Survey & Stewardship

In response to the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire that impacted over 48,000 acres in the Columbia Gorge Scenic Area, Mosaic Ecology was hired to survey, identify, map and control the emerging invasive plants species through the heavily affected recreational areas. Working in partnership with a variety of stakeholders and agencies, we took a pivotal role in designing and creating an action plan. Over the course of a two-year period, Mosaic surveyed over 20 highly priority areas including trailheads, trails and parks on both State and Forest service land. More than 200 species were targeted for surveys and observations were recorded by GPS. The target populations were later revisited by Mosaic for control to mitigate the spread of invasive species and to protect the native fauna.    

Our data technicians and crew leaders surveyed over 200 acres, not only to record the non-indigenous populations but to observe the post fire succession of native plant communities. By using GPS data to create detailed maps, we were able to track the movement and distribution of invasive species over the course of years to provide stakeholders with the information and to increase efficacy of the control methods. Mosaic has already committed over 3,000 hours to actively surveying, mapping and restoring these high profile areas and will continue to enhance the habitat so that it can be enjoyed by all visitors of the Gorge.