmanthium latifolium, Eupatorium spp., and Polystichumacrostichoides. This community does not meet the current standards to be included in the NHD.
4. Dry limestone/dolomite cliff. T35N R10W S32 NE4NE4 and S33 W2NW4. Along Big Piney River. Notable. Approximately 0.75 mi long, 250 ft high. Grade B-. Cliff with gladey blufftop and ledges, small wooded cove, and talus slopes. Good diversity of habitats on a tall bluff. Common species include Pinus echinata, Quercus stellata, Q. prinoides, Cornus florida, Cercis canadensis, Schizachyrium scoparium, Aster spp., Petalostemon spp., Liatris cylindracea, Solidago nemoralis, and Rudbeckia missouriensis.
Ryan (1992) identified Big Piney River as an Exceptional Small River aquatic community. However, two dams occur within the boundaries of FLW. The northern most dam (at East Gate Bridge) has been circumvented by a high-water flow channel west of the dam. The dam near the pumphouse blocks movement of fish upstream during much of the year, thereby impacting aquatic species composition upstream of the pumphouse.
Principle Natural Community Types
Although the primary focus of this inventory was to locate Federally and state-listed species on FLW, some understanding of the natural communities within which rare species populations occur is useful in understanding habitat and management needs of the species in question. Knowledge of natural communities present also assists biologists in their search for rare and endangered species, allowing them to predict or anticipate which species they can expect to find in a given area. However, a comprehensive survey of natural communities present on FLW was beyond the scope of this project. Determining all natural communities present would require a sub stantial investment of effort, including the collection of quantitative data.
FLW has several main natural communities types. Proffitt (1994) estimated that, today, 71.8 percent of FLW is covered with deciduous forest, with pine plantations accounting for an additional 6.2 percent of the land cover. Other habitats represented on FLW include prairie openings, limestone glades, sandstone glades, riparian forests, and abandoned farm fields in the process of reverting to forest cover.
The USFS developed an Ecological Land Classification for its forests (USFS 1981a, 1981b). This system is based on three elements: soils, landtype, and vegetation, which are used to predict potential natural vegetation and natural community types. FLW is within the Rolla-Houston Forest District, and Landtype Associations (LTA), and Ecological Landtypes (ELT) within each association are available for the region. Information used to describe this classification system and the probable natural communities present on FLW is taken from the USFS description of its classification system (USFS 1981a, 1981b). The USFS primarily used natural communities as described by Nelson (1987) in its Ecological Land Classification system.
FLW is located within two LTAs: Oak-Hickory Hills (Limestone) and Oak-Hickory Plains (Limestone), with the former occurring primarily along the edges of FLW, and the latter in the interior on the plateau between Roubidoux Creek and Big Piney River. The parent material, limestone, is described as consisting of cherty dolomitic limestone with sandstone layers contributing no more than 35 percent of the total. The USFS chose to call the parent material limestone, rather than the more appropriate dolomite, because limestone is a more familiar term. However, as FLW is located on geologic formations that consist of dolomite, the term "dolomite" will be substituted here for the USFS's "limestone."
Both FLW LTAs have the same 18 ELTs. A brief description of each ELT along with its associated natural community is presented in Table 26. Each ELT is uniquely numbered and is the same across all Landtype Associations. State conservation ranks (S ranks) are used by the Missouri NHD to assign a conservation status to a given community type or species, with S1 indicating the most rare and imperiled to S5 indicating abundance and lack of threats.
At this hierarchical level, the land classification system does not include terrestrial wetlands or cave communities. This exclusion may be due to the small size of wetlands occurring within the Ozarks Natural Division. An ELT is typically between 1/10 to 1 sq mi; very few wetlands in the Ozarks are this large.
The USFS (1981b), based on topographic map sampling, determined the percentage of each ELT in a given LTA for lands in all ownership occurring within the Rolla-Houston Forest District. The ELTs with the greatest percentage of occurrence in the Oak-Hickory Hills (Limestone) and Oak-Hickory Plains (Limestone) associations are presented in Table 27.
From this information, it is conjectured that the most prevalent non-wetland natural community types on FLW are chert savanna, dry chert forest, and dry-mesic chert forest, which are located throughout FLW, and dry bottomland forest and mesic bottomland forests located along the riparian corridors. Based on cursory site evaluations, these communities are prevalent throughout the FLW landscape.
The Natural Feature Inventory of the FLW region identified dry-mesic chert forests, dry-mesic and bottomland forests, and dolomite and sandstone glades on FLW (Ryan 1992). Most were considered poor quality due to logging, grazing, or invasion ofwoody and non-native plants. Additionally, the wetland inventory (Harland Bartholomew and Associates, Inc. 1995b) identified numerous flood plain forests occurring along the riparian corridors on FLW.
Eight wetland types, based upon hydrology, hydric soils, and hydrophytic vegetation, were identified on FLW during the wetland inventory of 1993-1994. Wetland types and the corresponding natural community as described by Nelson (1987) are presented in Table 28.
Bottomland hardwood forests are the most abundant wetlands on FLW. These wetlands are associated with flood plains. The best examples occur along Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek.
Shallow fresh marshes are located throughout FLW and are not specific to a given region of the installation. These wetlands are small and often associated with the shallow margin of manmade ponds, with seepage zones below dams, and with stand ing water in old tire ruts and old bomb craters. Although Harland Bartholomew and Associates (1995b) compared these to Nelson's (1987) freshwater marsh, fens, and deep muck fens, further analysis of the plant community, and size and location of each wetland is not typical of those described by Nelson (1987). Freshwater marshes, fens, and especially deep muck fens are relatively rare throughout Missouri and are not generally considered common in the Ozarks.
Shrub swamps occurred mostly along sluggish streams, in wet depressions, and on stream flood plain in the headwaters of larger ponds on the installation.
Shrub flats occurred along the broader flood plain of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek and along the edges of several manmade ponds and reservoirs.
Wet meadows occurred in shallow depressions on flat terrain, and most were very small.
Gravel bars are located in drainages throughout FLW. However, only those supporting vegetation are considered wetland; thus, the actual number and acreage is probably under-reported.
Deep fresh marshes occurred primarily along the deeper marshes of manmade ponds, and in old bomb craters.
Springs were divided into two phases: (1) aquatic - permanently flooded and (2) terrestrial - associated with groundwater seep or discharge areas. Aquatic phase springs (e.g., Stone Mill Spring) are rare on FLW. Terrestrial phase springs(Turnbull Hollow spring, Musgrave Hollow spring) are common throughout the installation and were often overlooked likely due to their small size.
Caves
Cave natural communities are common on FLW. Forty-five caves are known to occur on the installation (Oesch and Oesch 1986). Nelson (1987) described five cave natural communities: effluent, influent, dry pit, wet pit, and dry.
Community Rarity
Based on predicted terrestrial communities (LTA-ELT) and actual wetland communities identified on FLW and their respective suggested state conservation statuses, the following communities on FLW have state significance and should be protected from disturbance: wet-mesic bottomland forest (S2), chert savanna (S1), and all wetlands with the exception of pond marsh communities, which are well represented on the Missouri landscape. These natural communities are threatened throughout Missouri, due to anthropogenic land uses and, if possible, should be protected and enhanced through sound land management practices and proactive land-use planning.
Objective 8 - Juglans cinerea Survey
Juglans cinerea trees are being killed throughout their 26 state range by Sirococcus clavigignenti-juglandacearum, a fungus that causes branch and stem cankers, which eventually girdle the tree causing death. J. cinerea occurs on FLW and diseased trees are present. The main purpose of this survey was to determine the extent of infection within populations of J. cinerea on FLW. Although this was not designed as an all-inclusive survey of the J. cinerea of FLW, a better estimate of the occurrence of this species on FLW was a secondary objective.
While J. cinerea is the only known natural host for the fungus, J. nigra and other Juglans species have been infected through artificial inoculation procedures (Sinclair, Lyon, and Johnson 1987). The potential spread of the fungus to these species carries heavy economic importance. J. cinerea was formerly considered a valuable tree for its wood, nuts, and landscape potential throughout the northeastern United States (Ostry, Mielke, and Skilling 1994).
The presence of the fungus is visually indicated by dark brown elliptical lesions, areas of bark uplifted by hyphal pegs, and brownish-black stains where degraded inner bark has oozed to the surface. Adventitious sprouts commonly grow from theedges of cankers on trunks or limbs and at the base of severely infected trees. These sprouts are usually short-lived due to rapid infection by the fungus. The disease is known to be spread by conidia which are extruded during wet weather and dispersed by splashing rain. A long-distance dispersal method is still unknown (Sinclair, Lyon, and Johnson 1987).
J. cinerea grows best on well-drained, gravelly soil on stream benches and terraces. It also occurs on dry, rocky soils, especially those of limestone origin. J. cinerea is seldom found on dry, compact, or infertile soils (Fowells 1965).
