This prioritization framework identifies watersheds where persistently productive mesic vegetation in riparian valley bottoms co-occurs (within 5 km) with intact sagebrush uplands, as defined by the Sagebrush Conservation Design (SCD) Core and Growth Areas. Watersheds (HUC12) are classified into three actionable management tiers based on vegetation productivity. Vegetation persistence reflects how consistently a valley bottom supported productive green vegetation over the past 40 years — a proxy for long-term water availability.

Tier 1 – Protect and Maintain: Watersheds with abundant high-persistence valley bottoms near intact sagebrush uplands, indicating hydrologically connected and stable mesic systems. Priority for easements and protection to sustain existing function.

Tier 2 – Restore and Enhance: Watersheds where high-persistence areas are interspersed with moderate-persistence zones, suggesting water is present but not effectively distributed throughout the floodplain. The greatest opportunity for restoration investment and return.

Tier 3 – Strategically Manage: Watersheds with limited but present mesic vegetation, largely in water-limited landscapes. Selective, targeted interventions can maintain critical habitat features, though site-specific field assessment is recommended.

For more information, see Beyond Uplands: Integrating Riparian Areas into Sagebrush Conservation Design for a More Resilient West (bioRxiv preprint; Mueller et al., in review).