Origin of Soil Mounds Associated with Clumps of Ribes velutinum

Abstract

The mounds of soil associated with multi-stem clumps of Ribes velutinum Greene are apparently the result of rodent activity and are not remnant erosion surfaces. The development of the mounds is a dynamic response to stand renewal by burning. Rodents apparently are attracted by the increase in annuals, especially downy brome, which occurs after fire. The protection of the spiney clumps of resprouting Ribes provides a safe place for the rodents to build their dens.