NSCC Thorton Creek Lab
NAME:__________________________
INTRODUCTION The NSCC area provides an excellent opportunity to explore the topics of
forest ecology, watersheds and wetlands. Within these topics, we will focus on some fundamental
principles and features, effects of human impact, and approaches to management/environmental
mitigation.
PART I: Common Plants of the Thorton Creek Watershed
For the following plants, provide a physical description and ecology.
TREES
Western Red-cedar
Douglas-fir
Willow
Cottonwood
Bigleaf Maple
Vine Maple
SHRUBS
Wild Rose
Oregon Grape
Horsetail
Swordfern
Himalayan Blackberry
English Ivy
PART II: Some Terms Covered on this Field Trip
Using full sentences, give a brief but complete definition, including the context, for the following
terms discussed on the field trip.
Wetland
2
Watershed
Anadromous
PART III: Discussion Questions
1. a. How do paved surfaces affect the water quality and quantity of a stream?
2. Describe 4 functions performed by wetlands.
3. How do invasive, non-native species affect diversity and plant community structure?
3