Great Basin Native Plant 

Selection and Increase Project 

FY06 Progress Report 

USDI Bureau of Land Management Great Basin Restoration Initiative 

USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, 

Shrub Sciences Laboratory, Provo, UT and Boise, ID 

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Great Basin Research Center, Ephraim, UT 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, Forage and Range Research Laboratory, Logan, UT 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, Bee Biology and Systematics Laboratory, Logan, UT 

Utah Crop Improvement Association, Logan, UT 

Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies, Moline, IL 

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service - Idaho, Utah, Nevada, 

and the Aberdeen Plant Materials Center, Aberdeen, ID 

Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 

USDA Forest Service, National Seed Laboratory, Dry Branch, GA 

Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, Tri-River Area, Grand Junction, CO 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, Western Regional Plant Introduction Station, 

Pullman, WA 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station, Ontario, OR 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, 

Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Burns, OR 
Great Basin Native Plant 

Selection and Increase Project 

FY06 Progress Report 

March 2007 

 

COOPERATORS 

USDI Bureau of Land Management, Great Basin Restoration Initiative 

USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, 

Shrub Sciences Laboratory, Provo, UT and Aquatic Sciences Laboratory, Boise, ID 

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Great Basin Research Center, Ephraim, UT 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, Forage and Range Research Laboratory, Logan, UT 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, Bee Biology and Systematics Laboratory, Logan, UT 

Utah Crop Improvement Association, Logan, UT 

Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies, Moline, IL 

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, 

and Aberdeen Plant Materials Center, Aberdeen, ID 

Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 

USDA Forest Service, National Seed Laboratory, Dry Branch, GA 

Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, Tri-River Area, Grand Junction, CO 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, Western Regional Plant Introduction Station, 

Pullman, WA 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station, Ontario, OR 

USDA Agricultural Research Service, 

Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Burns, OR 

i
Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project 

 FY06 Progress Report 

Introduction 

The use of native plants for rehabilitation after wildfires and restoration of disturbed 

wildlands is being encouraged by various BLM programs, initiatives, and policies. Examples 

include the 2001-2006 Interior Appropriations Bills, the Great Basin Restoration Initiative, 

Departmental guidance (DOI Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation Manual), Executive 

Order 13112 (Invasive Species – 2/99) and the BLM’s Standards for Rangeland Health. The 

2007 USDI Healthy Lands Initiative calls for landscape-scale restoration to reduce the spread 

of invasive species and re-establish native communities. 

This project integrates several proposals to increase native plant production and use within the 

Great Basin, utilizing an applied science approach in a collaborative project. Original partners 

in this proposal included BLM (Utah, Idaho, and Nevada); USDA Forest Service, Rocky 

Mountain Research Station, Grassland, Shrubland and Desert Ecosystems Program, Boise, ID 

and Provo, UT; Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Great Basin Research Center, Ephraim, 

UT; Utah Crop Improvement Association, Logan, UT; USDA Agricultural Research Service, 

Forage and Range Research Laboratory, Logan, UT; and USDA Agricultural Research 

Service, Bee Biology and Systematics Laboratories, Logan, UT. Other cooperators have been 

added over time to address specific research issues. 

Project Priorities 

The project covers development of native plant materials and practices for their use on 

degraded rangelands. Initial and ongoing priorities include: 1) development of native plant 

materials for restoration and the cultural practices required for their increase; 2) management 

or re-establishment of wildland seed sources; 3) technology to improve the diversity of 

introduced species monocultures; and 4) technology transfer. Focus of the Project is now 

shifting to include development of application strategies and technologies to improve native 

plant establishment. New projects in 2006 included studies to evaluate rangeland drills and 

determine appropriate native seed application rates. The BLM representatives recommend that 

following identification of a funding level for this proposal, the BLM representatives, with 

input from the cooperators, will develop priorities, given the available funding. 

This document provides a review of work completed in 2006. Appendix I summarizes 

ongoing plant materials research and the principal investigators for each study. 

Funding Strategy 

This effort requires sustained funding over a long period to be successful. To meet this need, 

Interagency Agreements are used to transfer the majority of the approved funds to the USDA 

FS Rocky Mountain Research Station, Grassland, Shrubland and Desert Ecosystem Program. 

ii
Mike Pellant, Great Basin Restoration Initiative Coordinator, is the Contracting Officer’s 

Representative for the Agreement. The BLM representatives recommend that following 

identification of annual funding levels, the BLM representatives, with input from the 

cooperators, will develop priorities. The Rocky Mountain Research, Grassland, Shrubland and 

Desert Ecosystems Program prepares or amends agreements with the other cooperators on this 

project and distributes funding to these other entities per the Interagency Agreement and 

annual task orders. The Rocky Mountain Research Station assesses a reasonable 12% indirect 

charge used internally to administer this assistance agreement with BLM for in-house 

funding. No indirect charge is assessed on pass-through funds to cooperators. An estimated 20 

WM’s per year will be required from FY02-08 for BLM coordination in the states of Utah, 

Oregon and Nevada, however, BLM will pursue these needs outside of this agreement. 

Acknowledgments 

We thank our collaborators for their expertise and in kind contributions that have made it 

possible to address the many issues involved in native plant materials development and use. 

We offer a special thanks to Durant McArthur for his continuing support and to Ann DeBolt 

for her assistance in writing and compiling this report and for her contributions to the Project. 

Nancy Shaw, Team Leader Mike Pellant, Coordinator 

Great Basin Native Plant Great Basin Restoration Initiative 

Selection and Increase Project 

iii
Table of Contents

Nancy Shaw Plant material development, seed technology and seed 

Ann DeBolt production of Great Basin forbs.......................................1 

Robert Cox 

Durant McArthur Forb and shrub genetics research...................................12 

Stewart Sanderson 

Scott Jensen Status of work with Astragalus, Agoseris, Lupinus, Phlox, 

And Hesperostipa......................................................14 

Jason Vernon Native plant material development and seed and seeding 

Therese Meyer technology for native Great Basin forbs and grasses............19 

Alison Whittaker 

R.C. Johnson Genetic diversity patterns of Allium acuminatum in the 

Barbara Hellier Great Basin.............................................................29

 

Loren St. John Establishment and maintenance of certified Generation 1 

Dan Ogle (G1) seed. Propagation of native forbs. Plant display nursery 

evaluation. Development of technology to improve the 

diversity of introduced grass stands................................37 

Tom Jones Native plant genetics, ecophysiology, plant materials 

Steve Larson development, and seed increase.....................................47 

Mike Peel 

Tom Monaco 

Doug Johnson 

Val Anderson Agronomic and cultural care of wildland plants, and seed 

Robert Johnson yield losses in forbs (Asteraceae) due to fruit flies 

Bruce Roundy (Tephritidae)...........................................................53 

Clinton C. Shock Seed production of native forbs shows little response to 

Erik B.G. Feibert irrigation in a wet year................................................60 

Lamont Saunders 

Clinton C. Shock Tolerance of seven native forbs to preemergence and ..........68 

Joey Ishida postemergence herbicides 

Corey Ransom 

Robert Karrfalt Development of germination protocols, seed weight, purity, 

Victor Vankus and seed conditioning/cleaning protocols for Great Basin 

grasses and forbs.......................................................80 

iv
Brad Geary Establishment of native plants through improved 

Scott Jensen propagation techniques and seedling disease control............83 

James H. Cane Pollinator and seed predator studies................................88 

Robert Hammon Insect pests of selected grass and forb species in the 

 Great Basin............................................................93 

Bruce A. Roundy Diversification of crested wheatgrass stands.....................95 

Val Anderson 

Brad Jessop 

April Hulet 

Jennifer Coleman 

Bruce Roundy Wet thermal time modeling of seedling establishment........101 

Val Anderson 

Brad Jessop 

Jennifer Coleman 

 

Jane Mangold Reestablishing native plant diversity in crested wheatgrass 

stands in the Great Basin...........................................107 

Harold Wiedemann Revegetation equipment catalog ..................................114 

Ann DeBolt The Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies 

Chet Boruff Cooperative Native Seed Increase Program.....................116 

Stanford Young Establishment and maintenance of the buy-back program for 

Michael Bouck certified seed.........................................................120 

APPENDIX 

Appendix I. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of 

Research Species............................................................127 

v
Project Title: Plant Material Development, Seed Technology and 

 Seed Production of Great Basin Forbs 

 

Project Location: USDA-FS-RMRS, Shrub Sciences Laboratory, Boise, ID 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Nancy Shaw, Research Botanist 

USDA-FS-RMRS, 322 East Front Street, Suite 401 

Boise, ID 83702 

208.373.4360, Fax: 208.373.4391 

 nshaw@fs.fed.us 

Ann DeBolt, Botanist 

USDA-FS-RMRS, 322 East Front Street, Suite 401 

Boise, ID 83702 

208.373.4366, Fax: 208.373.4391 

adebolt@fs.fed.us 

Robert Cox, Post-doctoral Research Ecologist 

USDA-FS-RMRS, 322 East Front Street, Suite 401 

Boise, ID 83702 

208.373.4358, Fax: 208.373.4391 

robertcox@fs.fed.us 

Project Description: 

Although forbs are components of most native communities, their use in revegetation has 

been limited. This work is being conducted to provide plant materials, seed supplies, and 

seed transfer guidelines for common forb species of the Great Basin. Efforts in Boise focus on 

seven species in three families: Eriogonum umbellatum (Polygonaceae); Lomatium dissectum, 

L. grayi, and L. triternatum (Apiaceae); and Penstemon acuminatus, P. deustus, and P. 

speciosus (Scrophulariaceae). Collaborative work in support of genecological research on 

several important native grass species (Pseudoroegneria spicata, Achnatherum hymenoides, 

and Poa secunda) led by project cooperators was initiated in 2006. We are beginning to 

develop application strategies and technologies to improve establishment of diverse native 

seedings that include species being developed through this project. Cooperative studies are 

examining the interactions of native restoration species with exotic wheatgrasses and 

invasives. We are also conducting a new project to evaluate rangeland drills, determine 

appropriate native seed application rates, and examine approaches for improving the 

establishment of Wyoming big sagebrush. 

1
Project Status: 

A. Native Plant Materials 

1. Native Forbs (N. Shaw and A. DeBolt) 

Penstemon spp.: In 2006, we made 11 bulk collections of P. acuminatus, 20 of P. deustus, 

and 5 of P. speciosus. Individual plant collections were made for 34 Penstemon populations 

(15-20 plants/population). Phenology, morphology, and seed production data were collected 

from dryland gardens established in 2004 at Orchard (P. deustus) and Niagra Springs (P. 

acuminatus). A new irrigated common garden of P. speciosus tubelings produced by the 

Lucky Peak Nursery were planted at the Nursery (13 sources) in May 2006 and survival data 

were collected in late summer. 

Lomatium spp.: In 2006, we made 32 bulk collections of L. dissectum, 11 collections of L. 

grayi, and 17 collections of L. triternatum. Individual plant collections were made for 14 

populations. Phenology, morphology, and flower and seed production data were collected for 

L. grayi and L. triternatum at the BSU common gardens established by direct seeding in fall 

2004. Lomatium dissectum common gardens were established by direct seeding at Lucky 

Peak Nursery (46 sources; early October) and at Wells (44 sources; late September) in 2006. 

 

Eriogonum umbellatum: In 2006, we made 19 bulk collections of E. umbellatum and 

individual plant collections from 12 populations. Common gardens of tubelings produced by 

the FS Lucky Peak Nursery were planted at two irrigated locations, Lucky Peak Nursery (20 

sources) and Boise State University (17 sources), and survival data were collected in late 

summer. An additional common garden of E. umbellatum will be planted at the Orchard 

dryland site in spring 2007. 

