Texas A&M Forest Service Survey Reveals Resilience of Baldcypress Trees Along Guadalupe River
The majestic baldcypress trees lining the Guadalupe River in Central Texas have endured a tumultuous period over the past four years, facing a significant decrease in water levels due to the collapse of a hydroelectric dam. However, a recent survey conducted by the Texas A&M Forest Service brings some encouraging news about the health and resilience of these ancient giants.
The survey, led by Texas A&M Forest Service Staff Forester Jeff McFall, focused on assessing the condition of baldcypress trees along a seven-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River. The study was prompted by concerns raised among shoreline property owners following the sudden drop in water levels caused by the dam collapse in May 2019.
The collapse of the hydroelectric dam on Lake Dunlap resulted in a dramatic release of water, leading to a significant decline in water levels upstream of the Guadalupe River. As the water retreated, many baldcypress trees found themselves exposed, with sections of their once-submerged roots now high and dry. This raised concerns about the trees’ health and survival among property owners along the shoreline.
After four years of diminished water levels, a replacement dam was completed in July 2023, gradually restoring water levels to normal. In light of these developments, the Texas A&M Forest Service embarked on a comprehensive survey to assess the impact on baldcypress trees.
The findings of the survey revealed a remarkable resilience among the baldcypress population. Out of 1,195 trees surveyed along the river, 88.3% were found to be alive, while 11.7% were determined to be dead. Despite concerns about disease and pest infestation, the survey found no evidence of widespread issues, although wood borers were present in dead-standing trees.
According to McFall, the survival of baldcypress trees during periods of low water levels can be attributed to their remarkable adaptability to drought conditions. During dry spells, the trees enter a semi-dormant state, appearing as though they are dying, but retaining water internally. With the return of water, many of these seemingly lifeless trees revive and begin to flourish once again.
However, the survey also highlighted the vulnerability of baldcypress trees to prolonged water scarcity. Most of the dead trees were found clustered on undeveloped lots or farm and ranch lands with no supplemental irrigation. In contrast, only a few dead trees were located on properties that received landscape irrigation, despite facing drought conditions.
Over the past four years, the Texas A&M Forest Service has been actively engaged in assisting landowners in preserving their baldcypress trees. McFall emphasized the importance of irrigation during dry periods, recommending a watering rate of 0.6 inches per week to maintain soil moisture levels conducive to tree health.
Looking ahead, plans are underway to dewater downstream lakes McQueeney and Placid in preparation for dam construction projects. The survey results offer hope for the survival of baldcypress trees in these areas, with McFall suggesting that most trees on developed properties should withstand the dewatering process with adequate landscape water.
To further protect trees with exposed roots, McFall recommends covering them with mulch and ensuring moisture retention during dry spells through the use of dripper hoses or sprinklers.
The survey conducted by the Texas A&M Forest Service underscores the resilience of baldcypress trees in the face of environmental challenges and highlights the importance of proactive conservation efforts in safeguarding these ancient treasures.