Protocols for Monitoring Ecological Recovery of Reclaimed Well Pads on Grasslands

We developed a scientifically robust monitoring protocol to enable a consistent assessment of ecological recovery of physical, chemical, and biological indicators at certified reclaimed industrial well pads on grasslands. Using the developed protocols, data can be generated from measurement of soil, vegetation, and landscape indicators at reclaimed well pads and adjacent reference sites. We selected the appropriate vegetation, soil, and habitat indicators for a long-term reclamation monitoring program and have provided sampling protocols for the selected indicators here. The protocols may be used to identify and prioritize indicators of reduced ecosystem health and to track ecological recovery of reclaimed sites over time. The development of these integrated monitoring protocols is a first step towards successful and consistent long-term monitoring to assess ecological recovery of certified reclaimed well pads on grasslands.