2. Genecology of bluebunch wheatgrass (Brad St.Clair, R.C. Johnson, Nancy Shaw, Vicky 

Erickson): Research to examine genetic variation of bluebunch wheatgrass 

([Pseudoroegneria spicata (Pursh) Á. Löve]) in relation to environmental gradients was 

initiated in 2005. Common gardens of 127 populations and five cultivars were established at 

Boise, ID; Pullman, WA; and Central Ferry, WA in fall 2006. Growth and phenological trait 

data will be collected in 2007 and 2008 for use in developing guidelines for seed transfer in 

the northern Great Basin and Pacific Northwest. (See also: Johnson and Hellier, this 

document). 

3. Seed collections (A. DeBolt): We made 142 bulk collections of 19 species and 69 

individual plant collections (15-20 plants/population) of 14 species in 2006. These included: 

a. Boise research species: 115 collections, emphasizing Lomatium dissectum and 

Eriogonum umbellatum for common garden studies. Samples of the L. dissectum 

collections were provided to USDA ARS Pullman for molecular genetics studies and 

to USDA PNW for a genecology study. 

b. Ephraim and Provo research species: 4 collections. 

c. AOSCA project: Several collections. 

2
d. USDA ARS Pullman, WA (R.C. Johnson): Twenty-five sources of Indian ricegrass 

(Achnatherum hymenoides) for common garden studies, most of these were collected 

through a contract with Berta Youtie, Eastern Oregon Stewardship Services. 

e. National Seed Laboratory: 52 accessions of 12 species for seed germination studies 

and development of seed cleaning protocols (Table 1). 

f. University of Idaho (S. Love): 3 collections of sulfur buckwheat for horticultural 

introduction evaluations. 

g. USDA ARS EOARC, Burns (J. James): One collection of L. dissectum for 

physiological research. 

Table 1. Accessions provided to the National Seed Laboratory. 

Scientifc Name Common Name No. Accessions 

Aristida purpurea Purple threeawn 1 

Agoseris glauca Pale agoseris 2 

Astragalus eremiticus Hermit milkvetch 2 

Balsamorhiza sagittata Arrowleaf balsamroot 1 

Crepis acuminata Tapertip hawksbeard 1 

Eriogonum heracleoides Wyeth buckwheat 1 

Eriogonum umbellatum Sulfur buckwheat 5 

Lomatium dissectum Fernleaf biscuitroot 16 

Lomatium grayi Gray's biscuitroot 4 

Lomatium triternatum Nineleaf biscuitroot 4 

Penstemon acuminatus Sand penstemon 4 

Penstemon deustus Hotrock penstemon 11 

4. Forb increase at Lucky Peak Nursery (A. DeBolt): Pale agoseris (Agoseris glauca; 

Nevada), rock buckwheat (Eriogonum sphaerocephalum; Oregon), Douglas false-yarrow 

(Chaenactis douglasii; Idaho), and showy townsendia (Townsendia florifer; Idaho) were sown 

in test plots at LPN in fall 2006 to evaluate their establishment and potential for seed 

production. 

5. Native Germplasms (N. Shaw, A. DeBolt): Several germplasms from the earlier 

Greenstripping Program are to be released soon in cooperation with Steve Monsen: 

a. Mountain Home Sandberg bluegrass: In cooperation with Mountain Home Air Force 

Base personnel and volunteers, 11 pounds of seed were collected at the 100,000 acre 

Saylor Creek Bombing Range on May 25-26. G0 seed (6.5 pounds) was distributed to 

a grower for increase and the remainder was sent to UCIA for the Buy-back program. 

The release notice is being drafted. 

b. Eagle western yarrow: The release notice is being drafted. 

c. Orchard Thurber’s needlegrass: About 3.5 pounds of seed was collected southeast of 

Boise on June 6, 2006. G0 seed (2.5 pounds) was distributed to a grower for increase 

and the remainder was sent to UCIA for the Buy-back program. The release notice is 

being drafted. 

3
6. Enclosure maintenance (A. DeBolt): 

Boise State University: Control of rush skeletonweed has substantially reduced weed 

problems at this site. 

Lucky Peak Shrub Garden: Rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea) treatment is being 

continued in this 16-ha enclosure. Herbicide was spot-applied as needed on 

previously treated sites and an additional 1 ha was given initial treatment in 2006. 

Orovada: A 2-ha area was sprayed with Round-up in spring to prepare new areas for 

future common garden plantings. The existing exclosure fence was repaired to ensure 

livestock exclusion. 

Orchard: The enclosure fence was repaired by a BLM fire crew. Wildlife depredation 

(badgers, ground squirrels, jack rabbits) of plantings continues to be a problem. 

Wells: Expansion of the enclosure was delayed until funds are available. 

B. Restoration Ecology and Technology 

1. Reestablishing diverse native Wyoming big sagebrush communities: a comparison of 

seeding equipment and techniques (R. Cox, N. Shaw, M. Pellant, and NRCS and Elko 

District BLM cooperators) 

Table 1. Species seeded and rates, in 

PLS/m2

. 

To evaluate the capabilities of the Kemmerer 

rangeland drill and the Truax RoughRider drill to 

seed seeds of diverse sizes and shapes at appropriate 

depths to reestablish grasses, forbs, and shrubs on 

former Wyoming big sagebrush sites, study plots 

were established at two locations near Elko, Nevada 

in October 2006. Locations were selected on areas 

that had burned in 2006. One location was selected 

on the East Humboldt fire about 10 miles SW of 

Elko. The second location was selected on the 

Gopher fire, about 10 miles N of Deeth, NV, which is 

about 30 miles NE of Elko. 

Seeding Rate, 

At each location, 35 plots were established in 5 

blocks (7 plots per block). Two seeding rates of 

native species plus a control of no seed were drilled 

into the plots on Nov. 7-10, 2006. An untreated 

“double control” (no seed and no drill) was also kept 

to provide adequate comparison. Species and rates 

seeded are listed in Table 1. BLM Elko Field Office personnel were instrumental in all stages 

of this project, including planning, site selection, treatment application, and logistics. Tom 

Warren, Stan Kemmerer, Mark Coca, Brock Uhlig, Mike Mowray, and Kyle Blackburn were 

especially helpful. Seeding was done by personnel from the NRCS Plant Materials Center in 

Aberdeen, ID, including Brent Cornforth, Charlie Bair, and Boyd Simonson. The broadcast 

mix was seeded by allowing seed to fall on the soil surface in front of either the furrow-chain 

(Kemmerer drill) or the Brillion packer wheels (Truax drill). The drill mix was seeded 

PLS/m2

Species High Low 

Broadcast mix 

Wyoming big sagebrush 15.3 9.5 

Rubber rabbitbrush 17.3 10.2 

Eagle yarrow 171.1 105.9 

Sandberg bluegrass 194.6 114.2 

Rice hulls 

Total Broadcast 398.3 239.8 

Drill seeding mix 

Fourwing saltbush 5.1 3.6 

Blue flax 33.4 23.7 

Munro globemallow 41.2 29.8 

Bluebunch wheatgrass 94.8 67.7 

Bottlebrush squirreltail 8.2 5.9 

Indian ricegrass 54.8 39.1 

Rice hulls 

Total Drill 237.5 169.9 

Total Drill + Broadcast 635.8 409.6 

4
through the drill assembly. On December 19, 2006, autonomous weather stations were placed 

at each location to record rain, temperature, and soil moisture. Data collection will be in late 

spring/early summer, and include cover and frequency of all native and exotic species. 

 

2. Equipment and strategies to enhance the post-wildfire establishment and persistence 

of Great Basin native plants (R. Cox, N. Shaw, M. Pellant, R. Karrfalt, D. Pyke and NRCS, 

BLM and FS Lucky Peak Nursery cooperators) 

This study further investigates the capability of the Truax Rough Rider drill and the 

Kemmerer rangeland drill to reestablish Wyoming big sagebrush plant communities. The 

study will test seeding rates and methods for establishing Wyoming big sagebrush along with 

a mixture of other grasses, forbs, and shrubs and evaluate the physical placement of seeds in 

the soil by the two drills. Data collection will follow methods that are currently being 

recommended by the USGS for BLM use as standard techniques for ES&R monitoring, and 

data will be uploaded into a central ES&R monitoring database being developed by the USGS 

and will be permanently stored and available to land managers and researchers. In addition, 

the proposed study also facilitates analysis of long-term grazing effects on sagebrush seedings 

by establishing adjacent plots designed to allow grazing exclusion. 

We will also track the viability of sagebrush seeds through long-term storage. Seedlots 

harvested at locations across the Great Basin have been cleaned to two purity levels and will 

be stored at three different storage temperatures and two moisture contents in two types of 

bags. Viability and moisture content will be tested periodically over a 5-year storage period. 

Results will aid in determining appropriate storage conditions and duration for holding big 

sagebrush seed beyond the season of harvest. 

3. Requirements for dormancy break and germination in Lomatium dissectum seeds. 

(M. Scholten, M. Serpe, Boise State University, and N. Shaw) 

Seeds of Lomatium dissectum exhibit morphophysiological dormancy, common in the 

Apiaceae. We analyzed the effect of dry after-ripening, warm stratification, and cold 

stratification on embryo growth (Fig. 1a). Of these treatments, only cold stratification 

promoted embryo growth. During 12-weeks of cold stratification, the embryo length 

increased 6x with most growth occurring during the first 6 weeks. 

Cold stratification promoted germination (Figure1b), but germination was less than 20% 

when embryos reached full length after 8 or 10 weeks. Release from dormancy in most seeds 

required an additional 5 to 6 weeks of cold stratification. 

Embryo growth occurred at the three stratification temperatures tested (1, 6, and 11°C), but 

was greatest when stratification occurred at 6°C. After 14 weeks of stratification, there were 

significant differences in germination between seeds stratified at 1 and 6°C and those 

stratified at 11°C with little germination occurring at the highest temperature. Germination 

occurred when the seeds were under cold stratification at either 1 or 6°C and without transfer 

to warmer temperatures. Thus, in L. dissectum the temperatures that break seed dormancy are 

also adequate for germination. 

5
Cold Stratification (weeks)

4 6 8 10 12 14 16

Germination (%)

0

20

40

60

80

100

1a 1b 

 

Figure 1. (a) Effect of dry after-ripening, warm-moist conditions, and cold stratification on 

embryo growth of L. dissectum. (b) Effect of cold-moist stratification on germination of L. 

dissectum seeds. 

 

To analyze the effect of natural weather conditions on embryo growth and germination, we set 

an experiment in the field in mid November of 2005. Seeds in nylon mesh bags were placed 

in soil at a depth of 2 to 3 cm. Soil moisture sensors were placed near the seeds. Embryo 

growth and germination were promoted by soil temperatures between 0 and 10°C and soil 

moisture content above 5%. The temperatures and stratification conditions that promoted 

embryo growth and germination under field conditions were similar to those that were 

effective in the laboratory. Conditions associated with the release from dormancy in this 

species appear to be an adaptation to the climatic regime of the Great Basin to trigger 

germination in early spring. 

4. Does cheatgrass density limit the recruitment and growth of native forbs on Southern 

Idaho’s Snake River Plain? (H. Parkinson, C. Zabinski, Dept. of Land Resources and 

Environmental Sciences, Montana State University, and N. Shaw) 

Land managers require information on the biotic and abiotic factors that limit germination, 

survival and population establishment of native forbs. Understanding of phenology, growth 

and shoot and root morphology is needed to better understand how these species use resources 

in time and space. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to determine the relative growth 

rates of five forb species by harvesting them after 6, 9, and 12 weeks of growth, and to 

determine if forb response to a grass neighbor varied based on the identity of the grass 

neighbor. The five forbs were Eriogonum umbellatum, Lomatium sp., Machaeranthera 

canescens, Penstemon speciosus, and a Sphaeralcea munroana/grossulariifolia mixture (the 

Lomatium was misidentified as L. grayi and is possibly L. ambiguum; the Sphaeralcea was 

originally collected as S. munroana but turned out to be a mixture of both species). The 

native bunchgrasses included Poa secunda and Elymus elymoides, and the exotic annual,

Bromus tectorum. Machaeranthera canescens, P. speciosus, and Sphaeralcea spp. biomass 

was significantly reduced when grown with B. tectorum, but biomass of these species was not 

reduced when grown with either of the native grasses. 

6
While environmental conditions in the field are different than conditions in the greenhouse 

(particularly in regards to phenology and soil moisture), these results suggest that seeding 

these three forbs with either of the two commonly seeded native grasses may not cause 

adverse forb-grass interactions during the critical stage of seedling establishment. It also 

suggests that despite the larger biomass and faster growth rate of E. elymoides, this grass is 

not significantly different as a competitor than the much smaller native P. secunda. 

 

E. umbellatum biomass was similar when grown with P. secunda as when grown alone. 

Competition with E. elymoides or B. tectorum resulted in reduced E. umbellatum biomass. 

The biomass of the Lomatium species was 

significantly greater when grown alone than when 

grown with any of the grasses. As a taprooted 

species, it was postulated that its contrasting root 

morphology would limit negative forb-grass 

interactions. 

To assess the effects of cheatgrass competition on 

forbs, five forb species were seeded in single species plots with increasing 

cheatgrass densities at two locations in southern Idaho: Lucky Peak Nursery (915 m) and the 

Orchard Research Site (930 m), both within 20 miles of Boise, ID. The forbs are Achillea 

millefolium, Eriogonum umbellatum, Lomatium grayi, Penstemon speciosus and Sphaeralcea 

grossulariifolia. Bromus tectorum was seeded to create densities of 

45, 90, 180 and 360 plants/m

Lomatium Biomass by 

Neighbor, 3rd Harvest. 

2

. The plots are .9 x 1.5 m with forbs 

seeded in two rows of four for a total of 8 plants in each plot (see 

figure at right). 

This experiment is designed to identify the biomass of cheatgrass at 

which native forb seedling survival and growth is reduced and to 

determine if this varies by forb species. To determine how soil water 

content changes with increasing densities of cheatgrass, and if this 

effect varies based on the forb species, a neutron probe will be used 

to measure soil water content in the control plots (forbs only) and in 

the plots seeded at 180 and 360 cheatgrass plants/m2. Soil water content will be determined at 

depths from .2 - 1.2 m at 20 cm intervals beginning in early spring 2007 with measurements 

taken at 7-14 day intervals throughout the growing season.

7
5. Competitive dynamics among Siberian wheatgrass and native forbs and grasses (J. 

Muscha, M. Haferkamp, L. Vermeire, USDA ARS Fort Keogh LARRL, Miles City, MT, and 

N. Shaw) 

Members of the crested wheatgrass complex (Agropyron spp.) have been planted in extensive 

monocultures in the interior western United States for many decades. These non-native 

monocultures are susceptible to or currently invaded by exotic annual grasses and forbs. 

Approaches are being examined to incorporate native species into these sites to enhance stand 

diversity and structure, however the residual wheatgrasses may interfere with establishment of 

natives. We examined competitive interactions of native grass/forb mixtures with Siberian 

wheatgrass (Agropyron sibiricum). Native species were two forbs - Achillea millefolium

(ACMI) and Penstemon speciosus (PESP), and two grasses - Elymus elymoides (ELEL) and 

Poa secunda (POSE). Treatments were: 1) AGSI (1 plant); 2) AGSI (2); 3) AGSI (1), ELEL, 

ACMI, PESP; 4) AGSI (2), ELEL, ACMI, PESP; 5) ELEL, ACMI, PESP, 6) AGSI (1), 

POSE (2), ACMI, PESP; 7) AGCR (2), POSE (2), ACMI, PESP and 8) POSE (2), ACMI, 

PESP. Ten replicates of the treatments were grown in a greenhouse for 5 months. Greatest 

aboveground biomass was produced by AGSI (2 plants) (39.1 g), AGSI (1), ELEL, ACMI, 

PESP (37.4 g), and AGSI (1) (34.9 g). AGSI biomass was smaller when grown with any of 

the native plant combinations (24.7 g) than when grown alone (37.0 g). Biomass was twice as 

great for ELEL and nearly three times as great for POSE when grown without AGSI. Forb 

biomass was generally reduced by two AGSI (5.4 g vs 1.4 for ACMI, 0.9 g vs 0.6 g for 

PESP). Although competitive effects appear reciprocal, the impact on natives underscores the 

need to provide good wheatgrass control prior to seeding natives into these monocultures. The 

study will be repeated in 2007. 

Management Applications 

1. Documentation and description of the area of origin for Eagle yarrow, Mt. Home 

Sandberg bluegrass and Orchard Thurber’s needlegrass will guide managers in the 

appropriate use of these materials in southern Idaho and surrounding areas. 

2. Examination of variation in native forbs (Penstemon and Lomatium species and 

Eriogonum umbellatum) and bluebunch wheatgrass in relation to environmental gradients 

will aid in delineation of seed transfer zones for the lower Snake River Plain and northern 

Great Basin. 

3. Evaluation of competitive interactions among Siberian wheatgrass and native forbs and 

grasses will aid in selecting species and planting techniques for diversifying wheatgrass 

monocultures. 

4. Studies on the phenology, relative growth rate and root morphology of native forbs 

species will improve our understanding of how these species utilize resources in time and 

space. This will aid in designing seed mixes and seedings to enhance partitioning of 

limited resources and reduce negative forb-forb interactions. 

5. Establishment of diverse seed mixes requires new seeding equipment or modification of 

existing equipment. Ongoing research evaluates available drills and seeding rates for 

native species. 

6. Reestablishment of Wyoming big sagebrush has been problematic. We are examining 

seeding techniques for improving seed-soil contact. Research is also examining 

8
appropriate storage of sagebrush seed to permit carrying seed from time of harvest to 

seeding in the same or subsequent year. 

7. Post-fire spread of rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea) is primarily by root sprouting 

of existing plants; long distance spread is by seed. 

Products 

Publications: 

Chambers, J.C; McArthur, E.D.; Monsen, S.B.; Meyer, S.E.; Shaw, N.L.; Tausch, R.J.; Blank, 

R.R.; Bunting, S.; Miller, R.R.; Pellant, M.L.; Roundy, B.A.; Walker, S.C.; Whittaker, A. 

2005. Sagebrush steppe and pinyon-juniper ecosystems: effects of changing fire regimes, 

increased fuel loads, and invasive species. Fort Collins, CO: USDA FS Rocky Mountain 

Research Station. 66 p. Online: http://www.treesearch.fs.fed.us/pubs/23523 

Hild, A. L.; Muscha, J. M.; Shaw, N. L. [in press]. Emergence and growth of four winterfat 

accessions in the presence of the exotic annual cheatgrass. In: Sosebee, R.E., comp. 2005. 

Shrubland dynamics: fire and water: proceedings; 2004 August 10-12; Lubbock, TX. 

Proc. Fort Collins, CO: USDA FS Rocky Mountain Research Station. 

Kinter, C.L.; Shaw, N.L.; Hild, A.L.; Mealor, B.A. [in press]. Post-fire seed ecology of rush 

skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea L.) - assessment of invasion potential. Rangeland 

Ecology and Management. 

Presentations: 

DeBolt, A. 2006. Landscaping with native plants. University of Idaho Green Thumb MicroCollege, Boise, ID (two presentations). 

DeBolt, A. 2006. When ornamentals go bad. Idaho Rare Plant Conference Invasive Species 

Special Topics Session, Boise, ID. 

DeBolt, A.; Shaw, N.L. 2006. Progress in the development of native forbs for Great Basin 

restoration. Joint meeting of the Northwest Scientific Association and Idaho Wildlife 

Society, Boise, ID. 

Johnson, R.; Shaw, N. 2006. Provisional seed transfer zones for the Great Basin and 

Columbia River Plateau. National USFS and BLM Botanist and Geneticist Meeting, Las 

Vegas, NV. Also presented as a seminar at USDA R-9 Office, Milwaukee, WI. 

Shaw, N. 2006. Native plants for public rangelands - USA. Revegetation Technology and 

Equipment Council. Society for Range Management 59th Annual Meeting, Vancouver, 

British Columbia. 

Shaw, N. 2006. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project. 

a. Mojave Desert Native Plant Symposium and Workshop, Las Vegas, NV.

b. Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, Boise, ID. 

c. National USFS and BLM Botanist and Geneticist Meeting, Las Vegas, NV. 

d. Nevada Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation Meeting, Las Vegas, NV. 

Shaw, N. 2006. Two discussions: Planting at the appropriate season and native species being 

developed by Idaho RMRS scientists. Great Basin Research Center Training Session and 

Field Tour, Ephraim, UT. 

Shaw, N.L.; Gurr, J.; Scholten, D.L.; Scholten, M.D. 2006. Population structure and 

recruitment of winterfat as influenced by the presence of cheatgrass. 14th Wildland Shrub 

Symposium, Cedar City, UT. 

9
Technology Transfer 

Poster presentations (We thank Kerry Overton, Acting Program Leader, Boise Aquatic 

Sciences Laboratory, for presenting our posters at the Invasives Species meeting in 

Albuquerque, NM and the FS R4 Integrated Resources Workshop in Ogden, UT): 

Anon. 2006. Development of native forbs for the Great Basin. Society for Range Management 

59th Annual Meeting, Vancouver, British Columbia. (presented by Shaw at the Rangeland 

Technology and Equipment Council meeting and the SRM tradeshow). 

DeBolt, A.; Shaw, N.L. 2006. Progress in the development of native forbs for Great Basin 

restoration (poster/fact sheet). 

a. Invasive Species research in RMRS: Strengths, Needs, and Future Plans. 

Albuquerque, NM. 

b. USDA FS Region 4 Integrated Resources Workshop, Ogden, UT. 

c. Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, Boise, ID. 

Pellant, M.; Shaw, N. 2006. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project. 

Workshop on Collaborative Watershed Management and Research in the Great Basin, 

Reno, NV 

Scholten, M.; Shaw, N.L.; Serpe, M. 2006. Embryo growth and germination in L. dissectum

seeds (poster/fact sheet). 

a. Joint meeting of the Northwest Scientific Association and Idaho Wildlife 

Society, Boise, ID 

b. Invasive Species research in RMRS: Strengths, Needs, and Future Plans, 

 Albuquerque, NM. 

c. USDA FS Region 4 Integrated Resources Workshop, Ogden, UT. 

d. Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, Boise, ID. 

Scholten, M.; Zimmerman, S.; Shaw, N., Serpe, M. 2006. Requirements for embryo growth 

and dormancy break in Lomatium dissectum. Botanical Society of America, Chico, CA. 

Shaw, N.L.; DeBolt, A.; Jensen, S.; Meyer, T.; Vernon, J.; Pellant, M.; Lambert, S.; Boruff, 

C. and cooperating state foundation seed agencies. 2006. Cooperative native seed increase 

program. Society for Range Management 59th Annual Meeting, Vancouver, British 

Columbia (Rangeland Technology and Equipment Council Meeting and the SRM 

tradeshow). 

Shaw, N.L.; Pellant, M. 2006. The Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: 

plant materials for the Great Basin and surrounding areas (poster/fact sheet). 

a. Invasive Species research in RMRS: Strengths, Needs, and Future Plans, 

Albuquerque, NM. 

b. USDA FS Region 4 Integrated Resources Workshop, Ogden, UT. 

c. Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, Boise, ID. 

d. National USFS and BLM Botanist and Geneticist Meeting, Las Vegas, NV. 

e. Mojave Desert Native Plant Symposium and Workshop, Las Vegas, NV. 

