Hydric and mesic riparian plant species data for quantifying divergent physiological responses to a Colorado River experimental flow

These data were compiled to assess physiological responses of plants to short-term changes in streamflow, both increased and decreased. Objective(s) of our study were to determine the degree to which plants with different habitat preferences and functional strategies responded to short-term increases or decreases in the elevation of the water table. These data represent streamflow rates, temperature, and metrics of plant water status. These data were collected in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area from March 13-27, 2021, and collected by the U.S. Geological Survey-Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center. Streamflow data were obtained from the Lees Ferry gage station, and temperature data were obtained from the Lees Ferry weather station. Plant water status metrics were measured with a Meter SC-1 porometer, PMS Instruments 1505D-EXP pressure chamber, and through gravimetric methods. These data can be used to infer impacts of altered streamflows to the physiological status of riparian plant species.