Slickrock: Keeping it Together

A sign at the beginning of the Slickrock trail provides information on biological soil crust.

NPS/Isabel Gonzalez

Quick Facts

Location:

Canyonlands: The Needles

Significance:

Wayside Panel

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

You may not see it, but the desert floor around you is teaming with life. Notice the rough texture and dark color of the soil surface. This indicates the presence of biological soil crust, which forms when microscopic cyanobacteria bind sand and other soil particles together, creating a place for algae, moss and fungi to grow. This microbial community transforms dry sand into a life-giving environment.  

Biological crusts can be found around the world, but the significance of these micro-communities in the desert is profound. The bumpy surface captures seeds and precious drops of water, and the microbes provide vital nutrients to plants. Crust organisms also precent soil loss from rain and dust storms, protecting Canyonlands' clear skies and scenic views. 

Because the organisms grow within 1/8th inch (3mm) of the surface, small impacts have big effects on soil conditions. Even a single footstep crushes this fragile system. Livestock grazing, off-road vehicle travel, and land development can lead to broad-scale damage, the effects of which are being studied today. 

Protect fragile soils by walking only on designated trails, bare rock, or streambeds.  

The bottom left side of the panel displays a small image of premature soil crust growth with a caption that reads, Biological soil crust is almost invisible at early stages of growth, then develops a dark, lumpy surface if allowed to grow undisturbed over a long period of time.