J. cinerea trees were found at 10 of the 19 areas examined (Table 25; Figure 9). Data were collected on 102 live J. cinerea trees (Table 29). All but two of the trees exhibited cankers or other indications of fungal disease. All of the J. cinerea had some amount of canopy dieback. Since the survey was conducted in winter, active oozing of cankers was not seen.
Trees occurred on five soil types: Cedargap cherty silt loam, Clarksville-Gepp very cherty silt loam, Gepp-Rock outcrop complex, Gepp-Bardley-Clarksville very cherty silt loam, and Nolin silt loam (Wolf 1989). J. cinerea were found in areas underlain by both the Gasconade and Roubidoux formations (Missouri Geological Survey 1961). The one area examined that was underlain by the Jefferson City-Cotter Formation yielded no J. cinerea This bedrock occurs above the Roubidoux Formation and occupies the broad upland areas. J. cinerea on FLW more commonly occurs in a lower, more dissected landscape.
Young trees were scarce. Two young and apparently healthy trees were noted at the Cedar Hill Cemetery site. Young trees were also recorded at the Tunnel Hollow site along with the largest J. cinerea noted in the survey. The health of this large tree was difficult to determine.
Recommendations
The future looks bleak for J. cinerea. There is no way to stop the spread of the fungus attacking the tree, and most trees appear to be infected and will probably die eventually. Actively growing trees with old cankers may indicate disease resistance and should be inspected every few years. Three areas that might warrant re-examination are Cedar Hill Cemetery, Musgrave Hollow, and Tunnel Hollow. Each of these sites contained comparatively large and multi-aged populations.
Objective 9 - Federally Endangered Species and Other Listed Species Not Included in Field Surveys
Gray Bat
Gray bats primarily use FLW during the summer breeding period (April-October). Only a few individuals have been noted hibernating in any of the caves on the installation. One maternity and several transient gray bat caves occur on FLW. These caves are located along Roubidoux Creek, on the west side of the installation. Significant maternity caves are surveyed biennially by Rick Clawson (MDC Wildlife Research Biologist). Wildlife biologists with FLW's Natural Resources Branch survey caves on FLW with R. Clawson's assistance. Transient caves are inspected on a less frequent basis and were inventoried in 1994 by MDC-Natural History Division staff.
The gray bat appears to be increasing throughout its range, and may eventually have its Federal conservation status upgraded to Threatened. Although numbers of bats observed on FLW do show fluctuations over the years, the population appears stable presently. FLW has established Endangered bat management zones around significant bat caves.
Indiana Bat
One hibernaculum occurs on FLW. This cave is near the center of the installation. All significant Indiana bat hibernacula in Missouri are surveyed biennially. Since the 1970s, this cave has shown a drop in Indiana bats from approximately 19,500 to 750 bats in 1995. This number represents a 96 percent drop in the population. However, Indiana bats throughout Missouri have shown a marked decrease in population size, from approximately 227,225 to 29,920 bats. This number is an 87 percent decrease in the population.
Three additional caves on FLW are known to harbor hibernating Indiana bats. None of these caves are considered major hibernacula, and Indiana bat populations ranged from 29 to 135 bats. As with gray bat caves, all Indiana bat caves are included in the NHD of Missouri.
Numerous reasons for the population decline have been proposed. Two reasons most often suggested are pesticides (through direct and indirect pathways) and lack of summer breeding habitat. Overall, Indiana bats are declining range wide. However, several states within the range of Indiana bats have seen their state populations increase over the last few years. Research is ongoing to determine the reason(s) for this species' decline.
Prior to the 3/D Environmental (1996) study, Indiana bats were not known to occur on FLW during the summer months. Biologists thought females of this species used wooded riparian and upland areas north of the Missouri River for summer breeding habitat. Indiana bats roost under exfoliating bark or in snags. However, three Indiana bats, one pregnant, one lactating, and one male, were captured in mist nets on FLW during the summer months of 1994. This indicates Indiana bats are reproducing and foraging on FLW during the summer months, and are a concern year round.
Bat Cave Protection on FLW
All caves known to harbor gray bats or Indiana bats are protected on FLW. Restrictions were established to minimize disturbance either directly to the bats or to the surrounding foraging area. See Proffitt (1994) and the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan 1993-1997 (Ecological Services Center n.d.) for a description of these management guidelines.
Caves are protected by: (1) restricting cave access during bat reproductive or hiber nating periods, (2) maintaining contiguous forest in the 20 acres immediately sur rounding cave entrances, (3) maintaining wooded travel corridors to foraging areas (primarily riparian zones for gray bats; riparian and upland forests for Indiana bats) and summer Indiana bat roosting habitat, and (4) varying levels of restrictions to disruptive activities during critical times.
Bald Eagle
Although not found in the large numbers associated with reservoirs and major rivers, wintering bald eagles do occur on FLW along portions of Roubidoux Creek (primarily in the southwest portion of the installation) and Big Piney River. These areas are used for roosting and foraging by the wintering raptors (3D/Environmental 1996). Wintering bald eagles are also known to occur along portions of these two streams off of FLW and on the Gasconade River. To date, no pair of bald eagles is known to have attempted nesting within the boundaries of FLW. However, as the number of bald eagle pairs nesting in Missouri continues to increase, it may only be a matter of time before they attempt to nest on FLW. Suitable habitat and nest trees exist along Roubidoux Creek and the Big Piney River flood plain on FLW.
American Burying Beetle
This species is listed as Endangered both Federally and by Missouri. Although this carrion beetle was last reported from Missouri in the 1980s (USFWS 1991), recent discoveries in Oklahoma and Arkansas (LeDoux, research associate, Univ. ofMissouri-Columbia, pers. comm.) indicate this species may still exist in Missouri. Historical records indicate this species tends to prefer open or riparian deciduous or scrub forests with grasses and sedges dominating the understory. This type of habitat exists at FLW.
Field surveys of suitable habitat should be conducted to determine the occurrence of this species on FLW. Surveys are best conducted during the summer months and involve pit-fall traps and with rotting meat as bait (LeDoux pers. comm.).
Other Federally and State-Listed Species
Several state-listed mammals occur on FLW. Proffitt (1994) collected specimens of eastern wood rat, golden mouse, and long-tailed weasel. Eastern small-footed myotis were captured in 1994 during mist net surveys by 3/D Environmental (1996).
Objective 10 - Biological Diversity and Ecosystem Management Recommendations
FLW is an active military installation and current land-use practices do not appear to impinge on its expected biological diversity. Several studies, in addition to this one, have added to the plants and animal species known to occur on FLW (Johnson et al. 1990; Proffitt 1994; DeSante, Walker, and Burton 1994; 3/D Environmental 1996; MAPS unpub. data). With a few exceptions, and given available suitable habitat, species of mussels, crayfish, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, and plants occurring on FLW represent what is expected to occur in this region of the Ozarks.
Although species lists from FLW suggest that biological diversity is relatively intact and generally consistent with the Upper Ozarks, species richness is a narrow assessment of biological diversity. Presence alone is not an indication that plant and animal populations are healthy and viable. Without information on population structure, it is only possible to make inferences regarding the biological integrity of the area. For example, habitat fragmentation can create "population sinks" for some species or groups of species. Whether the existing habitats at FLW are sufficiently managed to maintain the present level of biological diversity is not known for much of the flora and fauna.
Freshwater mussel communities of portions of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek sampled during this study have the expected level of species richness. All mussel species expected to occur in these streams (Oesch 1984; Buchanan pers. comm.) were located and several new species were discovered for both streams. Mussel beds ongBig Piney River were relatively diverse, usually 9 to 11 species; however, numbers were not always very high. Also, more live mussels were found on areas sampled outside of the boundaries of FLW than within the installation's boundaries. Additionally, very few young mussels were found anywhere on Big Piney River. These observations may represent sampling bias or lower species abundance and reproduction on FLW. The two dams on the Big Piney River on FLW may have affected stream conditions (i.e., water flow and depth, temperature, turbidity, substrate stability, fish host movements), thereby leading to poorer habitat conditions and fewer mussels. Roubidoux Creek had fewer species and numbers; however, this variance was expected due to the losing nature of much of the creek. Often all that remains in dry years are several large pools.
Four species of crayfish are known from the FLW area. Two stream species, spothanded and golden crayfish, occur in Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek. Both species were collected in high numbers from all streams sampled. Addition ally, the capture of many young crayfish of these two species and the observation of specimens in all age classes is evidence of healthy levels of reproduction. Although not located during the survey, the Salem cave crayfish occurs in nearby Roubidoux Spring. As portions of FLW are within the recharge area of this spring, this crayfish may occur on FLW. Chimneys of devil crayfish were not noted on FLW. However, as this species is relatively common, and suitable habitat is available on the installation, it likely occurs on FLW.
