Mile 1.2, Lees Backbone, Upstream View from River Left (Stake 2562)
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28 December 1889
This upstream view from Lee’s Backbone shows the upstream part of the Paria River debris fan and the Paria Riffle. The debris fan has had a recent flood, which constricts the Colorado River, and it has no riparian vegetation vegetation. Higher river banks sustain shrubby riparian vegetation, likely arrowweed. On the ledge beyond the camera station, Mormon teas dot the cliff top.
Photo credit: Franklin A. Nims, 57-RS-269, courtesy of The National Archives
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11 February 1992
In this view of Lee’s Ferry, the road, boat ramp, and parking lot that were constructed upstream from the debris fan in the 1960s are visible. The Mormon teas on the far ledge persist and there is a new plant on the near ledge. The large rock in the center of the river has not moved, while the two smaller rocks upstream have disappeared. The river eroded away the constriction apparent in 1889, probably during spring runoff in 1890. Riparian vegetation – mostly non-native tamarisk – established on the debris fan.
Photo credit: Ted Melis
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21 April 2011
Riparian vegetation has increased along the river, in part because of flood control operations of Glen Canyon Dam but also because this view was taken later in the spring and plants are leafed out. The riparian area below the parking lot has been actively planted with cottonwoods and willows in a restoration effort. The Mormon tea individuals persist on the cliff tops after 122 years.
Photo credit: Bill Lemke
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