ET From Groundwater Dependent Plant Communities: Comparison of Micrometeorological and Vegetation-based Measurements
Purpose: to provide direct measurements of evapotranspiration (ET) using micrometeorological methods to corroborate Green Book estimates derived from vegetation transpiration curves. If accurate, estimating ET from simple vegetation measurements offers important advantages for groundwater management. The ET component of the groundwater balance is not well quantified, and results from this study may be applied to improve numerical groundwater models. ET estimates also may be an important component of improved groundwater management strategies.

Characterization of Confining Layer Hydrologic Conductivity and Storage Properties
Purpose: to determine confining layer hydrologic properties to assist groundwater modeling efforts and improve the management of wells sealed to the deep aquifer. Without this information, the magnitude and timing of the effects of pumping deep aquifers will remain difficult to predict. A stepwise approach is proposed starting with analysis of existing data and progressing to low and high intensity field projects, if necessary.

Shallow and Deep Groundwater Geochemistry and the Source of Spring and Seep Water
Purpose: to improve groundwater modeling efforts to predict the effects of distant pumping on springs and seeps. This study will examine the geochemical signatures of springs and seeps and compare them to shallow and deep groundwater samples collected nearby to identify the source of the water.

Application of Canonical Community Ordination to Assess Vegetation Change
Purpose: to apply complex statistical techniques to an extensive dataset of vegetation measurements to quantify the importance of several environmental factors influencing vegetation changes observed in the last decade. To manage groundwater pumping and avoid adverse changes in vegetation, it is imperative to quantify the extent that water table fluctuations and other environmental factors affect vegetation over the long-term.

Inventory and Classification of Riparian Vegetation in the Owens Valley
Purpose: to inventory, classify, and map riparian vegetation on Los Angeles land in the Owens Valley to improve monitoring and management of these areas. To understand and measure groundwater pumping effects on sensitive vegetation requires quantitative data on what vegetation is present and appropriate techniques to monitor it.

Development of a Demographic Model for Nevada saltbush (Atriplex torreyi)
Purpose: to use existing data for Nevada saltbush to develop a model that could allow researchers and managers to predict future population trends based on present conditions. This capability will provide the Inyo/Los Angeles Technical Group advance warning of the gradual conversion of one vegetation type to another, which is not allowed under the agreement.

Development of a Plant Community Dynamics Model for Owens Valley Vegetation
Purpose: to explore options for developing a model to simulate the response of plant communities to different groundwater and vegetation management scenarios. This study will be developed following the completion of an air photo study currently underway.