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Numerous studies, including Sims (1977), Merkel, et al (1974) and <br />• McGinnies (1963) indicate the effectiveness of such species as <br />intermediate wheatgrass, pubescent wheatgrass, smooth brome and <br />alfalfa to provide for erosion control on disturbed sites. As <br />stated earlier, these species are able to establish themselves on <br />the severe conditions encountered on reclaimed areas, providing <br />early growth and plant cover thus stabilizing the site. Once the <br />site has been established, a stable environment is provided in <br />which native species can develop. <br />Numerous studies, including Kufeld, et al (1973), Plummer, et al <br />(1968), Marquiss, et al (1974), Gomm (1969), and DePuit, et al <br />(1976) document the desirability and compatibility of the intro- <br />duced species for range seeding from a wildlife and domestic <br />livestock standpoint. These studies document such things as the <br />preference for introduced species by Mule Deer, Elk and livestock <br />due to the high palatability and nutritional values of these <br />species. <br />Further justification for the use of introduced species involves <br />the availability of certain native species, adapted to the Colowyo <br />• site on a commercial basis. During some years, conditions may <br />arise due to drought, disease, etc., where the availability of <br />sufficient quantities of certain native species may become limited, <br />resulting in the increased use of other species, including <br />introduced species. Therefore, it is necessary to provide the <br />flexibility in a seed mixture that allows for these unforeseen <br />problems. A large diverse mixture with both natives and introduced <br />species provides the flexibility of developing a desirable seed <br />mixture on a yearly basis, while not being adversely affected by <br />unfavorable commercial seed market conditions. (Bibliography <br />follows.) <br /> <br />2.05-50 <br />