Human development of the Colorado River, in order to alleviate water and energy shortages in the American Southwest, has caused stress on riparian ecosystems. As a result, foreign plant species can thrive. Through literature review, this project examined the complex relationship between river development, water limitations and invasives such as Tamarix. It was found that Tamarix may not be as high a water consumer as previously assumed, but has contributed to an ongoing pattern of declining ecosystem health.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Howcroft, Bryan John

Subject

• Sustainability
• Environment
• Water
• Community

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 03D175I

Keyword

• Habitat conservation
• Wildlife conservation
• North America--Colorado River Watershed
• Water-supply--Environmental aspects

Advisor

• Crusberg, Theodore C.

Year

• 2003

Date created

• 2003-01-01

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright