01-28-14 Field Note

Range Restoration

Humans have exerted a major influence on plant communities across MPG Ranch that began with fires set by the Native American and continued with intensive livestock grazing, farming, and herbicide applications.  The overall result of these activities is that low diversity and low productivity plant communities composed mainly of non-native plants cover many areas.  In many cases the existing undesired vegetation is hardy and resistant to replacement, after all it is the stuff that has survived grazing, herbicide applications, and the ranch’s harsh climate.   The updates and reports in this section show the approaches we take to figure out the best ways to restore diverse and productive plant communities. The Restoration Map under the maps heading is the best way to explore our restoration work. The map interface allows researchers to explain our methods and research in a chronological and spatial context. Abstracts and links to major updates and plans will be visible on this page.

Rangeland diversification- In some cases we use herbicide applications combined with fire and drill seeding to establish new communities. 

Assisted Succession- We have also developed a new approach to restoration of weedy areas using a naturally herbicide resistant initial plant to reclaim weed infestations.  The plant is called sainfoin.  It is a legume that enriches the soil and allows us to kill-off the weeds seed bank before we re-plant.