Fish species collected in portions of Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek on FLW are comparable to those collected in the same streams by other biologists (Fleener et al. 1974a; Pflieger 1974 and 1975). Although large game fish (e.g., suckers, catfish) were not as well represented in the collections as in previous studies, this is primarily due to sampling bias. If more time had been spent using electro shocking equipment, more large game fish undoubtedly would have been collected. Additionally, species composition based on collections from headwater streams on the installation (i.e., Turnbull, Musgrave, McGann, Falls, Ballard, and Hurd hollows and East Gate Tributary) are consistent with those of similar order streams in the Ozark Faunal Region (Pflieger 1989). Young-of-the-year of many fish species were captured in all streams sampled. Overall, fish communities in the streams sampled on FLW appeared relatively intact.
Based on species richness, FLW appears to provide suitable habitat for those species of amphibians and reptiles expected to occur in the Upper Ozarks (Johnson 1992). With the exception of several large snakes and hard to catch aquatic turtles, representatives were found of all species commonly occurring in the Upper Ozarks Division. Several listed species (eastern hellbender, eastern collared lizard, four-toed salamander) were not located on FLW, primarily due to lack of suitable habitat. However, these species have a patchy rangewide distribution and specialized habitat requirements. Larval forms and eggs of many amphibians and reptiles were observed on FLW, indicating that these species are reproducing and their populations are relatively healthy.
The bird community on FLW also appears intact. Over 190 species are known to use FLW during the year, either for nesting or migration, and many are year-round residents. These species are consistent with what is expected to occur in the Ozarks. Bird census information for breeding birds from the surrounding Mark Twain National Forest (USFS unpub. data.) indicates that species composition of the two areas is similar (although FLW appears to have more individuals of edge species than Mark Twain National Forest), implying that current land-use practices on FLW are not detrimental to birds. Additionally, available habitat offers a mosaic of different forest community structures.
Although this project did not include a survey of mammals on FLW, based upon personal observations and information from LCTA mammal trapping (Proffitt 1994), species expected to occur in this portion of the state are present on the installation (with the exception of several large predators or herbivores). Although historically occurring in the Ozarks, black bears, gray wolves, mountain lion, elk, and bison no longer occur on FLW. Black bears recently moved into Missouri from Arkansas, and may eventually occur on the installation.
Plant lists compiled by Johnson et al. (1990), Proffitt (1994), and Hays (1995) are indicative of the Ozarkian flora. However, numerous exotics occur throughout the installation, reflecting its agricultural past and current land-use practices. Exotics were planted for forage pasture and as ornamentals. They have also spread by accidental introduction from seeds carried by vehicles. Land disturbance also leads to changes in plant communities. Species intolerant of substrate disturbance are often replaced by tolerant species. Often, these tolerant species are not associated with the original plant community.
Biological diversity on a species level (based on species presence) appears relatively intact on FLW. However, on a landscape scale, natural community diversity has undoubtedly declined. Past land-use patterns, such as timber harvests and agricultural practices, and alteration of processes responsible for historic conditions (e.g., wildfire), have produced a landscape much different than what was historically present in the Ozarks. For example, prairies no longer occur on FLW, and glades and savannas are overgrown. Thus, natural communities occurring on the landscape do not reflect a healthy system. This occurrence is generally due to a loss of structure, natural processes, and invasion of both native and exotic species not belonging to the community.
Historically, the Upper Ozarks included both open park-like woodlands and dense forest cover (Biodiversity Task Force 1992). Savanna conditions occurred on broken terrain in the drier areas and consisted of oak and oak-pine stands with an open understory and a dense herbaceous ground flora of prairie grasses and wildflowers. Dense, closed canopy forests with a well developed understory occurred in the bottomlands and on adjacent slopes. Small bedrock exposed areas supported glade and cliff natural communities. The karst topography of the region created caves, sinkhole ponds, springs, and fen natural communities. Streams were cold and clear, free flowing, had a stable substrate, and were bordered by wide strips of bottomland forests.
With the exception of cave and cliff natural communities, few natural communities in the Ozarks have retained the biological integrity and diversity associated with their presettlement condition. The open savanna and dry-mesic upland forests now have a more closed canopy, a denser understory, and less herbaceous growth. Bottomland forests cleared for agricultural practices are less diverse, younger, and occupy fewer acres than historic conditions. Glades have been overgrown by the surrounding forests, and woody vegetation has become extensive. Sinkhole ponds, springs, and fens were degraded by livestock, and many no longer have the same vegetative communities. Streams have suffered from increased erosion, unstable substrate, siltation, impoundments, and loss of protective bottomland forest. The altered conditions of these landscapes resulted in a change in both plant and animal species composition, and a loss of biological diversity.
Loss of biological diversity is best addressed on the landscape rather than species scale. By restoring the landscape conditions, the framework is laid for species to increase or be reintroduced. The habitat requirements of most species lost from the landscape will be addressed through ecosystem manipulation. Those species that do not respond to landscape and natural community restoration can be dealt with individually.
Landscape Management Recommendations
Too many natural communities exist on FLW to address the biological integrity of each one. However, by combining species groups and natural communities into broad landscape associations, it is possible to assess the health and biological diversity of these associations on FLW. Landscape associations that will be discussed are:
1. Floodplain and rivers. Natural communities present in this category include bottomland forests and gravel wash. This category corresponds to the RiparianBluffs and Waterway Corridors, and portions of the Forested River Hills Physiographic Land Management Zones (Ecological Services Center n.d.).
2. Forest and glades. Natural communities present in this category include mesic forest, dry and dry-mesic chert forest, dry and xeric dolomite forest, and dolomite glades. This category corresponds to the Upland Forested Hills and portions of the Forested River Hills Physiographic Land Management Zones (Ecological Services Center n.d.).
3. Savanna and open land. Natural communities present in this category include dry chert savanna and prairie. This category corresponds to the Upland Rolling Hills and Savanna Physiographic Land Management Zones (Ecological Services Center n.d.).
4. Other communities. Natural communities present in this category include caves, cliffs, springs, seeps, sinkhole ponds, and wetlands. There is no corresponding Physiographic Land Management Zone.
Biological Diversity of Landscape Associations
Floodplain and rivers. With the exception of questions posed regarding species abundance of freshwater mussels in portions of Big Piney River within the boundaries of FLW, aquatic communities appear intact. Species of fish, mussels, crayfish, aquatic amphibians and reptiles, and mammals associated with streams, including common species (bleeding shiner, largescale stoneroller, green sunfish, ellipse, broken-ray mussels, spothanded crayfish, golden crayfish, bull frog, common map turtle, musk turtle, softshell turtles, muskrat) and listed species (bluestripe darter, blacknose shiner, plains topminnow, mooneye, elktoe), occur as expected. The eastern hellbender, a Missouri Watch List species, was not observed during this study, and areas on FLW do not appear to contain suitable habitat for it.
Bottomland forest is well represented on FLW and occurs extensively along the larger streams and their tributaries. As with other forested areas, due to previous land-use practices, these natural communities are not high quality. The structure is even-aged, with low tree species diversity that is relatively young. However, species of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals associated with bottomland forest, including common species (pickerel frogs, green frogs, yellow-crowned night-heron, parula warblers, green herons, great blue herons, white-tailed deer, beaver) and listed species (cerulean warblers, brown creepers, red-shouldered hawks, wintering bald eagles, gray bats, Indiana bats, eastern small-footed myotis, eastern wood rat, golden mouse, and Juglans cinerea), occur as expected.
Forests and glades. Forest structure and composition is typical of that occurring in the Upper Ozarks. Forests are relatively even-aged and young. While the forests occurring on FLW are not examples of high quality natural communities, they offer suitable habitat for many species. Species of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals associated with upland forest, include common species (southern redback salamander, eastern gray treefrog, dwarf American toad, ground skink, five-lined skink, western earth snake, western worm snake, southern coal skink, broad-winged hawk, downy woodpecker, red-eyed vireo, Kentucky warbler, big brown bat, little brown bat, striped skunk, white-footed mouse,) and listed species (ringed salaman der, Cooper's hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, Indiana bat, gray bat, eastern small-footed myotis, eastern wood rat), occur as expected.
Glade communities were grouped with upland forests, since glades on FLW are relatively small openings facing south to southwest on dolomite or sandstone, and surrounded by either forest or savanna. Most of the glades on FLW have not been burned either by wild fire or prescribed fire for many years. Thus, they have been encroached upon by woody vegetation and non-native species. Common species were found as expected (eastern narrowmouth toad, prairie racerunner, northern fence lizard, field sparrow, indigo bunting, American goldfinch, white-eyed vireo, eastern cottontail). Several listed species that prefer the drier conditions of glades (Sporabolus ozarkanus, Silene regia, eastern wood rat) were discovered on FLW. Two other listed species that prefer glade habitat are the eastern collared lizard and Bachman's sparrow, neither of which were found on FLW.
Savanna and open land. Communities within this category occur on FLW, but in relatively degraded conditions with regard to age structure, canopy closure, and herbaceous understory. Additionally, several small prairies historically occurred on FLW. Species associated with savanna and prairies, including common species (eastern narrowmouth toad, ground skink, five-lined skink, red-tailed hawk, northern bobwhite, eastern wood-pewee, field sparrow, brown-headed cowbird, eastern chipmunk, striped skunk) and listed species (narrowleaf rushfoil, buffalo clover, royal catchfly, eastern wood rat), were found on FLW. Two listed species, Bachman's sparrow and loggerhead shrike, often found in savanna and open habitats, were not located on FLW during this survey.