Meetings, Committees and Field Tours – Planning and Participation: 

DeBolt: Participant on seed increase contract review team for Umatilla National Forest, 

Pendleton, OR. 

DeBolt: 0.5 day field tour in Boise area for UI field ecology class. 

DeBolt: Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station Field Day tour, Ontario, OR. 

10
Shaw: Planning committee for 2006 RTEC Annual Meeting: Seeding Equipment and 

Native Plant Materials in Canada and the US: New Approaches and Products, 

Vancouver, B.C. 

Shaw, DeBolt: GBNPSIP 2006 annual meeting, Salt Lake City. Planned meeting and gave 

reports. 

Shaw: Planning for GBNPSIP Symposium, SRM 2007, Reno, NV. 

Shaw: Organizer for sage-grouse habitat session for SERNW/SWS PNW annual meeting, 

September 2007, Yakima, WA and co-chair of poster sessions. 

Shaw: Planning committee, Native Wildflower Seed Production Research Symposium, July 

2007, Orlando, Florida. 

Shaw, DeBolt: Field evaluation of original Mountain Home Sandberg bluegrass collection 

area, the Saylor Creek Training Range, with Chief of Conservation, Mountain Home 

Air Force Base, and Steve Monsen. 

11
Project Title: Forb and Shrub Genetics Research

Project Location: USDA-FS Shrub Sciences Laboratory, Provo, UT 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

 Durant McArthur, Acting Program Manager

USDA-FS-RMRS Shrub Sciences Laboratory, 

735 N. 500 E. Provo, UT 84606-1865 

801.356.5112, Fax: 801.375.6968 

dmcarthur@fs.fed.us

Stewart Sanderson, Geneticist 

USDA-FS-RMRS Shrub Sciences Laboratory, 

735 N. 500 E. Provo, UT 84606-1865 

801.356.5111, Fax: 801.375.6968 

ssanderson@fs.fed.us 

Reporting for work funded, in part, by both the USDI Bureau of Land Management Native 

Plant Selection and Increase Project and USDA Forest Service National Fire Plan 

(Cooperators USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain, Pacific Northwest, and Pacific 

Southwest Research Stations; Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and Brigham Young 

University). 

Project description: 

This work is designed to determine the levels of genetic variation of plant species used or 

with potential for use in rehabilitation and restoration of fire impacted and other disturbed 

sagebrush steppe and pinyon-juniper ecosystems. Additional genetics work is also underway 

in delimiting seed transfer zones for restoration plant materials. The genetic variation 

research is designed to explore both within and between population variation by using 

isozyme and molecular genetic markers. It also explores the possible genetic consequences of 

past revegetation plantings by comparing the genetic architecture of source populations, 

seeded populations, and indigenous populations adjacent to the seeded populations. Work to 

date suggests that genetic patterns need to be assessed on a species by species basis and take 

into account pollination systems and population size. We briefly summarize the initial results 

from isozymes, DNA-based molecular genetics (AFLPs, ISSRs, RAPDs, cpDNA), 

revegetation plantings, gene flow, and seed transfer zones. 

Isozymes and DNA based molecular genetics: Over 30 species (6 shrubs, 3 grasses, and 26 

forbs) and more than 180 populations have been examined in a series of studies. These 

include Artemisia tridentata, Astragalus utahensis, Atriplex canescens, Balsamorhiza 

sagittata, Bromus carinatus, Castilleja miniata, Chrysothamnus nauseosus (Ericameria 

nauseosa), Crepis acuminata, Epilobium angustifolium (Chamerion angustifolium), Erigeron 

pumilus, Eriogonum umbellatum, Linum lewisii, Linum perenne, Lomatium dissectum, 

Lomatium grayi, Lupinus argenteus/sericeus, Penstemon deustus, Penstemon palmeri, 

Penstemon speciosus, Phlox longifolia, Sphaeralcea ambigua, Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia, 

Stipa comata, Vicia americana, and Viguiera multiflora (Heliomeris multiflora)]. 

12
Revegetation plantings gene flow: Several species are being examined in this portion of the 

study. Results for Linum, Sphaeralcea, Penstemon, Artemisia, Chrysothamnus, and Atriplex 

are available. The results are species specific. Many but not all of the studied seedings show 

that the seeded populations lie within the natural range of the indigenous genetic architecture. 

Linum perenne in the form of ‘Appar’ blue flax has been seeded widely in revegetation 

plantings. It has not hybridized with native L. lewisii nor is it likely to based on artificial 

hybridization experiments. 

The work of the above studies is progressing toward a summary status. The first significant 

output will be a Rocky Mountain Station General Technical Report summarizing all of the 

collection and research information. From that summary more detailed publications will be 

developed and submitted to peer reviewed outlets. The methods were reported in previous 

annual reports. 

Management applications: This information, when completed and fully evaluated, will be 

useful for managers when they need to make decisions about the appropriateness restoration 

seeding, e.g., will the seeding be appropriate in maintaining the natural variation and genetic 

integrity of the site under consideration. 

Publications: 

Miglia, K. J., E. D. McArthur, W. S. Moore, H. Wang, J. H. Graham, and D. C. Freeman. 

2005. Nine-year reciprocal transplant experiment in the gardens of the basin and mountain 

big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata: Asteraceae) hybrid zone of Salt Creek Canyon: the 

importance of multiple-year tracking of fitness. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 86: 

213-225. 

Thompson, T. W., B. A. Roundy, E. D. McArthur, B. D. Jessop, B. Waldron, and J. N. Davis. 

2006. Fire rehabilitation using native and introduced species: a landscape trial. Rangeland 

Ecology and Management 59: 237-248. 

Abstract: 

Garcia, S., T. Gamatje, S. C. Sanderson, E. D. McArthur, and J. Vallès. 2005. Genome size 

variation in the endemic sagebrush and their allies (Artemisia, Anthemideae, Asteraceae) of 

North America. Abstract P0644, XVII International Botanical Congress, Vienna, Austria. 

13
Project Title: Status of Work with Astragalus, Agoseris, 

 Lupinus, Phlox and Hesperostipa

Project Location: USDA-FS Shrub Sciences Laboratory, Provo, UT 

Principal Investigator and Contact Information: 

Scott Jensen, Botanist 

USDA-FS-RMRS Shrub Sciences Laboratory 

735 N. 500 E., Provo, UT 84606-1865 

801.356.5128, Fax: 801.375.6968 

sljensen@fs.fed.us 

Project Description: 

A core objective of the GBNPSIP is identifying and selecting plant material germplasm to 

meet the seed needs of rehabilitation and revegetation efforts in the Great Basin. At the outset 

of the GBNPSIP in 2001, staff at Provo selected species from several genera for germplasm 

evaluation. Wildland seed collections of Agoseris aurantiaca, A. glauca, A. grandiflora, A. 

heterophylla, Astragalus utahensis, Lupinus arbustus, L. argenteus, L. caudatus, L. 

polyphyllus, L. sericeus, Phlox longifolia, and Hesperostipa comata have accumulated since 

that time. Initial germplasm work focused on germination requirements, greenhouse 

propagation methods and seed related issues. In recent years, as our germplasm pool has 

increased, common gardens have been established to evaluate morphological and 

phenological attributes as well as site adaptation. Pilot studies evaluating increase plot 

establishment techniques have been a continual part of the program and cultural practice 

studies have been implemented to assess potential yields under cultivation. In all these 

efforts, we have had many failures and many successes. As these species have been observed 

in field settings it is apparent the crux of eventual success with many has less to do with 

selecting the best biotype and more to do with developing cultural techniques for economical 

production. Plants with the combined traits of irregular seed ripening and seed shatter are 

extremely costly to produce. To eventually see these species in the market will require 

specialized growing and harvesting practices. Thus, complementing our germplasm selection 

program is a growing effort in cultural practices. 

 

Project Status: 

2006 Seed Collections and New Site Locations: Typically, small quantities of seed are 

harvestable from a given site any particular year. Research needs often exceed the seed we 

have available for a given biotype, thus, where necessary, annual seed collections are made at 

known sites. Whenever new populations are found, we desire to represent these biotypes in 

the selection process. Continual efforts are made to record newly discovered populations. In 

2006, 78 new sites were recorded and seed collections were made at 88 sites. 

Equipment: To evaluate production methods, a subsurface drip tape layer and weed barrier 

layer were purchased. A 3-shank subsoiler was purchased to prepare the ground for the 

subsurface drip tape layer and fracture hardpans caused by years of cultivation. A small rock 

tumbler was purchased to evaluate its utility in scarifying seed. Metal working equipment 

14
was purchased to permit construction of two sprayers. Piped sprinkler systems were designed 

and bid for field sites at Fountain Green and Ephraim, UT. 

Plant Material Evaluation and Increase: Beginning in 2004, as plant material collections 

began to approximate the Great Basin distribution of individual species, common gardens 

were planted to evaluate biotypes. Prior to these plantings, and annually since, small scale 

seeding trials have been conducted to evaluate various planting methods and establish 

increase plots. The following summarizes those efforts. 

1. Fountain Green: 

Cultural Practice Studies: Cultural practice studies evaluating 3 mulch treatments and 3 plant 

spacings were installed using plugs of Agoseris and Lupinus. All plants went dormant shortly 

after transplanting. We anticipate low survival on this plot. 

Increase Plots - Project priority species:

Phlox longifolia – seeded in weed barrier 10/06. Efforts to increase this species through 

transplanting plugs have failed. 

Agoseris grandiflora - Plugs were installed with a tree transplanter. 

Increase Plots - Opportunistic collections: Comparative production plots were installed with 

Heliomeris multiflora. The comparison evaluates seeding rate, establishment, weeding effort 

and seed yield. A replicated plot was established with a precision drill, seeding 20, 40, 60 or 

80 pls seeds/linear foot with a pre-emergent herbicide banded between the seeded rows and 

powdered charcoal banded with the seed. Charcoal deactivates the chemical upon contact. 

The second plot was hand planted on weed barrier with a 2-foot spacing within and between 

rows. Both plots will be overhead irrigated through establishment, then subsurface irrigated 

with drip tape. 

2. Nephi, UT: 

Common Garden Establishment: 

Astragalus utahensis – 27 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus arbustus – 13 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus argenteus – 9 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus caudatus – 5 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus polyphyllus – 2 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus sericeus - 3 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Increase Plots: Agoseris glauca and Agoseris grandiflora - Plugs of each were transplanted 

into weed barrier fabric. 

Other studies: Astragalus utahensis fungal study field trials planted in cooperation with Dr. 

Brad Geary of BYU. 

3. Wells, NV: 

Common Garden Establishment: 

Hesperostipa comata – 60 biotypes direct seeded 11/ 06 

Lupinus arbustus – 14 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

15
Lupinus argenteus – 10 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus caudatus – 5 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus polyphyllus – 2 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

Lupinus sericeus - 3 biotypes transplanted 4/06 

4. Orovada, NV: 

Common Garden Establishment: 

Astragalus utahensis – 16 biotypes planted with a tree transplanter 4/06 

Hesperostipa comata – 60 biotypes direct seeded 11/06 

5. Snow College Farm: 

Common Garden Establishment: Hesperostipa comata – 60 biotypes direct seeded 11/06. 

Increase Plots: Four species of lupine (Lupinus argenteus - Nephi Canyon, UT; L. arbustus – 

Deep Creek, UT; L. polyphyllus - Tintic, UT; L. caudatus – Winnemucca Mountain, NV) 

were planted in increase plots. Seedbeds were prepared by sub-soiling, then installing 1 line 

of drip tape (T1508LR-15mil 8 OC low flow) 12 inches deep in the center of the bed. One 

inch of NutriMulch was spread over the bedding surface and incorporated to a depth of 4 

inches. Beds were then packed and flattened with a Brillion seeder and covered with 5’ x 

250’ woven weed barrier fabric. Three-inch holes spaced at 2-foot intervals within and 

between rows were burned into the fabric with an electric branding iron powered with a truck 

mounted power inverter. Where appropriate, seed was scarified by boiling water treatment 

and planted at 4-5 seeds/hole. 

Agoseris aurantiaca and A. glauca - Plugs were transplanted into fallow plots. 

6. Ely, NV: We anticipate a new 10-acre test site will be established near the Hwy 6/318 

Junction west of Ely, NV in 2007. The Ely BLM office is assisting with clearances and 

preparations. 

Products: 

Equipment: Weed control costs are a significant factor in the profitability of any native forb 

seed production operation. We designed and built two sprayers to evaluate their utility and 

effectiveness in weed control operations. The first is an ATV mounted hooded sprayer, the 

second a pre-emergent band sprayer. 

The ATV sprayer is designed around two streamlined 20” spray hoods attached to a 

telescoping frame. The telescoping frame allows the hoods to be appropriately positioned on 

both sides of a row crop. The contoured spray hoods slide under the canopy of taller plants 

and deliver herbicide to the ground to maintain a weed free area between planted rows. The 

hooded design is intended to prevent herbicide drift to the adjacent crop. This permits the use 

of herbicides that may be detrimental to the planted crop. The sprayer mounts on the front 

rack of an ATV and is supplied by a rear mounted ATV spray tank. 

The pre-emergent band sprayer is an attachment to a Hege 1000 series drill. The sprayer 

delivers adjustable width bands of pre-emergent herbicide between seeded rows. Liquefied 

16
charcoal is sprayed over the seeded row to deactivate herbicide that may drift. Additionally, 

powdered charcoal is delivered by a separate bulk seed box and banded with the seed to 

further mitigate against herbicide movement toward the seeded row.

Stock Seed: A Nevada source of Agoseris heterophylla was increased in our greenhouse to 

provide additional seed for future work. Approximately 15 grams of seed were produced on 

30 ft2

 of bench. This seed is currently being increased again with an anticipated production of 

2 lbs. 

Pilot trials for greenhouse increase of Agoseris grandiflora were conducted. 

Publications: 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Agoseris grandiflora. 

In: Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University 

of Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Agoseris aurantiaca. 

In: Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University 

of Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Agoseris glauca. In: 

Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University of 

Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of Agoseris heterophylla. In: 

Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University of 

Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Astragalus utahensis. 

In: Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University 

of Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Lupinus arbustus. In: 

Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University of 

Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Lupinus argenteus. 

In: Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University 

of Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Lupinus caudatus. In: 

Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University of 

Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Lupinus polyphyllus. 

In: Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow, ID: University 

of Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

17
Jensen, Scott L. 2007. Propagation protocol for production of container Lupinus sericeus. In: 

Native Plant Network. URL: http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow (ID): University of 

Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Forest Research Nursery. 

Jensen, Scott L., Stephen B. Monsen, and Pat Fosse. Spatial and Temporal Seed Dispersal of 

Squarrose Knapweed (Centaurea virgata Lam. spp. squarrosa (Willd.) Gugler) in West 

Central Utah, a Case Study. 14th Wildland Shrub Symposium – Shrublands Under Fire, June 

6-8, 2006 Cedar City, Utah. 

Technology Transfer: 

Presentations: 

Jensen, Scott. 2006. Status of plant materials development work for ten Great Basin species. 

GBNPSIP annual coordination meeting, Salt Lake City, UT. 

Jensen, Scott. 2006. The GBNPSIP: looking back and forward. Native Vegetation 

Restoration Workshop, Ephraim, UT. 

Posters: 

Whittaker, Alison; Jensen, Scott L. 2006. Effects of fire and restoration seeding on 

establishment of squarrose knapweed ( th Centaurea virgata var. squarrosa). 14 Wildland 

Shrub Symposium: Shrublands Under Fire: Disturbance and Recovery in a Changing World, 

Cedar City, UT. 

Tours: 

Jensen, Scott. 2006. Discussion of field plots. Native Vegetation Restoration Workshop, Ft. 

Green, UT. 

Attended a tour of Pacific Northwest Seed Growers. June 2006. 

18
Project Title: Native Plant Material Development and Seed and 

Seeding Technology for Native Great Basin Forbs and 

Grasses

Project Location: Great Basin Research Center, Ephraim, Utah. 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Jason Vernon, Program Manager 

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources/Great Basin Research 

Center, 494 West 100 South, Ephraim, UT 84627 

435.283.4441, FAX: 435.283.2034 

Therese Meyer, Wildlife Biologist 

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources/Great Basin Research 

Center, 494 West 100 South, Ephraim, UT 84627 

435.283.4441, FAX: 435.283.2034 

Alison Whittaker, Wildlife Biologist 

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources/Great Basin Research 

Center, 494 West 100 South, Ephraim, UT 84627 

435.283.4441, FAX: 435.283.2034 

 

Project Description: 

This project was organized for the collection, testing, selection and development of forb and 

grass species and/or ecotypes for habitat improvement in the Great Basin. A suite of species 

was chosen as desirable for restoration of degraded ecosystems throughout the area (Table 1). 

The species were chosen either for their usefulness as important food for wildlife or as 

diminished or missing constituents in the various ecosystems. 

Table 1. Species under study. 

Plant Family Plant Code Genus Species Common Name 

Apiaceae CYMOP Cymopterus sp. Spring-parsley 

Apiaceae LOGRGR 

Lomatium graveolens var. 

graveolens (syn: L. nuttallii) Stinking lomatium 

Apiaceae PEBO2 Perideridia bolanderi Yampah 

Asteraceae BAHO Balsamorhiza hookeri Hooker balsamroot 

Asteraceae BASA Balsamorhiza sagittata Arrowleaf balsamroot 

Asteraceae CRAC Crepis acuminata Tapertip hawksbeard 

Asteraceae CRIN Crepis intermedia Gray hawksbeard 

Capparaceae CLLU Cleome lutea Yellow beeplant 

19
Plant Family Plant Code Genus Species Common Name 

Fabaceae HEBO Hedysarum boreale Northern sweetvetch 

Fabaceae HEOC Hedysarum occidentale Western sweetvetch 

Malvaceae SPCO2 Sphaeralcea coccinea Scarlet globemallow 

Gooseberryleaf 

Malvaceae SPGR Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia globemallow 

Malvaceae SPPA Sphaeralcea parvifolia Nelson globemallow 

Poaceae ELCI Elymus cinereus (Leymus c.) Great Basin wildrye 

Poaceae POFE Poa fendleriana Muttongrass 

Poaceae POSE Poa secunda Sandberg bluegrass 

Poaceae STCO3 Stipa comata (Hesperostipa c) Needle-and-thread grass 

Polygonaceae EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium Cushion buckwheat 

Project Status: 

Seed Collection and Testing:

In 2006 the GBRC staff made 31 wildland seed collections of 13 species of forbs and grasses 

in Utah and Nevada (Table 1), totaling approximately 1,630 grams of cleaned seed. Wildland 

seed production in our seed collection area was very poor in summer 2006. This may have 

been a result of late freezing in much of our collection range. Remaining flowers then 

appeared to be heavily preyed upon by herbivores, both insect and large browsers. 

Seed cleaning, inventory, and database work was continued. The database now registers 904 

collections of 44 species of forbs and grasses. 

Germination tests continued in 2006. In-house germination experiments were completed on 

the following: CRAC/CRIN--33 accessions; EROV--19 accessions; BASA--38 accessions; 

Apiaceae including PEBO2--12 accessions; Sphaeralcea (SPGR, SPPA, SPCO2)--43 

accessions. 

More germination work on Sphaeralcea was done in 2006, specifically, applying the hotwater treatment suggested by Stan Kitchen, but with careful timing and temperature control. 

Again, boiling the seed gave lower germination percentages than merely planting the seed 

untreated (Fig. 1). Other treatments described in the literature (for instance: soaking seed for 

12 to 24 hours in water initially at boiling temperature, but removed from the heat source 

before the seed is added (Graham 2003)) will be tried next. Additionally, a study trial was 

initiated on the use of sulfuric acid to break down the dormancy of scarlet globemallow seed 

(Roth and others 1987). 

20
Globemallow Seed Pretreatment

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

SPCO2

B12-03

SPCO2

U6-02

SPGR

U15-03

SPPA

B10-03

Species, Accession No.

Percent Germination

Boiled

Boiled, dried

Not boiled

Figure 1. Globemallow seed germination following hot water 

treatments. 

Timing of planting: 

Experience with direct-seeding demonstrated that for some of the species we are studying 

(BASA, CRAC, PEBO2, and EROV), it is difficult to accumulate enough stratification to 

break seed dormancy when seeds are planted in early March. This agrees with our 

experiments with stratification on these species which show that they require 1-4 months of 

stratification to break seed dormancy. This means that in wildland plantings using these 

species, seeding may have to occur in fall. Sphaeralcea spp. and Hedysarum spp., however, 

do not require stratification and although they both might profit from some sort of heat 

treatment, scarification, or inoculation with beneficial organisms, it is possible to get some 

germination without these treatments. 

To better understand seed fate and the causes of stand failure in direct-seeded plantings, we 

initiated a seed retrieval experiment with six of our principal forb species: BASA, CRAC, 

EROV, PEBO2, HEBO, SPGR. We planted the study at Fountain Green in September 2006, 

with two subsequent retrievals. Retrievals will resume in the early spring. A second planting 

will be placed in March of 2007 and retrieved throughout the summer and fall. 

Results from the first two retrievals showed that the species have different responses to 

planting in fall. Results from the second retrieval are presented here (Fig. 2). EROV, SPGR 

and HEBO suffered the highest seed mortality at over 30%. BASA and CRAC seed suffered 

less than 15% mortality, and PEBO2 had almost no seed mortality. Some seed of two species, 

SPGR and HEBO, was hard and exhibited no apparent changes 2 months after planting. This 

seed was still hard, intact and had not imbibed water. HEBO had the greatest germination at 

21
23%. CRAC, BASA and EROV had between 7-10% germination, SPGR had only 1% 

germination, and the PEBO2 had no germination. 

The most interesting seed condition was the imbibed portion: these were seeds that were fully 

imbibed but which had not yet germinated. Presumably these seeds were undergoing 

stratification required to release the embryos from dormancy. The species with the highest 

percentage of fully imbibed seeds was PEBO2, which had 98% in this condition. This 

correlated well with previous germination studies demonstrating that PEBO2 required 

approximately 4 months of cold stratification to germinate. Both CRAC and BASA had about 

80% imbibed seed, SPGR and EROV had 45-55%, and HEBO had the smallest percentage 

imbibed at 16%. 

From these data, we predict that fall planting may not be advised for SPGR and HEBO 

because of high overwinter seed mortality. EROV is problematic, since fall planting results in 

fairly high seed mortality, but spring planting may not allow sufficient stratification to break 

seed dormancy. For this species, therefore, fall planting will probably be required, and land 

managers will have to accept some loss of viability over the winter. The other three species, 

PEBO2, BASA and CRAC probably require fall planting for the best outcome, specifically to 

overcome embryo or seed coat dormancy. 

The repeat of this experiment will be planted in spring 2007, as well as the remainder of the 

retrievals of this fall planted series, will further elucidate seed fate among these species. We 

also intend to install soil moisture and temperature monitors in this study to correlate the soil 

environment with the seed responses. 

Seed Retrieval: Sept 28-Nov 29

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

EROVSPGR

PEBO2

BASA

HEBOCRAC

Species

Seed Fate

%Dead Average

%Hardseed Average

%Imbibed Average

%Germ Average

Fig. 2. Fall seed retrieval (2 months of data).

22
Spacing and Weed Barrier Study: 

In May 2006 we installed a study at Fountain Green to evaluate two weed barrier mulches 

compared to bare ground, and also planted two of our study species’ plugs (CRAC and 

BASA) at various spacings in the weed barrier trials. The entire trial is under drip irrigation, 

with each species on a separate system. The treatments are in a Latin Square design with six 

replicates. This is a continuation of the work started by Brigham Young University at the 

Spanish Fork Farm, because that study did not include all of the species. The trial is still in the 

establishment phase, and we are experiencing problems with keeping the weed barriers in 

place. If necessary, we will re-install the weed barriers and replant the plugs. 

Field Trial Common Gardens: 

Direct-seed Planting: 

In order to expose the seed to sufficient stratification for germination, we direct seeded a large 

trial of most of the research forb accessions (all but Hedysarum) in November of 2005 using 

the Hege 1000 precision planter at the Fountain Green experimental farm. Each common 

garden had approximately 10 forb species, with a total of more than 110 accessions with each 

accession in five repeated blocks per garden. 

The 2005 spring-planted Wells trial was unsuccessful with the exception of a few Hedysarum 

plants. The 2005 spring-planted Fountain Green trial also failed: there was not enough cold, 

wet weather after the planting to successfully stratify the seed, so, of six species groups 

planted, only Hedysarum germinated well in the first year and I was able to get some trait data 

from the trial. The remainder of the trial was tilled up in July 2006. 

In the spring of 2006 some of the accessions in the 2005 fall planted trial in Fountain Green 

germinated, particularly in the BASA, CRAC/CRIN, and a few of the Perideridia lines. 

Overall the stands in the trials were poor and the weeds were out-competing, so the trials were 

tilled out in July 2006. 

Plug production for trials and seed increase: 

Greenhouse propagation for common gardens continued and several trials were planted: Plug 

seedlings were produced in the greenhouse for field trials of Sphaeralcea (12 accessions to 

Fountain Green), Eriogonum (25 accessions to be planted in spring 2007 at Fountain Green), 

Balsamorhiza (38 accessions to Wells and Orovada, Nevada), Crepis (57 accessions to Wells 

and Orovada, Nevada). A new greenhouse planting of all of our Sphaeralcea accessions is in 

production for late spring planting in a new, enlarged trial at Fountain Green. 

Scarlet globemallow seed of one accession that performed well in previous trials has been 

planted in the greenhouse to produce plugs to be planted at Snow Field Station to increase 

seed quantity. 

In a cooperative activity with the Forest Service Shrub Sciences Laboratory, 40 flats (~4,000 

plants) of Linum lewisii ‘Maple Grove’ were grown in Ephraim for a seed increase field 

23
planting in the Fountain Green exclosure. Insufficient isolation distance from other 

cooperator’s Linum plants preclude use of seed from this field for foundation seed at the 

present, but we expect that conflict to be resolved in 2007 or 2008. Alternatively, recent work 

by one of the cooperators (McArthur) suggesting that the two species of Linum do not 

introgress with each other, may allow us to use this seed in spite of the proximity. DWR will 

irrigate, weed, and harvest seed from the planting for other uses until such time as Forest 

Service determines that the seed is needed for foundation purposes. 

Two large trial plots of bluebunch wheatgrass using plug transplants produced by the ARS 

successfully established at the Wells, NV exclosure and at the Nephi Farm in March of 2005. 

Harvests in 2006 from these plantings (dry matter, seed production and fill, seed weights, and 

germination) are currently being evaluated in our laboratory. 

Products: 

Results Based on Common Gardens: 

Based on the existing forb common gardens, we have been able to gather enough trait data on 

Sphaeralcea, Eriogonum, Hedysarum and Perideridia to begin to narrow the fields on those 

species with regard to choosing up to four accessions per species to focus on with the goal of 

releasing them. Part of the selection process will involve using geographic, Ecoregion and 

Ecological Site Description information for those accessions. Not all of the ecological data 

has been gathered, but we are working with collaborators to obtain it and combine our maps. 

We have 2 years of field data on the Hedysarum trial in Fountain Green. The trial is spotty, 

but with five replicates we have been able to observe plant habit, flowering and fruiting. 

Based on this, we have focused on three accessions that have potential. A new Hedysarum 

trial will be planted by direct seeding this spring. More data on plant and seed production (in 

particular, seed shatter vs. seed retention) will be collected from the mature, 3-year old trial. 

The Ephraim common garden has yielded data on Sphaeralcea and Eriogonum. The Fountain 

Green common garden of Sphaeralcea is the largest trial we have of that species and has been 

very helpful in gaining information on plant habit, size, flowering and fruiting. In both of 

these trials, the most important information has thus far been to clarify the identity of all 

accessions Particularly with Sphaeralcea, determining species has been very confusing. 

Likewise for Eriogonum we have been able to determine species and observe, among the 

EROV accessions, which ones performed the best in terms of winter survival, growth and 

establishment, and flowering. The next trait to be evaluated will be seed production. EROV 

produces imperfect and perfect flowers on individual plants, starting with imperfect (either 

male or female functional) and later in the flowering cycle, perfect flowers. We wish to 

monitor this physiological function more closely to assure seed will be produced in sufficient 

quantity. 

The Perideridia and Lomatium trial in Ephraim is small, but we have been able to observe 

which accessions demonstrated the most robust growth and reached maturity most rapidly. 

24
Some of the accessions flowered in the second field season, and one of these robust 

accessions has been distributed to a grower for increase. 

The Crepis (CRAC/CRIN) trial in Ephraim, although spotty, began flowering in 2006. In 

both greenhouse production and field trials, CRIN (a species probably derived from a hybrid 

origin between CRAC and CROC [Crepis occidentalis] consistently showed more robust 

growth than CRAC, supporting the idea that this species has some fixed heterosis. The CRIN 

plants survived better than the CRAC plants, and many more accessions of CRIN flowered in 

the field than CRAC accessions. Although the temptation is to proceed with CRIN to the 

exclusion of CRAC, analysis of the native distribution of the species’ throughout Utah shows 

that CRAC is more common, and therefore is probably preferable to CRIN for our purposes. 

The trial will be continued, and more data will be obtained in the coming season. 

The BASA and CRAC/CRIN trials in Nevada will be evaluated throughout the spring and 

summer of 2007. We hope to obtain enough information from the Ephraim trial and the 

Nevada trials of CRAC and CRIN to choose one or two accessions to put into seed increase 

plots that will seeded in fall of 2007. 

BASA, of all of our lead species, shows the least progress in our program due to difficulty 

with establishment and slow maturity. Hopefully some headway with this species will be 

made in the Nevada common gardens. 

Seed Increase and Cooperator Studies: 

We distributed seed and/or seedlings/plugs to cooperators and other entities to be used for 

seed increase and research purposes: 

Janett Warner of Wildland Nursery in Joseph, UT: 360 CRAC seedlings/plugs for 

seed increase. 

Ann M. DeBolt, for a grower (Mustoe) in Oregon: seed of CRAC U36-04 for seed 

increase. 

Robert Fitts, Pleasant Grove: CRAC and BASA seedlings/plugs, 60 of each. PEBO2 

seed one accession, 0.8g for seed increase. 

Kevin Heaton, USU Extension, Panguitch: 1200 seedlings/plugs of CRAC and CRIN 

for seed increase. 

Robert Johnson, BYU: seed of BASA, CRIN, CRAC and PEBO2 for insect herbivory 

studies. 

Jeremy James, USAD-ARS Burns, OR: seed of LILE, SEMU2 and PEBO2 for a 

study on weed versus native competition. 

Tuan Beddes, USU, Logan, UT: seed of one Sphaeralcea accession for horticultural 

work. 

David Van Tassel (associate of Stan Kitchen, FS Shrub Lab): LILE seed for research. 

Clint Shock, OSU Malheur Exp. Station: SPGR seed, and 480 seedling plugs of 

CRAC for irrigation studies. 

25
Brad Geary, Brigham Young University (via Scott Jensen): CRAC, CRIN, BASA, 

and SPGR seed for fungal transfer studies. 

Corey Ransom, USU Department of Plants, Soils, and Biometeorology: CRAC seed 

for herbicide studies. 

Rhonda Pace, Brigham City, UT: We are currently growing SPGR and CRAC plugs 

for this gardener/farmer for seed increase for research. 

Publications, Presentations, Posters: 

Meyer, T. 2006. Presented progress on the forb work at the Annual Native Plant 

Summit meeting in Boise, ID. 

Meyer, T.; Vernon, J. 2006. Hosted a tour of the GBRC facility and discussed current 

research activities for the Utah Division of Wildlife Central Region, Ephraim, UT. 

Meyer, T. 2006. Selections and Increase of Native Plants for Rehabilitation of 

Disturbed Wildlands. Shrublands Under Fire: Disturbance and Recovery in a 

Changing World, Wildland Shrub Symposium, Cedar City, UT 

Meyer, T.; Vernon, J. 2006. Presentations and tour of GBRC facility for Utah State 

University, Agricultural Extension Agents, Ephraim, UT.

Meyer, T.; Vernon, J.; Whittaker, A. 2006. Presentations and tour of GBRC facility for 

Utah Partners in Conservation and Development/Great Basin Restoration Initiative 

meeting, Ephraim, UT. 

Meyer, T. Vernon, J.; Whittaker, A. 2006. Growing Native Seeds as a High-Value 

Agronomic Crop. Utah Agricultural Extension Alternative Agriculture Workshop, 

Cedar City, UT. 

Vernon, J.; Meyer, T.; Whittaker, A. 2006. Tour for Governor Huntsman’s Economic 

Team and Department of Natural Resources Director’s Office, Ephraim, UT. 

Vernon, J.; Meyer, T.; Whittaker, A., and other GBRC staff. 2006. Hosted the Plant 

Community Restoration Workshop, Ephraim, UT. 

Vernon, J.; Memmott, K. 2006. Species Selection, Remedial Plans, Utilizing High 

Quality Adapted and Ecologically Adapted Species. Plant Community Restoration 

Workshop, Ephraim, UT. 

Vernon, J. 2006. Provided research updates at the Tri-state Interagency Plant Materials 

Committee annual meeting, Elko, NV. 

Vernon, J. 2006. Site Preparation and Seeding. Plant Community Restoration 

Workshop, Ephraim, UT. 

Meyer, T.; Jensen, S. 2006. Update on Native Forb Development Program at GBRC. 

Plant Community Restoration Workshop, Ephraim, UT. 

Vernon, J.; Whittaker, A. 2006. Tour of GBRC facility and discussion of seed needs 

and uses. Plant Community Restoration Workshop, Ephraim, UT. 

Meyer, T. 2006. Great Basin Research Center (Utah Division of Wildlife Resources) 

26
Native Forb Development. Distributed on a CD to Plant Community Restoration 

Workshop attendees, Ephraim, UT. 

Meyer, T. 2006. Growing Native Seed as High-Value Agronomic Crop: Alternative 

Agriculture Meeting of the Panoramaland Resource Conservation and Development 

Council, USDA Service Center, Richfield, UT. 

Meyer, T. 2007. Simplified Dichotomous Key for Common Utah Globemallows. Utah 

Native Plant Society Newsletter, January 2007. 

Meyer, T.; Vernon, J. 2007. Attended Society for Range Management 60th Annual 

Meeting and Trade Show in Reno, NV. 

