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_. <br />spring precipitation and when soil temperatures are optimum for germination, usually <br />before the end of April. Zbwarrlc the end of June In anticipation of July and August <br />rains. late June seedings in Custer County actually work quite well as soil temperatures <br />are still conducive to germination and there isn't nearly the problem with weeds that <br />usually accrn~any earlier seedings. <br />Seed should be planted with the use of a grass drill equipped with a satisfactory <br />feeding mechanism, agitator, depth bands and packer wheels and should be planted to a <br />depth of 1/2 to 3/4 inches. If a broadcast method is used then the seeding rate should <br />be doubled and the entire area raked over to incorporate the seed into the soil. At this <br />point you may want to roll the area to better stabilize the soil surface and firmly bed <br />the seed. ' <br />Once the seeding is complete, mulch should be applied at the rate of 4000 lbs/ac <br />of grass hay. Native meadow hay works well for this as it doesn't volunteer readily in <br />non-irrigated areas and it is available locally. Be sure that the hay is not contaminated <br />with either Canada thistle or leafy spurge. Nhilch should then be anchored into the soil <br />by using a crimper. If a cringer is not available then it is possible to use a straight <br />disk as long as the seedbed is not turned over. <br />lastly, it is important that critical azea plantings be protected from people, <br />vehicles, livestock or any other type of disturbance for at least two years or until the <br />native perennial grasses aze well established. This may require fencing off the area if <br />thew is to be any of this type of activity. <br />I have not brought up the subject of seeding the stockpiled topsoil as it is limited <br />in supply and that which is already there appears to have sufficient vegetation on it. <br />If you have any questions regarding this recam~endation please don't hesitate to <br />contact me. <br />Sincerely, <br />~~~~ <br />Alan R. Forkey - <br />SCS District Conservationist <br />Westcliffe <br /> <br />encl: 3 <br />cc: file <br />r <br />