Other communities. Many caves occur on FLW and are in relatively good condition. Species associated with caves, including common species (eastern pipistrelle, cave salamander, pickerel frogs) and listed species (Indiana bat, gray bat, eastern small-footed myotis, grotto salamander) were found on FLW.
Numerous springs and spring branches occur throughout the installation. These springs are important in providing a source of water throughout the year. Most ofthe small headwater streams found on FLW are fed by springs. Aquatic life is not very diverse in these springs and was not sampled during this survey. One species listed as Rare in Missouri, the four-toed salamander, is often found in mossy beds along the flowing springs during March-April. However, surveys for this species were unsuccessful.
Many small wetlands occur throughout FLW. However, very few are representative of high quality wetlands. Even though most wetlands had been disturbed by previous land- use practices, these wetlands are important habitat components for many common species (bull frog, Fowler's toad, marbled salamander, northern water snake, red-eared slider, great blue heron, green heron, common yellowthroat, Louisiana waterthrush, mink, beaver, raccoon) and for several listed species (pied-billed grebe, marsh wren, ringed salamander).
Biological Diversity Management Recommendations
Protection, enhancement, and restoration of landscapes on FLW will meet the needs of most elements of biodiversity. As few exemplary natural communities are located on the installation, the land management staff of FLW will best be able to choose areas that will be worthwhile to manage (i.e., protect, enhance, and/or restore). Selection of areas will be based not only on their current condition, but also on the level of training that will occur on the site. Necessarily, those areas possessing a higher level of natural integrity, and used either sparingly or not at all for training, will be the best suited for management and will likely offer the highest probability of success.
Floodplain and rivers.
1. Maintain and enhance existing bottomland forests.
Status: Bottomland forest is extensive on FLW; however, these forests are relatively even-aged and do not exhibit the mosaic of structure associated with bottomland forests. Bottomland forest provides nesting and wintering roosting sites for bald eagles. As nesting bald eagles are increasing in Missouri, and have nested just north of FLW on the Gasconade River, it is likely that bald eagles may eventually nest on FLW. The riparian corridor associated with bottomland forest also provides foraging areas for gray bats and Indiana bats. Bottomland forests help improve stream quality by minimizing streambank erosion and providing shade to aquatic communities.
Strategies:
- Use uneven-aged timber harvest to remove or decrease the frequency of undesirable species (i.e., species not associated with bottomland forest natural communities).
- Reduce or eliminate training maneuvers in bottomland forests. This will reduce soil erosion.
- Continue practice of streambank soil erosion control in areas requiring such management.
2. Maintain vegetative connectivity between river and upland forests.
Status: Primarily intact on FLW. Connectivity between river and upland forests provides travel corridors to and from the river. These travel corridors benefit many species. For example, they provide cover for foraging Endangered bats and travel corridors for animal and plant dispersal that is necessary in preserving heterogeneity.
Strategy:
- Establish, improve, and maintain forested strips, at least 200 ft wide, between river and upland forests.
Forests and glades.
1. Reduce forest fragmentation and improve forest quality.
Status: Existing forests are fragmented due to previous land use practices. A reduction in forest fragmentation will increase the habitat of forest interior neotropical birds that are area sensitive (broad-winged hawk, yellow-throated warbler, ovenbird, hooded warbler [Herkert et al. 1993]). Forest fragmentation leads to poor nesting conditions for species of birds requiring large tracts of forest for successful nesting. These species are more sensitive to the higher levels of predation and nest parasitism from cowbirds when forest blocks are small.
Strategies:
- Increase uneven-aged forest management techniques in the Upland Forested Hills and suitable portions of the Forested River Hills Physio graphic Land Management Zone. Use single tree/small group selection cutting rather than large clearcuts. This will reduce forest fragmentation and more closely represent natural forces that shape a forest (i.e., disease, fire, wind). Leave snags, fallen logs, and old trees throughout the forest.
- Designate a minimum of 10 percent of the forest as old growth. Choose sites that contain mature second growth and some trees greater than 60 years old, and do not harvest. Select areas within all forest natural community types (i.e., dry chert forest, dry mesic chert forest, etc.).
- Reduce plowing and mowing of fire lines as much as feasible. Fire lines promote the invasion of exotic or other undesirable plants, increase erosion, and fragment the landscape. If possible, establish natural fire lines using landscape features that serve as fire breaks (i.e., bluffs, streams, roads).
- Reduce the number of roads existing on FLW. Allow some of the older, rarely used timber harvest roads to grow over. This practice will reduce forest fragmentation, create a contiguous forest, and benefit forest interior species.
- Establish and maintain forest landscapes that contain a mosaic of represen-tative natural communities and designate areas as off-limits to land disturbance practices. Designate buffer zones that capture transitional areas and help minimize disturbance to core natural communities. This practice protects forest interior birds.
2. Restore and maintain glades in a natural state.
Status: Glades are prevalent throughout FLW, but are generally overgrown with woody vegetation. Open glades will benefit plants (e.g., Silene regia, Sporabolus ozarkanus, and species of Echinacea and Liatris) and animals (e.g., prairie racerunner, narrowmouth toad) associated with glades in the Upper Ozarks. Current management of Laughlin glade (prescribed fire and removal of woody vegetation) is an example of good glade management.
Strategies:
- Continue to use prescribed fires that mimic the natural fire regime in frequency, duration, temperature, and seasonality. Vary the fire regime depending upon the current condition and type of the natural community. Certain areas that are overgrown may initially need to be burned more frequently. Continue to incorporate fires started during shooting and ordnance exercises into the prescribed burn regime. This practice injects an amount of unpredictability to the fires, which more closely mimics natural fire occurrence.
- Remove encroaching vegetation, both exotic and weedy vegetation, mechani-cally or through prescribed fires on existing glades (e.g., remove cedars from glade openings and initiate a prescribed burn plan that periodically removes exotic and other vegetation uncharacteristic of the glade).
Savanna and open lands. Restore and maintain open conditions associated with savanna and prairie on FLW.
Status: Savanna exists throughout FLW; historic prairie is gone. Dry and dry-mesic chert savanna are the dominant natural communities associated with the savanna landscape of FLW. However, most of the existing savanna communities are not very old and are degraded due to previous land use. Ongoing savanna and prairie management on FLW is occurring in an attempt to improve the current condition of these communities. Improving savanna and prairie will increase the amount of habitat for species preferring more open, herbaceous conditions (e.g., loggerhead shrike, field sparrow, Bewick's wren, deer mouse, prairie vole, northern scarlet snake, five-lined skink).
Strategies:
- Continue to use prescribed burns that mimic the natural fire regime in frequency, duration, temperature, and seasonality. Vary the fire regime depending upon the current condition and type of the natural community. Certain areas that are overgrown initially may need to be burned more frequently. Continue to incorporate fires started during shooting and ordnance exercises into the prescribed burn regime. This practice injects an amount of unpredictability to the fires, which more closely mimics natural fire occurrence.
- Increase use of uneven-aged forest management techniques in the Upland Rolling Hills and Savanna Physiographic Land Management Zone. Use single tree/small group selection cutting rather than large clearcuts. This reduces fragmentation, and more closely represents natural forces that shape a forest or savanna (i.e., disease, fire, wind). Leave snags, fallen logs, and old trees throughout the area.
Other communities.
1. Protect karst landscape features: caves, sinkholes, springs, and seeps.
Status: Certain of the karst features have been heavily disturbed by previous land use. Protection of these features will maintain the biological diversity associated with these communities (e.g., cave salamanders, grotto salamanders, ringed salamanders, pickerel frogs).
Strategies:
- Maintain vegetation surrounding these features in a natural condition. This practice will minimize erosion and other types of community degrada tion.
- Monitor cave use to determine level of disturbance. Sign or gate caves to minimize disturbance.
2. Maintain integrity of existing wetlands.
Status: Numerous wetlands occur on FLW; however, many have been disturbed by previous and ongoing land-use practices. Wetlands provide breeding areas for amphibians and reptiles (e.g., spotted salamander, spring peeper, red-eared slider) and birds (Louisiana waterthrush, common yellowthroat).
Strategies:
- Establish buffer zones of natural vegetation around wetlands and waterways to protect water quality and reduce soil erosion.
- Minimize training activities within erosional zones of wetlands.
Management Recommendations for Species
Gray Bat
Current management practices: Adequate. FLW is presently implementing MDC management guidelines.
Note: The gray bat maternity site is heavily visited by pot-hunters. This activity may disturb female bats and their young, causing young bats to fall off of their mothers.
Recommendations: Frequent inspection of the cave entrance to determine prevalence of pot-hunters and whether this activity is disturbing bats using the cave. Construction of a cave gate or fence should be considered to restrict access to the cave if disturbance levels are high.
