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(.9gropyron truchycaulum), Green needle-grass (Stipu viridulcr), and Russian wildrye. Several <br />perennial forb species worth noting include Small bumet (Sungtrisorba minor) and Prairie <br />sage (Artemisia ludoviciuna). The Small bumet appeared to be present primarily on the north <br />face of the area. A moderate amount of Fourwing sal[bush seedlings were noted during the <br />inspection. <br />The dominant weed species included Cheatgrass and Barley (Hordeum vulgare). In certain <br />areas these annual grasses dominated the site. Barley originated from the straw mulch and is <br />not expected to persist for many years. The Cheatgrass, while less prevalent than prior to the <br />recent reseeding, was dense enough to reestablish a substantial seed bank for future growing <br />seasons. <br />The area remains stable with little or no signs of erosion on the slopes. This site demonstrates <br />that one ton of straw mulch per acre is adequate to hold the soil in place even following the <br />intense rains of the fall of 97 and summer of 98. Based on these observations it is advisable <br />to decrease the currently prescribed 2 tons per acre straw mulch application rate to one ton. <br />The greater application rate would also increase the problem of volunteer crops competing <br />with the desired seedlings. <br />Consideration should be given to spaying portions of the area with Oust in the spring or fall to <br />control infestations of Cheatgrass and Barley to aid in initial stand establishment. <br />Soil Stockpiles <br />Many of the soil stockpiles were inspected to provide insight for future reclamation projects. <br />Only select piles will be discussed in detail here to address specitic issues. <br />Cheatgrass dominates only certain topsoil stockpiles. Most stockpiles are covered with a <br />good stand of perennial grasses indicating that Cheatgrass should not be a problem on areas <br />reclaimed using these soils. <br />