2019-01-17_PERMIT FILE - C1981008A (2)

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Species selection for the irrigated pasture mixes was based on these items: (1) irrigated pasture mixtures should be simple, with one to two grasses and a legume; (2) the legume should be a persistent, adapted, non -bloating species; and (3) the grass component should be palatable, nutritious, persistent and compatible in the stand. Alfalfa, the desirable legume for Seed Mix #5, is selected for its long history of production and longevity in the local area. The Soil Conservation Service local extension recommended varieties shown in Seed Mix #5. Birdsfoot trefoil, selected as the legume for Seed Mix #6, is a long-lived perennial forage legume that is non -bloating, winter hardy, and adapted to a range of site conditions including poorly drained sites. Though a slow starter, once established it is persistent in the stand, particularly if seeded in alternate rows. The seed must be inoculated with a specific strain of Rhizobium bacteria. Other coal companies have used meadow brome in their operations (specifically, Peabody's Big Sky Mine in Montana). The use of meadow brome is supported by the enthusiastic recommendation of its use in irrigated pastures by the Colorado State University Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service. Meadow brome is highly palatable but persists well in irrigated pastures and has nutrient qualities at least as high as smooth brome. Orchardgrass has been a common and proven component in irrigated pastures for years because of its palatability, nutrient qualities, compatibility with legumes and other grasses, and productive ability. Creeping foxtail remain the best adapted desirable pasture grasses for poorly drained or wet conditions. Garrison creeping foxtail is a good producer once established, being both highly palatable and nutritious. The species in Seed Mix #5 will function equally well for establishing the irrigated pasture type. Grasses are dominant in the mix and the resulting stand will also be dominated by grasses. Seed Mix #6 has Alsike Clover, Redtop and Timothy grasses. Alsike Clover is a nitrogen fixing legume that is suited to irrigated, wet conditions. Redtop and timothy are rated "high" for cow, horse and elk feed preference. Feed preference has palatability, nutrition, total digestible nutrients and other factors involve. In other words, livestock will readily go to Redtop and Timothy grasses for feed. Local ranchers and farmers are accustom to, have used and prefer theses grasses. They are also suited to irrigated conditions. Seed Mix #5 - Irrigated Pasture Well - Drained Sites Scientific Name Common Name PLS/Acre* Bromus biebersteinii Meadow Brome 6 Dactylis glomerata Orchardgrass 2 Medca o Sativa Alfalfa 2 Total 10 Note: Alfalfa seed must be inoculated with a specific strain of Rhizobium bacteria. Page 23 May 2016 (TR -75)