Indiana Bat
Current management practices: Adequate. FLW is presently implementing MDC management guidelines.
Note: Previously, Indiana bats were not known to use FLW during the summer breeding months. Mist-net surveys in 1994 captured three Indiana bats (one pregnant, one lactating, and one male) on FLW; thus indicating a small reproducing population on FLW.
Recommendations: Further studies should be completed to determine status, location of maternity roosts, and foraging areas of reproductive Indiana bats on the installation. If a maternity roost is discovered, guidelines, much like those restricting activity around endangered bat cave entrances already in use on FLW, should be developed and enacted.
Timber harvest in areas where maternity roosts are found should be reduced. If the area must be harvested, uneven-age management should be used. Snags and trees with exfoliating bark that are greater than 9-in. DBH, and especially those trees greater than 21-in. DBH, should not be harvested, particularly during the Indiana bat reproductive period (1 April to 15 September). If the crown canopy is dense, selective cutting of trees may actually improve conditions of certain roost trees by increasing the amount of solar radiation, and thereby increasing the temperature under the exfoliating bark.
Bald Eagle
Current management practices: None. Census of wintering bald eagles conducted in cooperation with MDC.
Note: Bald eagles have not attempted to nest within the boundaries of FLW. Bald eagles have successfully nested on nearby Gasconade River and attempted to nest south of FLW on Big Piney River. It is likely that, as the number of bald eagles increases, nesting attempts will be made within FLW. Wintering bald eagles occur along Big Piney River and Roubidoux Creek.
Recommendations: Should a nesting attempt occur on FLW, special management restrictions should be enacted around the nest. Restrictions recommended by MDC are different for every nest but consist primarily of a "No Entrance Zone" of approximately 250 yd during the nesting period, which also carries with it a stipulation that there be no land disturbance within the 250-yd zone year long. This restriction is removed once a nest has not been used for 3 successive years. Additionally, nests that are located near airports have a "No-fly Zone" during the nesting period. The size of this zone varies, but it is used primarily to restrict low-flying aircraft from getting too near a nesting pair of bald eagles. If a nesting attempt is noted on FLW, contact an MDC ornithologist.
Management Recommendations for Falls Hollow Sandstone Glades
Current management practices: Inadequate.
Note: Current management includes infrequent prescribed burns and mechanical removal of eastern red cedar.
Recommendations: Management strategies designed to decrease the amount of erosion coming from Range 22 (which might include removal of one or two of the eastern-most firing lines and planting native vegetation along the road bordering the west side of the glade), remove exotic and weedy vegetation, and enhance the surrounding sandstone forest, would greatly improve the quality of Falls Hollow sandstone glades. Implement a burn regime that mimics the natural fire regime. Post signs prohibiting parking or crossing the glade with motorized vehicles.
General Management Guidelines
1. Consider designating certain areas of FLW as low impact, where military activities and human disturbances are kept to a minimum. These areas should represent a mosaic of natural community types occurring on FLW, and incorporate populations of rare and endangered plants, animals, and high quality communities (or at least the potential of restoring to high quality). Timber harvest and other land management techniques should be used as needed to maintain and enhance the natural communities present. Setting aside areas as a "reserve" would provide protection to elements of biodiversity present on these areas. If a number of such areas are established that represent all, or much, of the biodiversity occurring on FLW, then the biodiversity of FLW has been protected. Other areas could then be used for training purposes without the loss of important biodiversity elements. This practice could also be thought of as setting aside a percentage of all natural communities present.
2. Revegetate cleared areas using native vegetation appropriate for the FLW region. If an area must be immediately planted to stop or minimize soil erosion, use a mixture of annual rye grass (which will not permanently establish) and native vegetation.
3. Reduce the incidence of soil erosion along waterways, wetlands, roads, and other areas by minimizing soil disturbance and revegetating with native plants. If necessary, use hay bales in areas experiencing high soil erosion into waterways, until erosion can be reduced and stopped. For example, place hay bales in the drainage running onto Falls Hollow sandstone glade from Range 22. This practice will slow movement of soil, litter, and other debris onto the glade.
4. Improve low water crossings that often cause soil erosion. Whenever possible, refrain from using gravel as a crossing medium. Placing large amounts of gravel in streams changes stream hydrology by stopping water and causing newchannels to form. Eventually, gravel is washed downstream and must be replaced at the crossing. Specifically, place a permanent low-water box culvert crossing over Roubidoux Creek at the Crossroads. The gravel and sand portion of the current crossing is washed away every few years and impedes water flow.
5. Continue using the LCTA program to look at the effects of training to the landscape. Establish monitoring programs to determine the efficacy of manage ment practices on the ecosystems and the natural communities within, including the effects on plant and animal populations. Modify management techniques as needed.
Table 1. Federally and state-listed species for which surveys were conducted on Fort Leonard Wood, Pulaski Co., MO, 1993-1995.
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
STATUS FEDERAL2 |
STATUS STATE2 |
Vascular Plants |
|||
Agalinis purpurea |
Purple false foxglove |
|
WL |
Agalinis skinneriana |
A false foxglove |
C2 |
WL |
Agrimonia gryposepala |
Tall agrimony |
SU | |
Alopecurus aequalis |
Floating foxtail |
R | |
Armoracia lacustris |
Lake cress |
3C |
SU |
Aster furcatus |
Forked aster |
C2 |
WL |
Aster macrophyllus |
Big-leaved aster |
E | |
Berberis canadensis |
American barberry |
R | |
Bromus latiglumis |
Brome grass |
SU | |
Calamagrostis porteri spp. insperata |
Reed bent grass |
C2 |
R |
Carex alata |
Broadwing sedge |
|
WL |
Carex buxbaumii |
Brown bog sedge |
R | |
Carex comosa |
Bristly sedge |
R | |
Carex conoidea |
Field sedge |
E | |
Carex fissa var. fissa |
A sedge |
C2 |
SU |
Carex laevivaginata |
Smooth-sheath sedge |
R | |
Carex straminea |
Straw sedge |
SU | |
Carex stricta |
Tussock sedge |
R | |
Carex triangularis |
Triangular sedge |
E | |
Carex trichocarpa |
Hairy-fruited sedge |
R | |
Carex virescens |
Ribbed sedge |
WL | |
Clematis viorna |
A leather flower |
E | |
Crotonopsis linearis |
Narrowleaf rushfoil |
SU | |
Cypripedium reginae |
Showy lady's slipper |
WL | |
Desmodium viridiflorum |
Velvety tick trefoil |
E | |
Dichanthelium leibergii |
Panic grass |
SU | |
Dryopteris carthusiana |
Spinulose shield fern |
E | |
Dryopteris goldiana |
Goldie's fern |
R | |
Elatine triandra |
Waterwort |
E | |
Glyceria acutiflora |
Sharp-scaled manna grass |
R | |
Heuchera parviflora var. parviflora |
Little leaved alum root |
E | |
Juglans cinerea |
Butternut |
C2 |
WL |
Malaxis unifolia |
Green adder's mouth |
SU | |
Matelea baldwyniana |
Baldwin's milkvine |
C2 |
SU |
Najas gracillima |
Thread-like naiad |
E | |
Nemastylis nuttallii |
Celestial lily |
SU | |
Plantago cordata |
Heart-leaved plantain |
3C |
W |
Potamogeton pusillus var. pusillus |
Slender pondweed |
E | |
Scirpus torreyi |
Torrey's bulrush |
E | |
Scleria ciliata var. ciliata |
Hairy nut-rush |
SU | |
Sedum ternatum |
Wood stonecrop |
WL | |
Silene regia |
Royal catchfly |
3C |
WL |
Sisyrinchium atlanticum |
Eastern blue-eyed grass |
R | |
Smallanthus uvedalius |
Yellow-flowered leafcup |
WL | |
Spiranthes lacera var. gracilis |
Slender ladies' tresses |
WL | |
Spiranthes lucida |
Shining ladies'tresses |
R | |
Spiranthes ovalis var. erostellata |
Oval ladies' tresses |
R | |
Sporobolus ozarkanus |
Bald grass |
3C |
SU |
Torreyochloa pallida |
Pale manna grass |
E | |
Trifolium reflexum var. reflexum |
Buffalo clover |
SU | |
Trifolium stolonifera |
Running buffalo clover |
E |
E |
Triosteum angustifolium var. earnesii |
Yellow-flowered horse gentian |
| |
Waldsteinia fragarioides ssp. fragarioides |
Barren strawberry |
R | |
Zigadenus elegans |
White camus |
R | |
Mollusks |
|||
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
C2 |
SU |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 |
WL |
Fish |
|||
Fundulus sciadicus |
Plains topminnow |
C2 |
SU |
Hiodon tergisus |
Mooneye |
R | |
Notropis heterolepis |
Blacknose shiner |
R | |
Percina cymatotaenia |
Bluestripe darter |
C2 |
R |
Amphibians |
|||
Ambystoma annulatum |
Ringed salamander |
WL | |
Cryptobranchus a. alleganiensis alleganiensiss |
Eastern hellbender |
C2 |
WL |
Hemidactylium scutatum |
Four-toed salamander |
R | |
Typhlotriton spelaeus |
Grotto salamander |
WL | |
Reptiles |
|||
Cemophora coccinea copei |
Northern scarlet snake |
R | |
Crotaphytus collaris collaris |
Eastern collared lizard |
WL | |
Birds |
|||
Accipiter cooperii |
Cooper's hawk |
R | |
Accipiter striatus |
Sharp-shinned hawk |
R | |
Aimophila aestivalis |
Bachman's sparrow |
C2 |
E |
Ammodramus henslowii |
Henslow's sparrow |
C2 |
R |
Ardea herodias |
Great blue heron rookery |
Common | |
Buteo lineatus |
Red-shouldered hawk |
WL | |
Certhia americana |
Brown creeper |
SU | |
Dendroica cerulea |
Cerulean warbler |
C2 |
WL |
Dendroica pensylvanica |
Chestnut-sided warbler |
SU | |
Haliaeetus leucocephalus |
Bald eagle |
T |
E |
Lanius ludovicianus |
Loggerhead shrike |
C2 |
WL |
Limnothlypis swainsonii |
Swainson's warbler |
E | |
Nycticorax nycticorax |
Black-crowned night heron |
R | |
Thryomanes bewickii |
Bewick's wren |
WL | |
Tyto alba |
Barn owl |
R | |
Vireo bellii |
Bell's vireo |
WL | |
1Nomenclature follows that of Yatskievych and Turner (1990) for plants, Turgeon et al. (1988) with modifications as suggested by Williams et al. (1992) for mollusks, Robins et al. (1991) for fish, Conant and Collins (1991) for amphibians and reptiles, and American Ornithologists' Union (1983) with occasional updates for birds. 2Rare and Endangered Species Checklist of Missouri (1995): Federal Categories
Missouri Categories
| |||
Table 2. Freshwater mussel species from Big Piney River (B) and Roubidoux Creek (R), MO.
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME |
Oesch (1984) |
Warren (1993) |
Buchanan (Unpubl.) |
This Study |
Margaritiferidae |
|||||
Cumberlandia monodonta*,** (Federal-Formerly C2;
|
Spectaclecase |
B |
Alive-B2
| ||
Unionidae |
|||||
Actinonaias ligamentina** |
Mucket |
B |
B |
B |
Alive-B
|
Alasmidonta marginata (Federal-Formerly C2; MO-Status Undetermined) |
Elktoe |
B,R |
B |
Alive-B,R | |
Alasmidonta viridis |
Slippershell mussel |
B,R |
|||
Amblema plicata* |
Threeridge |
R |
B |
Alive-B
| |
Cyclonaias tuberculata*,** |
Purple wartyback |
B |
Alive-B
| ||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
B |
B,R |
B |
Alive-B,R |
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
B,R |
B,R |
B |
Alive-B,R |
Fusconaia ozarkensis*,**,3 |
Ozark pigtoe |
Alive3-B,R | |||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
B |
B,R |
B |
Alive-B,R |
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket or eastern lampmussel |
B,R |
Alive-B,R | ||
Lampsilis reeviana brittsi |
Northern broken-ray |
B |
B,R |
B |
Alive-B,R |
Lampsilis reeviana brevicula |
Ozark broken-ray |
B |
Alive-B | ||
Lampsilis teres* |
Yellow sandshell |
Dead-B | |||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
B |
B |
Alive-B | |
Leptodea fragilis* |
Fragile papershell |
B |
Dead-B | ||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
B |
Alive-B | ||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
B |
B |
Alive-B | |
Obliquaria reflexa* |
Threehorn wartyback |
Dead-B | |||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
R |
B |
B |
Alive-B,R |
Potamilus alatus** |
Pink heelsplitter |
B |
Alive-B
| ||
Ptychobranchus occidentalis*
|
Ouachita kidneyshell |
Dead-B | |||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
B |
R |
B |
Alive-B |
Quadrula metanevra** |
Monkeyface |
B |
Alive-B,R | ||
Quadrula pustulosa* |
Pimpleback |
Alive-B | |||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
B |
B,R |
B |
Dead-B |
Tritogonia verrucosa*,** |
Pistolgrip |
Alive-B
| |||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis* |
Paper pondshell |
Alive-B | |||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
B |
B,R |
B |
Alive-B,R |
Corbicula fluminea*,** (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
Alive-B,R | |||
Total Number of Species |
B: 28 + clam
|
B: 14
|
B: 13
|
B: 14 |
B: 27+clam
|
Note: Sampling for this study occurred between October 1993 and October 1995.
| |||||
Table 3. Species of freshwater mussels observed at each study site on the Big Piney River, Pulaski and Phelps counties, MO, between October 1993 and October 1995.
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||
BPM
|
BPM
|
BPM
|
BPM
|
BPM
|
BPM
|
BPM
| ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
X |
303 |
23 |
214 |
125 |
3 | |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
1 |
||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
5 |
1 |
5 |
4 |
|||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
X |
X |
X |
||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
X |
10 |
8 |
18 |
16 |
||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
4 |
2 |
4 |
8 |
||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
|
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
3?2 |
||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
X |
3 |
|
2 |
5 |
||
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
10 |
2 |
5 |
9 |
15 |
4 |
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
X |
||||||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
|||||||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
X |
1 |
1 |
6 |
|||
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
|||||||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
X |
||||||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
|||||||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
|||||||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
X |
10 |
2 |
11 |
16 |
||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
|||||||
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
X |
||||||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
1 |
||||||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
X |
9 |
2 |
2 |
34 |
6 |
|
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
X |
1 |
3 |
6 |
|||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
X |
||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
3 |
2 |
X |
4 |
|||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
|||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
X |
12 |
1 |
12 |
17 |
16 |
2 |
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
A |
A |
A |
A |
A |
A |
A |
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
15 |
17 |
7 |
12 |
15 |
12 |
5 |
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||
BPM
|
BPM
|
BPM 10 |
BPM 11 |
BPM 12 |
BPM 13 |
BPM 14 | ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
X |
2 |
14 |
1 | |||
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
|||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
X |
||||||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
|||||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
X |
||||||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
5 |
X | ||||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
|
1 |
X | ||||
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
|||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
|
X |
X |
X | |||
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
10 |
|||||
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
1 |
X | |||||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
|||||||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
X |
||||||
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
|||||||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
|||||||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
|||||||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
|||||||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
|||||||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
X |
||||||
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
|||||||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
|||||||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
X | ||||||
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
X |
||||||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
|||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
1 |
||||||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
|||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
1 |
||||||
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
X |
A |
A | ||||
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
14 |
7 |
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||
BPM 15 |
BPM 16 |
BPM 17 |
BPM 18 |
BPM 19 |
BPM 20 |
BPM 21 | ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
2 |
3 |
X |
X |
1 |
1 | |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
|||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
X |
X |
X |
||||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
X |
||||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
X |
||||||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
|
X |
X |
||||
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
|||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
X |
X |
|
X |
X |
X | |
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
X |
X |
3 |
X | ||
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
X |
||||||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
|||||||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
X |
||||||
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
|||||||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
|||||||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
|||||||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
|||||||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
X |
X |
X |
X | |||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
1 |
||||||
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
|||||||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
|||||||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
X |
X |
X |
1 | |||
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
X |
X |
X |
||||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
|||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
X |
||||||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
|||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
1 |
1 |
|||||
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
X |
A |
X |
X |
A |
X |
A |
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
6 |
13 |
4 |
9 |
9 |
4 |
6 |
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||
BPM 22 |
BPM 23 |
BPM 24 |
BPM 25 |
BPM 26 |
BPM 27 |
BPM 28A | ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
X |
13 |
X |
X |
|||
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
|||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
X |
14 | |||||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
|||||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
|||||||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
1 |
X |
||||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
X |
3 |
X |
X |
2 | ||
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
|||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
1 |
X |
X |
X |
|||
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
14 |
1 |
X |
|||
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
1 |
1 |
41 | ||||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
|||||||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
X |
||||||
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
|||||||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
|||||||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
X |
41 | |||||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
|||||||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
X |
1 |
X |
||||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
20 | ||||||
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
|||||||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
25 | ||||||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
|||||||
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
1 |
||||||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
|||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
|||||||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
2 | ||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
1 |
4 |
X |
||||
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
A |
A |
X |
A |
X | ||
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
9 |
9 |
11 |
2 |
0 |
4 |
8 |
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||
BPM 28B |
BPM 28C |
BPM 28D |
BPM 29 |
BPM 30 |
BPM 31 |
BPM 32 | ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
X |
1 |
X |
X | |||
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
|||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
4 |
1 |
X |
||||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
X |
||||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
|||||||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
X |
|||||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
|
X |
X |
X |
|||
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
X?2 |
||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
|
1 |
2 |
X |
X | ||
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
X |
X | ||||
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
9 |
3 |
5 |
X |
X |
||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
X |
||||||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
|||||||
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
|||||||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
|||||||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
7 |
6 |
2 |
2 |
X |
||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
|||||||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
|||||||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
3 |
3 |
4 |
X |
X |
X | |
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
|||||||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
11 |
11 |
X |
1 |
|||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
X |
||||||
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
|||||||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
|||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
X |
||||||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
1 |
||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
|||||||
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
X |
X |
X |
A | |||
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
7 |
6 |
4 |
8 |
8 |
10 |
5 |
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||
BPM
|
BPM 34 |
BPM 35 |
BPM 36 |
BPM 37 |
BPM 38 |
BPM 39 | ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
49 |
1 |
18 |
100 |
58 |
||
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
X |
||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
9 |
1 |
28 |
2 |
8 |
||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
X |
X |
|||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
1 |
3 |
X |
||||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
X |
1 |
3 |
1 |
||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
X |
X |
1 |
12 |
8 |
||
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
X?2 |
||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
3 |
X |
X |
3 |
1 |
||
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
X |
2 |
1 |
|||
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
1 |
X |
1 |
3 |
X |
||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
|||||||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
1 |
||||||
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
X |
||||||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
X |
X |
|||||
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
X |
||||||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
X |
||||||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
5 |
2 |
18 |
X |
5 | ||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
X |
2 |
X |
1 |
|||
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
|||||||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
2 |
||||||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
20 |
X |
11 |
3 |
|||
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
1 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
|||
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
X |
||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
X |
X |
2 |
||||
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
|||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
1 |
X |
1 |
X |
|||
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
A |
A |
A |
A |
A |
||
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
13 |
11 |
13 |
18 |
21 |
0 |
1 |
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||
BPM 40 |
BPM
|
BPM 42 | ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
X |
25 |
23 |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
|||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
X |
15 |
5 |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
X |
X | |
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
X |
3 |
X |
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
X |
2 |
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
X |
2 |
2 |
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
|||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
X |
4 |
2 |
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
X |
3 | |
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
3 |
||
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
|||
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
1 |
2 | |
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
|||
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
X |
1 |
1 |
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
|||
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
|||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
X |
1 |
2 |
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
X |
X |
2 |
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
|||
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
X |
1 |
|
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
X |
X |
X |
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
X |
2 |
2 |
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
|||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
X |
2 |
4 |
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
|||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
X |
1 |
3 |
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
X |
A |
A |
Total Number of Species |
26 + clam |
15 |
19 |
17 |
Note: Sites 7 to 34 are located either within FLW or directly adjacent to FLW. (Numbers indicate live specimens found at the site, an "X" represents one or more dead specimens, and an "A" indicates live specimens were found and not counted.
