Natural Heritage New Mexico, in association with SWCA Environmental consultants, is working collaboratively with NMED Surface Water Quality Bureau  to develop a cutting-edge, rapid assessment methodology (RAM) for riverine wetlands of the Upper Rio Grande watershed that integrates functional assessments such as the Hydrogeomorphic Approach with Ecological Integrity Assessment.  Also incorporated into the RAM process are a number of local and national experts who make up the RAM Advisement Team.  Currently, work is proceeding on the draft RAM Users Handbook which will guide field data collection in the summer of 2009.  The handbook will be revised using the 2009 data, and a final draft should be available to the public in 2010.

For further information on the RAM process or products contact Elizabeth Milford at 505-277-3822, x227

Gunnison's Prairie-Dog

Natural Heritage Surveys for Prairie Dogs Using Remote Sensing

Across their ranges, populations of black-tailed and Gunnison’s prairie dogs have declined dramatically over the last 100 years. The black-tailed prairie dog is being considered for listing under the Endangered Species Act, and the Gunnison’s is a candidate for listing over part of its range, including north-central New Mexico. Prairie dogs dig burrows and disturb vegetation, creating bare areas visible on aerial photographs. Since 2001, NHNM zoologist Kristine Johnson, GIS analyst Teri Neville, and their students have been surveying for prairie dog towns using digital aerial photography. This method is a rapid and economical method of surveying and monitoring these species of conservation concern across large landscapes and in areas with few roads.