A review of natural and managed revegetation responses in two de-watered reservoirs after large dam removals on the Elwha River, Washington, USA

Abstract

Large dam removals are increasing in frequency and the response of natural and managed revegetation is a critical consideration for managed restoration of dewatered reservoir landscapes post dam removal. The removal of two large dams on the Elwha River in 2011-2014 provides insight into reservoir revegetation. We review literature and datasets from 2012 through 2018, 1-6 years since reservoir dewatering, to compare pre-dam removal predictions on the Elwha to post-dam removal of natural revegetation, managed revegetation effects and invasive non-native vegetation response. Pre-dam removal hypotheses about natural revegetation did not predict species performance on reservoir sediments, seed rain patterns, or seed bank response. Sediment texture and landform affected multiple aspects of revegetation, including vegetation cover, species richness, woody stem densities and species composition. Reservoir drawdown timing influenced species composition and seedling densities. Predictions about managed revegetation effects were mixed. Planting trees and shrubs did not accelerate woody cover but did increase species richness. Seeding reduced non-native vegetation frequency and species richness, had no effect on vegetation cover on fine sediments, but increased vegetation cover on coarse sediments. Planting trees and shrubs during drawdown appeared to result in higher survival rates compared to plantings installed 1+ years post drawdown. Seeding Lupinus rivularis (riverbank lupine) on coarse sediments was successful and increased foliar nitrogen in planted conifers. Invasive non-native vegetation was correctly predicted to be more abundant in the Aldwell reservoir but did not preclude native species establishment in either reservoir, likely due to rapid establishment of native species and robust management that occurred before, during and after dam removal.