Meyer, T.; Vernon, J. 2007. Native Forb Development for Wildland Restoration: 

Research Update from the Great Basin Research Center. Society for Range 

Management 60th Annual Meeting and Trade Show, Reno, NV. 

Technology Transfer: 

a) April, June, and September 2006 and January 2007: Presented specific 

information to agency representatives about species we are developing and their 

potential use and applicability in habitat restoration projects. 

b) September 2006: T. Meyer and J. Vernon presented information and 

demonstrated restoration equipment in Fairview, Utah, for attendees at the Plant 

Community Restoration Workshop. 

c) November 2006: T. Meyer met with Bureau of Land Management representatives 

to discuss collaboration on native seed development, and to deliver native seed 

collections (58 kilos) that we had cleaned for them. 

d) January 2007: T. Meyer updated and revised .pdf handouts describing the need 

for native seeds in the Great Basin and the potential for private growers to produce 

the seed. 

e) January 2007: J. Vernon provided information and advice to Jan Anderson of the 

Utah Farm Bureau concerning native seed availability for the Great Basin and 

seed transfer zones for fourwing saltbush in the Mojave desert. 

f) February 2007: Sent out .pdf files of information for potential native seed growers 

to Jan Anderson of the Utah Farm Bureau. 

g) February 2007: T. Meyer sent out .pdf files of information for potential native 

seed growers to Erik Feiler in Boulder, Utah. 

Management Applications: 

a) Seed planting time protocols based on germination studies and seed retrieval 

studies will aid restoration biologists planning seedings to maximize the outcome 

of seed application. 

b) Seed planting time protocols will aid native seed growers in maximizing stand 

establishment. 

27
c) Weed barrier mulch and spacing studies will be important tools for native seed 

growers to reduce costs for weed control, and to maximize seed production 

through proper plant spacing. 

References: 

Graham, Jean. 2003. Propagation protocol for production of container Sphaeralcea ambigua

Gray plants (1 gallon PVC Pipe container); Joshua Tree National Monument Native Plant 

Nursery, Twentynine Palms, California. In: Native Plant Network. URL: 

http://www.nativeplantnetwork.org. Moscow (ID): University of Idaho, College of Natural 

Resources, Forest Research Nursery.

Roth, T. E., Holechek, J. L., Hussain, M. Y. 1987. Germination response of three 

globemallow species to chemical treatment. Journal of Range Management 40 (2): 173-175. 

28
Project Title: Genetic Diversity Patterns of Allium acuminatum 

 in the Great Basin 

Project Location: USDA-ARS Western Regional Plant Introduction Station 

(WRPIS), Pullman, WA 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information:

R.C. Johnson, Research Agronomist 

USDA-ARS, Western Regional Plant Introduction Station 

Box 646402, Washington State University 

Pullman, WA 99164 

509.335.3771, Fax: 509.335.6654 

rcjohnson@wsu.edu 

Barbara Hellier, Horticulture Crops Curator 

USDA-ARS, Western Regional Plant Introduction Station 

Box 646402, Washington State University 

Pullman, WA 99164 

509.335.3763, Fax: 509.335.6654 

bhellier@ wsu.edu 

Project Description: 

The conservation and utilization of native plant resources in the western United States is 

becoming increasingly important ecologically and economically, yet genetic information to 

identify locally adapted seed sources for restoration and reclamation is generally lacking. An 

understanding of the geographic and ecological distance that plant material should be 

transferred from original source populations is critically needed. Allium acuminatum Hook. 

(Taper-tip onion) is an important Great Basin forb associated with healthy rangeland and good 

habitat for sage-grouse. Studies using molecular markers and phenotypic traits are being 

conducted to determine genetic variation and seed transfer zones of A. acuminatum across the 

Great Basin. Genetic resource management strategies based on biological conservation 

principals will be developed leading to identification of candidate in-situ reserves (sites on 

federal lands where key populations are located). Populations maintained in-situ would 

provide conservation of genetic variation representing eco-geographic areas in the Great 

Basin. In addition, ex-situ conservation will be carried out at the USDA-ARS gene bank at 

Washington State University, Pullman, WA. Gene bank conservation will provide 1) readily 

available, source-identified genetic resources for research and increase and 2) security backup of in-situ sites. Overall, this project will provide information to federal agency policy 

makers, Plant Material Centers, and commercial collectors/producers to improve genetic 

quality and production efficiency of this species.

29
Objectives: 

1. Collect and maintain native Allium acuminatum (Taper-tip onion) for use in 

restoration and reclamation on western public lands. 

2. Link ecological-geographic variation with genetic variation of Allium acuminatum to 

identify key populations for conservation and to delineate seed transfer zones. 

3. Identify candidate in-situ sites for the conservation of Allium acuminatum genetic 

variation representing eco-geographic areas in the Great Basin. 

Project Status: In 2005, 55 populations of A. acuminatum were collected from eastern 

Oregon, southern Idaho and northeastern Nevada. In spring 2006, plants were established in 

common gardens located at Pullman and Central Ferry, Washington sites. Plants were 

evaluated for numerous phenotypic factors. Data analysis showed that plant attributes 

differed according to location and thus varied across the Great Basin. In addition, DNA was 

extracted from bulks of 20 plants for each collection site and a total of 167 SRAP (Sequence 

related amplified polymorphism) molecular markers were derived from 9 primer pairs. Using 

the STRUCTURE program, the molecular data distinguished five main groups. Although there 

was some overlap, differences among locations and geographic areas were found. Thus both 

the phenotypic and molecular data confirmed the existence of genetic variation for A. 

acuminatum across the Great Basin. This suggests that population differences should be 

considered when using this species for revegetation. In 2007, continued phenotypic 

evaluations will be completed in the common gardens and genecology studies similar to those 

outlined by Johnson et al. (2004) will be continued to determine seed transfer zones for A. 

acuminatum. 

Collections: In 2005, A. acuminatum bulbs were collected from 55 populations throughout 

eastern Oregon, southern Idaho and northeastern Nevada (Fig. 1). Potential population 

locations were gathered from herbaria records and US Forest Service and Bureau of Land 

Management personnel. This information was organized into a spreadsheet for field use and 

entered into a GIS-based map to aid in collection planning. We had two collecting teams of 

two persons each, one focused on Oregon and Idaho, the other team collected in Nevada. 

Each team followed the same collection protocol. First the population size and area were 

estimated. Then 40 to 50 bulbs per population were collected from across the given 

population. Only populations with 250 or more individuals were collected so in situ

population integrity was not compromised. Collections were made from June 17 to July 2, 

2005 and spanned 1430 m (4692 ft) of elevation and covered approximately 620 km (385 mi.) 

east-west and 445 km (277 mi.) north-south, between N 39° to 44° latitude and W 114o to 

119o longitude. Allium acuminatum was collected in 20 of the Level IV Omernick Ecoregions 

across the Great Basin. 

Common Gardens: Bulbs were planted in the greenhouse and vernalized at 4o

C. After plant 

emergence, leaf tissue was collected for DNA marker analysis. Plants were transplanted to 

the field in the spring of 2006. Common gardens were established at Pullman, WA (780 m 

elevation; 46° 43’ 28.05” N and 117 08’ 07.94”W) and Central Ferry, WA (206 m elevation; 

46° 41’ 52.78” N and 117° 39’ 52.55” W). Four plants from each of the 55 collection sites 

were randomized in five complete blocks at both locations. Thus there were 1,100 plants 

established at each site. In 2006, plants were evaluated for the factors in Table 1. For eight of 

30
the 11 factors there were significant location effects (Table 1). Differences in bolting, 

flowering, and seed maturity dates occurred along with differences in leaf number, and flower 

and umbel characteristics. This shows that A. acuminatum from different locations had 

developed at different rates and had different morphological attributes, and that it may be 

possible to model adaptation zones based on environmental data. There were also significant 

garden site by collection location interactions for bolting and seed maturity dates, and for 

flower color. 

Figure 1. Collection locations for Allium acuminatum in 2005 

representing 20 level IV Omernick ecoregions. 

This shows that for these traits, differences in where the plants were grown modified their 

development and flower color. The implication is that seed from one location planted in 

another will grow and develop differently then local material and as such may be ecologically 

unsuitable. 

The number of plots evaluated at the two sites (n in Table 1) varied widely as many plants 

senesced soon after transplanting to the field. In 2006, many plants showed active growth in 

the 4°C vernalization chamber and these often became dormant soon after transplanting. This 

is not expected in 2007 as bulbs are under natural field conditions. 

31
Molecular Markers: Using nine primer pairs and Sequence Related Amplified 

Polymorphisms (SRAP) (Li and Quiros, 2001), 167 unambiguous polymorphic markers were 

scored for each of the 55 A. acuminatum collections. The STRUCTURE program as described 

by Evanno et al. (2005) was used with the marker data to find five main A. acuminatum

groups for Great Basin germplasm. Although there was overlap, the groups tended to cluster 

in different geographic areas across the collection area. Thus, both the field evaluation and 

molecular markers showed differences among A. acuminatum populations from different 

collection locations. This means that continuing work to define seed zones is needed to 

ensure that properly adapted material is used for restoration. 

Table 1. Allium acuminatum ANOVA summary from common gardens at 

Pullman and Central Ferry, WA sites and 55 collection locations (2006). 

Prob. Prob. Prob. 

Factor n mean CV Site Loc Site X Loc 

Leaves/plant 467 2.17 19.5 <0.001 ns ns‡

Plants w/leaves 469 2.74 30.4 <0.001 <0.001 ns 

Bolting date† 248 113 4.0 <0.001 <0.001 0.003 

Scape length (mm) 230 99.8 28.8 ns <0.001 ns 

Scape dia. (mm) 231 1.71 28.4 ns ns ns 

Flowering date† 229 146 2.23 <0.001 <0.001 ns 

Flower color (1-8) 230 6.95 11.4 ns <0.001 0.008 

Flowers/umbel 227 15.6 38.6 0.012 0.020 ns 

Umbel dia.(mm) 227 37.1 25.6 0.023 ns ns 

Seeds/plant 170 15.7 70.9 0.001 ns ns 

Seed Maturity date† 183 174.8 6.72 <0.001 0.024 <0.001 

†Day of year; ‡ns, not significant; flower color from 1, white to 8, purple 

Future plans: In 2007, data collection will continue for leaf, scape, flower and umbel 

characteristics at the common gardens in Pullman and Central Ferry. Additional leaf 

characteristics will include leaf color, habit, length, and width. Phenotypic variation within 

and among populations will be determined and compared with molecular variation using 

multivariate statistics. This will show if and to what extent molecular and phenotypic 

evaluation data correlate. The phenotypic data will be analyzed to understand patterns of 

variation across the Great Basin in relation to climatic and ecological factors. This 

information will be used to establish adaptation zones and to guide conservation and 

revegetation decisions for A. acuminatum in the Great Basin. 

As this work is completed, informed decisions on seed transfer zones and population selection 

for potential in situ conservation/seed collection sites for A. acuminatum will be made. Then, 

32
as funding permits, work on seed production and stand establishment across the landscape 

will be pursued. For Allium there are two options for establishing field stands; sowing of true 

seed or dormant bulbs. Both methods are used in production of A. cepa, onion and A. 

sativum, garlic. The small size of A. acuminatum bulbs lends themselves to planting with 

conventional mechanical seeders. These two methods of stand establishment for A. 

acuminatum will be tested. Seeding rates and densities, weed control, methods for lifting 

bulbs from soil, and mechanical harvest will be examined. This will give the needed 

information on stand establishment and agronomic factors for seed production. 

Products: Plant germplasm appropriate for restoration of Great Basin environments is being 

developed and conserved. 

Publications: 

Adair, R., R.C. Johnson, B.C. Hellier, W. J. Kaiser. 2006. Collecting Taper-Tip Onion 

(Allium acuminatum Hook.) in the Great Basin using traditional and GIS methods. Native 

Plant Journal 7: 141-148. 

