SURVEYING SPRINGS AND SEEPS AT BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Springs and seeps provide insight into groundwater quantity and quality, creating key habitats for flora and fauna in arid landscapes of the American Southwest. While previous surveys have collected water quality data at springs and seeps in Bryce Canyon National Park, the most recent park wide water quality survey was conducted in 1996. More recent studies often focused on a small number of easily accessible springs and rarely recorded biodiversity at sites. Consequently, the 2022 spring survey includes water quality, geomorphology, vegetation, wildlife, anthropogenic and cattle disturbance, and geospatial data. The 2022 survey includes over 40 springs and seeps within the park, recording 10 new springs not sampled in 1996. Through the survey, over 20 springs were sampled for the first time since 1996, while 10 new springs were recorded for the 2022 survey. The survey data will be used to further conceptualize groundwater flow in Bryce Canyon National Park and establish a modern baseline of spring health to inform future management. Springs and seeps are biodiversity hotspots and often host unique biota in arid environments. As drought persists on the Northern Colorado Plateau, it is critical that national parks continue to monitor changes in water quality, water quantity, and ecosystem health at springs and seeps.