Different plant communities live above and below ditches

Different plant communities live above and below ditches.

Above a ditch: Xeric short-grass prairie

  • Water: from normal rainfall
  • Total water: 12 - 15 inches of water per year

Below a ditch: Cottonwoods, willows, pasture grass, crops, ornamentals, more

  • Water: Rainfall plus 12-30 inches of irrigation
  • Total water: 22 - 45 inches of water per year
Below, Left: Xeric plant community. Photo courtesy of Christopher Brown.

Below, Right: Riparian plant community.



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