Wetland Plants Of Great Salt Lake: A guide to identification, communities, & bird habitat

The wetlands of Great Salt Lake (GSL) are internationally important bird use areas, ecological wonders, and local treasures. I feel lucky to have spent each summer during 2012–2015 immersed in these wetlands, identifying plants as part of my dissertation work at Utah State University. Originally, the plant data I gathered was intended to be used in developing an index of the condition of GSL wetlands; however, it quickly became apparent that the data would also provide useful information for a wide range of organizations, agencies, and people. Around this same time, Maureen Frank was working on a guide to GSL wetland vegetation and how to manage native plants as high-quality habitat for birds. This book is a combination of Maureen’s and my research and showcases a current, comprehensive list of GSL wetland plants. Native wetland plants are the first link in complex food webs, and they highlight the unique ecology of each wetland community and the diversity of wetland-dependent bird species. From deep, submergent wetlands at the heart of conservation areas, to the flat, salty playas where killdeer dart back and forth, my hope is that this guide provides you a window into the fascinating inner workings of GSL wetlands. Together, I believe our efforts in dedicating time, knowledge, and resources to understanding GSL wetland plants will benefit every species that depends on these wetlands, including ourselves.