1Nomenclature follows that of Turgeon et al. (1988) with modifications as suggested by Williams et al. (1992). Nomenclature used by Oesch (1984) is included in parentheses for cross-referencing.
2Tentative identification. Tissue needed for positive identification; unfortunately, tissue was not preserved. Species not included in Total Number of Species.
Table 4. Summary of freshwater mussels found in the Big Piney River, Pulaski and Phelps counties, MO, between October 1993 and October 1995.
Live Specimens |
Site Frequency | ||||||||||
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON
|
No. Found on FLW2 |
% of FLW Total |
Total Number Found |
% of
|
No. of Sites Where Found |
No. of Sites Where Found Live |
% of All Sites Found w/Live Spec. |
No. Sites Where Found on FLW |
No. of Sites Where Found Live FLW |
% of Sites Where Found Live on FLW |
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
91 |
21.31 |
980 |
53.41 |
31 |
21 |
50.00 |
20 |
12 |
42.86 |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0.05 |
2 |
1 |
2.38 |
0 |
0 |
0.00 |
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
29 |
6.79 |
102 |
5.56 |
19 |
12 |
28.57 |
9 |
3 |
10.71 |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
9 |
0 |
0.00 |
2 |
0 |
0.00 |
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
1 |
0.23 |
59 |
3.22 |
13 |
7 |
16.67 |
3 |
1 |
3.57 |
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
27 |
6.32 |
52 |
2.83 |
25 |
10 |
23.81 |
14 |
2 |
7.14 |
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
7 |
1.64 |
38 |
2.07 |
26 |
14 |
33.33 |
15 |
4 |
14.29 |
Fusconaia ozarkensis3 |
Ozark pigtoe |
0 |
-- |
3 |
-- |
3 |
1 |
-- |
1 |
0 |
-- |
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
7 |
1.64 |
27 |
1.47 |
28 |
11 |
26.19 |
18 |
4 |
14.29 |
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
22 |
5.15 |
69 |
3.76 |
17 |
13 |
30.95 |
17 |
5 |
17.86 |
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
62 |
14.52 |
69 |
3.76 |
15 |
8 |
19.05 |
10 |
5 |
17.86 |
Lampsilis teres |
Yellow sandshell |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
Lasmigona costata |
Fluted-shell |
0 |
0.00 |
12 |
0.65 |
10 |
6 |
14.29 |
3 |
0 |
0.00 |
Leptodea fragilis |
Fragile papershell |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0 |
0.00 |
Ligumia recta |
Black sandshell |
0 |
0.00 |
2 |
0.11 |
6 |
2 |
4.76 |
0 |
0 |
0.00 |
Ligumia subrostrata |
Pondmussel |
58 |
13.58 |
58 |
3.16 |
5 |
2 |
4.76 |
5 |
2 |
7.14 |
Obliquaria reflexa |
Threehorn wartyback |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0 |
0.00 |
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
6 |
1.41 |
73 |
3.98 |
20 |
11 |
26.19 |
8 |
2 |
7.14 |
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
31 |
7.26 |
36 |
1.96 |
13 |
5 |
11.90 |
7 |
2 |
7.14 |
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0 |
0.00 |
Pyganodon (=Anodonta) grandis |
Giant floater |
48 |
11.24 |
52 |
2.83 |
7 |
5 |
11.90 |
3 |
2 |
7.14 |
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
21 |
4.92 |
88 |
4.80 |
19 |
9 |
21.43 |
8 |
2 |
7.14 |
Quadrula pustulosa |
Pimpleback |
2 |
0.47 |
22 |
1.20 |
16 |
10 |
23.81 |
6 |
2 |
7.14 |
Strophitus undulatus |
Squawfoot |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
2 |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0 |
0.00 |
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
1 |
0.23 |
18 |
0.98 |
13 |
7 |
16.67 |
3 |
1 |
3.57 |
Utterbackia (=Anodonta) imbecillis |
Paper pondshell |
3 |
0.70 |
3 |
0.16 |
1 |
1 |
2.38 |
1 |
1 |
3.57 |
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
11 |
2.58 |
74 |
4.03 |
20 |
15 |
35.71 |
9 |
7 |
25.00 |
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
A |
A |
A |
A |
34 |
23 |
54.76 |
32 |
22 |
78.57 |
Total Number of Species |
26+ clam |
18 |
-- |
21 |
-- |
27 |
21 |
-- |
21 |
17 |
-- |
Total Number of Specimens |
427 |
-- |
1835 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- | |
Total Number of Sites |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
42 |
42 |
-- |
28 |
28 |
-- | |
1Nomenclature follows that of Turgeon et al. (1988) with modifications as suggested by Williams et al. (1992). Nomenclature used by Oesch (1984) is
included in parentheses for cross-referencing.
2FLW = Fort Leonard Wood
3Tentative identification. Species not included in calculations and Total Number of Species.
Table 5. Species of freshwater mussels observed at each study site on Roubidoux Creek, Pulaski Co., MO, between October 1993 and October 1995.
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
SITE | ||||||||||||
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
|
RM
| ||
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
X |
X |
X | ||||||||||
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
1 |
||||||||||||
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||||||
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
|||||||||||||
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
|||||||||||||
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
X |
X |
2 |
1 |
10 |
3 |
55 |
X |
X | ||||
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
|
X |
1 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
4 |
X |
X | ||||
Fusconaia ozarkensis2 |
Ozark pigtoe |
2?2 |
||||||||||||
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
X |
X |
1 |
X |
4 |
2 |
X |
X |
X |
X | |||
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
1 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
4 |
14 |
X |
X | |||||
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
1 |
X |
1 |
2 |
5 |
3 |
X |
4 |
X |
X |
X | ||
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
X |
1 |
5 |
X | |||||||||
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
|||||||||||||
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
1 |
1 |
1 |
||||||||||
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
X |
||||||||||||
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
11 |
5 |
X |
X |
X | ||||||||
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
X |
X |
A |
X |
X |
X | |||||||
Total Number of Species |
15 + clam |
3 |
5 |
5 |
1 |
4 |
5 |
8 |
8 |
5 |
11 |
8 |
6 |
10 |
Note: Sites 3-13 are located within the boundaries of FLW. (Numbers represent live specimens found at the site, an "X" represents one or more dead specimens, and an "A" indicates live specimens were found and not counted.)
