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