1Nomenclature follows that of Turgeon et al. (1988) with modifications as suggested by Williams et al. (1992). Nomenclature cused by Oesch (1984) is included in parentheses for cross-referencing.
2Tentative identification. Tissue needed for positive identification; unfortunately, tissue was not preserved. Species not included in Total Number of Species.
Table 6. Summary of feshwater mussels found in Roubidoux Creek, Pulaski and Texas counties, MO, between October 1993 and October 1995.
Live Specimens |
Site Frequency | ||||||||||
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME1 |
COMMON NAME1 |
No. Found on FLW2 |
% of FLW Total |
Total Number Found |
% of All Live |
No. of Sites Where Found |
No. of Sites Where Found Live |
% of All Sites Found w/Live
|
# Sites Where Found on FLW |
No. of Sites Where Found Liveon FLW |
% of Sites Where Found Live on FLW |
Actinonaias ligamentina |
Mucket |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
3 |
0 |
0.00 |
3 |
0 |
0.00 |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
1 |
0.65 |
1 |
0.64 |
1 |
1 |
7.69 |
1 |
1 |
9.09 |
Amblema plicata |
Threeridge |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
6 |
0 |
0.00 |
6 |
0 |
0.00 |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
Cyclonaias tuberculata |
Purple wartyback |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
Elliptio dilatata |
Spike |
71 |
45.81 |
71 |
45.22 |
9 |
5 |
38.46 |
8 |
5 |
45.45 |
Fusconaia flava |
Wabash pigtoe |
11 |
7.10 |
11 |
7.01 |
8 |
5 |
38.46 |
7 |
5 |
45.45 |
Fusconaia ozarkensis3 |
Ozark pigtoe |
2 |
-- |
2 |
-- |
1 |
1 |
-- |
1 |
1 |
-- |
Lampsilis cardium |
Plain pocketbook |
7 |
4.52 |
7 |
4.46 |
10 |
3 |
23.08 |
9 |
3 |
27.27 |
Lampsilis reeviana |
Northern broken-ray |
24 |
15.48 |
25 |
15.92 |
8 |
6 |
46.15 |
7 |
5 |
45.45 |
Lampsilis siliquoidea (=radiata) |
Fatmucket |
15 |
9.68 |
16 |
10.19 |
11 |
6 |
46.15 |
9 |
5 |
45.45 |
Pleurobema coccineum |
Round pigtoe |
6 |
3.87 |
6 |
3.82 |
4 |
2 |
15.38 |
4 |
2 |
18.18 |
Potamilus alatus |
Pink heelsplitter |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
Quadrula metanevra |
Monkeyface |
3 |
1.94 |
3 |
1.91 |
3 |
3 |
23.08 |
3 |
3 |
27.27 |
Tritogonia verrucosa |
Pistolgrip |
0 |
0.00 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
1 |
0 |
0.00 |
Venustaconcha ellipsiformis |
Ellipse |
17 |
10.97 |
17 |
10.83 |
6 |
3 |
23.08 |
6 |
3 |
27.27 |
Corbicula fluminea (introduced) |
Asiatic clam |
A |
-- |
A |
-- |
6 |
1 |
-- |
4 |
1 |
-- |
Total Number of Species |
15 + clam |
10 |
-- |
10 |
-- |
16 |
10 |
-- |
16 |
10 |
-- |
Total Number of Specimens |
155 |
-- |
157 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- | |
Total Number of Sites |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
13 |
13 |
-- |
11 |
11 |
-- | |
1Nomenclature follows that of Turgeon et al. (1988) with modifications as suggested by Williams et al. (1992). Nomenclature used by Oesch (1984) is included in parentheses for cross-referencing.
2FLW = Fort Leonard Wood.
3Tentative identification. Species not included in calculations and Total Number of Species.
Table 7. Federally and state-listed freshwater mussels found during surveys of FLW, Big Piney River, and Roubidoux Creek in Pulaski, Phelps,
and Texas counties, between October 1993 and October 1995.
|
SCIENTIFIC NAME |
COMMON NAME |
STATUS
|
T |
R |
S |
DATE OBS. |
COMMENTS |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
C2 SU |
34N |
12W |
36 |
08/09/94 |
Roubidoux Creek; RM 04; one live specimen |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
C2 SU |
34N |
10W |
5 |
07/21/94 |
Big Piney River; BPM 02; one live specimen |
Alasmidonta marginata |
Elktoe |
C2 SU |
35N |
10W |
10 |
12/05/93 |
Big Piney River; BPM 37; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
34N |
10W |
8 |
12/01/93 |
Big Piney River; BPM 01; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
34N |
10W |
5 |
12/01/93 |
Big Piney River; BPM 02; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
35N |
10W |
19 |
11/04/93 |
Big Piney River; BPM 20; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
35N |
10W |
17 |
11/23/93 |
Big Piney River; BPM 31; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
35N |
10W |
10 |
12/05/93 |
Big Piney River at Spring Creek; BPM 37; shell only (10-15) |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
35N |
10W |
10 |
02/18/94 |
Big Piney River, BPM 36; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
34N |
10W |
5 |
07/14/94 |
Big Piney River; BPM 04; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
35N |
10W |
7 |
08/06/94 |
Big Piney River; BPM 41; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
35N |
10W |
6 |
10/15/94 |
Big Piney River; BPM 42; one shell |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
36N |
10W |
17
|
10/31/94 |
Big Piney River at Devil's Elbow; 57 live specimens |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
36N |
10W |
7 |
09/03/95 |
Big Piney River north of I-44 bridge; 250 live specimens |
Cumberlandia monodonta |
Spectaclecase |
C2 WL |
34N |
12W |
24 |
12/04/93 |
Roubidoux Creek; RM 11; one shell |
Ptychobranchus occidentalis |
Ouachita kidneyshell |
C2 WL |
34N |
10W |
8 |
12/01/93 |
Big Piney River; BPM 01; one weathered shell |
Note: C2 status is no longer used by USFWS.
Table 8. Fish known to occur in Big Piney River, Roubidoux Creek, and associated tributaries.
|
Scientific Name1 |
Common Name |
Fleener et al. (1974)2 |
Pflieger (1974)3 |
Pflieger (1975)4 |
This Study |
Petromyzonidae |
Lampreys |
||||
Ichthyomyzon castaneus |
Chestnut lamprey |
B |
|||
Ichthyomyzon fossor |
Northern brook lamprey |
B |
B |
||
Lepisosteidae |
Gars |
||||
Lepisosteus osseus |
Longnose gar |
B |
B |
B |
B |
Lepisosteus platostomus |
Shortnose gar |
B |
|||
Hiodontidae |
Mooneyes |
||||
Hiodon tergisus
|
Mooneye |
B |
B | ||
Anguillidae |
Eels |
||||
Anguilla rostrata |
American eel |
B |
B |
||
Clupeidae |
Herrings |
||||
Alosa chrysochloris |
Skipjack herring |
B |
|||
Dorosoma cepedianum |
Gizzard shad |
B |
B |
B |
B |
Cyprinidae |
Minnows |
||||
Campostoma anomalum |
Central stoneroller |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,EG,FH,
|
Campostoma oligolepis |
Largescale stoneroller |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,BH,FH,
|
Carassius auratus |
Goldfish |
B |
|||
Cyprinella spiloptera |
Spotfin shiner |
B |
B |
B |
B |
Cyprinus carpio |
Common carp |
B |
B |
B | |
Erimystax x-punctatus |
Gravel chub |
B |
B |
B |
B |
Luxilus chrysocephalus |
Striped shiner |
|
|
B |
B,R,HH |
Luxilus zonatus |
Bleeding shiner |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,BH,EG,
|
Lythrurus umbratilis |
Redfin shiner |
B |
B |
B,R |
B |
Nocomis biguttatus |
Hornyhead chub |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,FH |
Notemigonus crysoleucas |
Golden shiner |
B |
B |
B |
|
Notropis boops |
Bigeye shiner |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,EG,
|
Notropis greenei |
Wedgespot shiner |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,FH |
Notropis heterolepis
|
Blacknose shiner |
B |
B |
B,R |
R |
Notropis nubilus |
Ozark minnow |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,EG,TH |
Notropis rubellus |
Rosyface shiner |
B |
B |
B |
B,R |
Notropis stramineus |
Sand shiner |
R | |||
Phoxinus erythrogaster |
Southern redbelly dace |
B |
B |
B |
B,R,
|
Pimephales notatus |
Bluntnose minnow |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R |
Pimephales promelas |
Fathead minnow |
BH | |||
Semotilus atromaculatus |
Creek chub |
B |
B |
B |
B,R,
|
Catostomidae |
Suckers |
||||
Carpiodes carpio |
River carpsucker |
B |
|||
Carpiodes cyprinus |
Quillback |
B |
B |
||
Carpiodes velifer
|
Highfin carpsucker |
B |
|||
Catostomus commersoni |
White sucker |
B |
B |
B,R |
R |
Hypentelium nigricans |
Northern hog sucker |
B |
B |
B,R |
B,R,TH |