Technology Transfer: 

Presentations 2006 

 

March 28. Diversity of Allium acuminatum in the Great Basin. Robert Adair, R.C. Johnson, 

Barbara Hellier, and Walter Kaiser. Poster presented at the Intermountain Native Plant 

Summit IV, 28-30 March 2006, Boise ID. 

 

March 28. Interagency cooperation in collection, characterization, and storage of native plant 

germplasm. Mike Cashman, Tamra Putensen, R.C. Johnson, and Peggy Olwell. Poster 

presented at the Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, 28-30 March 2006, Boise ID. 

 

April 13. Invited speaker. R.C. Johnson. Agency Partnerships: Sound policy for native 

genetic resources, at the Joint USFS and BLM Botanist and Geneticist Meeting, Las Vegas, 

NV. 9-13 April 2006.

Management Applications:

This work on Taper-tip onion and other key Great Basin species is providing the research 

needed to develop adapted germplasm for restoration in the Great Basin. So far we have 

found clear differences in populations, suggesting important differences in adaptation across 

the Basin exist. In addition, long-term conservation and management of species needed for 

restoration are being maintained within the National Plant Germplasm System. This provides 

security back-up for native populations that may be lost. 

33
Other Activities: 

Genecology of Bluebunch Wheatgrass (Brad St. Clair, R.C. Johnson, and Nancy Shaw) 

Bluebunch wheatgrass [Pseudoroegneria spicata (Pursh) Á. Löve] is a cool-season, longlived, self-incompatible perennial bunchgrass of semi-arid regions of western North America. 

Many restoration projects using bluebunch wheatgrass rely upon the cultivars ‘Goldar’ and 

‘Whitmar’, and to a greater extent on the newly available germplasms, Anatone and P-7. 

Another cultivar, ‘Secar’, was originally misidentified and released as bluebunch wheatgrass, 

but is now recognized as a separate taxon, Snake River wheatgrass. The cultivars and 

germplasms have proven useful over a wide range of environments, with different cultivars or 

germplasms being better adapted to different areas. Goldar and Whitmar are better adapted to 

uplands and mesic sites, whereas Secar is better adapted to lower and drier areas. However, 

no research has examined genetic variation in relation to environment across the Great Basin 

and the greater range of bluebunch wheatgrass in a large set of diverse populations. 

Genecology, that is, understanding genetic variation in relation to environmental variation, is 

a critical consideration when choosing germplasm for restoration on diverse sites. 

In 2005, seed was collected from about eight western states including many locations in the 

Great Basin. In fall 2006, 127 diverse populations, each represented by two families, along 

with five cultivars, were established in common gardens at Pullman, WA, Central Ferry, WA, 

and at the USFS Lucky Peak Nursery northeast of Boise, ID. In-depth evaluation of these 

populations at each site for growth and development traits will be initiated in spring 2007. 

Results from this study will be used to develop guidelines and appropriate source material for 

revegetation and restoration in the northern Great Basin and adjacent areas.

Indian Ricegrass Common Gardens and Collections (Mike Cashman and R.C. Johnson) 

Indian ricegrass [Achnatherum hymenoides (Roem. & Schult.) Barkworth] is among the most 

important species in the Great Basin. Current releases of Indian ricegrass are useful but we 

know of none derived specifically from and for the Great Basin. Information on how 

populations vary across the landscape and which may be most appropriate for a given area is 

lacking. Considering the importance of Indian ricegrass in the Great Basin plant community, 

germplasm specifically adapted to Great Basin environments appears to be critically needed. 

Currently available at the Pullman gene bank are Indian ricegrass collections primarily from 

the eastern and southern regions of the Great Basin, extending into Colorado, Arizona, and 

New Mexico. In spring 2007, a diverse set of 120 populations of this material will be planted 

in a common garden at Central Ferry, WA for evaluation of key growth and developmental 

traits. Genecology studies to understand the variation in Indian ricegrass across a large area 

of the Western U.S. and to recommend germplasm best adapted for restoration will be 

conducted. Since additional material specific to the Great Basin is needed, additional 

collections are being made. These will form the basis of additional studies and will include 

families within collection locations to more fully assess genetic variation across the 

landscape. So far, 35 Indian ricegrass accessions have been collected and collection will 

continue in 2007. 

34
Sandberg bluegrass (unfunded)

Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda Presl.) is a dominant perennial on much of the steppe 

vegetation in the Great Basin, providing cover and forage for livestock and wildlife. Yet 

current germplasms and cultivars of the Sandberg bluegrass complex, including Mountain 

Home, Reliable, ‘Sherman’ big bluegrass (Poa ampla Merr.), and ‘Canbar’ (P. canbyi

Scribn.) were collected either on the fringe or completely out of the Great Basin. Material 

collected within the Great Basin proper may be better adapted and more suitable. Considering 

the importance of Sandberg bluegrass in the Great Basin plant community, source identified 

germplasm for the Great Basin is critically needed. 

Collections of Sandberg bluegrass from diverse sites and ecological areas in the Great Basin 

were initiated in 2006 and will be continued in 2007. So far 29 populations have been 

collected, including families within collection locations. This material will be used to 

establish common garden studies in contrasting environments and measure numerous traits 

associated with growth and development. That data will be used to identify seed transfer 

zones along with complementary in situ conservation sites. Seed of adapted material will be 

available through the USDA-ARS Pullman gene bank. 

Publications: 

Adair, R., R.C. Johnson, B.C. Hellier, and W. J. Kaiser. 2006. Collecting taper-tip onion 

(Allium acuminatum Hook.) in the Great Basin using traditional and GIS methods. Native 

Plants Journal 7: 141-148. 

Literature Cited 

Evanno, G., S. Regnaut, and J. Goudet. 2005. Detecting the number of clusters of individuals 

using the software STRUCTURE: a simulation study. Molecular Ecology. 14: 2611-2620. 

Johnson, G.R., F.C. Sorensen, J.B. St. Clair, and R.C. Cronn. 2004. Pacific Northwest seed 

zones: A template for native plants? Native Plants Journal 5: 131-140. 

Li, G. and C.F. Quiros. 2001. Sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP), a new 

marker system based on a simple PCR reaction: its application to mapping and gene tagging 

in Brassica. Theor. Appl. Genet. 103: 455-461. 

35
 

Table 2. Expected timeline from collection to seed production for species needed for Great Basin restoration and under 

study at the Germplasm Testing and Research Unit, Pullman WA 

Adapted 

populations 

identified† 

Collection 

completed 

Genecology 

completed 

Initial Initial Seed 

Species seed increase production 

Allium acuminatum 2005 2007 2008 2009 2010 

(Taper-tip onion) 

Achnatherum

hymenoides 

(Indian ricegrass) 

2005; additional 

completed 2007 

1st study in 

2008; 2nd study 

in 2009 

2008 for 1st study; 

2010 for 2nd study 

2009, 1st study 2010, 1st study 

2011, 2nd study 2012, 2nd

study 

Pseudoroegneria

spicata (Bluebunch 

wheatgrass) 

2005 2008 2009 2010 2011 

Others of interest (Unfunded)

Poa secunda 2007 2010 2011 2012 2013 

(Sandberg 

bluegrass) 

Leymus cinereus

(Great Basin 

wildrye) 

2008 Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage 

Lupinus sp. Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage 

Achillea 

millefolium 

Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage Planning stage 

(Yarrow) 

†Including potential in situ sites 

36
Project Title: - Establishment and Maintenance of Certified 

 Generation 1 (G1) Seed 

 - Propagation of Native Forbs 

 - Plant Display Nursery Evaluation 

 - Development of Technology to Improve the 

 Diversity of Introduced Grass Stands 

Project Location: USDA NRCS Aberdeen, ID Plant Materials Center 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Loren St. John, Center Manager

Aberdeen Plant Materials Center 

P.O. Box 296, Aberdeen, ID 83210 

208.397.4133, Fax: 208.397.3104 

Loren.Stjohn@id.usda.gov 

 Dan Ogle, Plant Materials Specialist 

USDA-NRCS, 9173 West Barnes Drive, Suite C 

Boise, ID 83709 

208.685.6987, Fax: 208.378.5735 

Dan.Ogle@id.usda.gov 

 

Project Description: 

Production of Certified Generation 1 (G1) seed of Maple Grove Germplasm Lewis flax, 

Anatone Germplasm bluebunch wheatgrass, Snake River Plains Germplasm fourwing 

saltbush, and Northern Cold Desert Germplasm winterfat to facilitate commercial seed 

production. Propagation of native forbs for evaluation and seed increase. Evaluation of 

display nursery near Boise, ID. Development of technology to improve the diversity of 

introduced grass stands by evaluating methods to introduce native species into established 

plant communities. 

Project Status: 

Seed Production: Maple Grove Germplasm Lewis flax: A new seed field (3.2 acres) was 

planted on May 24, 2006. The seed field established in 2005 (also 3.2 acres in size) was 

contaminated with ‘Appar’ blue flax so harvested seed could not be certified. This field is 

now being used to conduct herbicide tolerance trials in cooperation with the University of 

Idaho. The new field established in 2006 was also contaminated with Appar. It appears that 

the stock seed to plant both fields was contaminated with Appar. Approximately two-thirds 

of the new field was plowed out and the remaining plants will be rouged carefully to remove 

Appar plants. Seventy pounds of Certified seed was shipped to commercial growers in 2006.

Anatone Germplasm bluebunch wheatgrass: Currently 5.2 acres are in production. Estimated 

seed yield from the 2006 seed crop is 1,090 pounds. Three hundred fifty pounds of Certified 

seed was shipped to commercial growers in 2006. 

37
Snake River Plains Germplasm fourwing saltbush: Estimated seed yield from the 2006 crop 

is 20 pounds. No seed was requested by commercial growers in 2006. 

Northern Cold Desert Germplasm winterfat: Estimated seed yield from 2006 crop is 11 

pounds. We shipped 5 pounds of Certified seed to commercial growers in 2006. 

Propagation Studies: The original project plan in 2005 was to propagate 8,000 plants total of 

Lomatium dissectum (LODI) fernleaf biscuitroot, Lomatium grayi (LOGR) Grays biscuitroot, 

Lomatium triternatum (LOTR) nineleaf biscuitroot, Eriogonum umbellatum (ERUM) 

sulphurflower buckwheat, Penstemon deustus (PEDE) hotrock penstemon, Penstemon 

acuminatus (PEAC) sharpleaf penstemon, and Penstemon speciosus (PESP) sagebrush 

penstemon in the greenhouse. Approximately 1000 plants each of ERUM and LOTR were to 

be transplanted at the Plant Materials Center (PMC) and the remaining plants were to be made 

available to cooperators for transplanting at field sites. Due to no plant establishment of 

Lomatium species and minimal success with greenhouse propagation of Penstemon species, 

no plants were made available to cooperators. All plants that were successfully propagated in 

the PMC greenhouse were transplanted at the PMC during the 2005 growing season and 

direct dormant seeding of Eriogonum, Lomatium and Penstemon accessions was completed at 

the PMC in November 2005. Weed barrier fabric was installed to control weeds.

On June 13, 2006 and October 27, 2006 the plants that were direct-seeded the preceding fall 

were evaluated for survival (see table). 

 6/13/06 10/27/06 10/27/06 

 Survival Survival Plant Height Clean seed 

Species (percent) (percent) (cm) (grams)

ERUM 40 40 10-15 31.8 

LODI 25 dormant 

LOGR 65 dormant 

LOTR 70 dormant 

PEAC 60 68 20-25 1362.0 

PEDE 50 58 20-25 1180.0 

PESP 60 60 10-20 0.0 

The evaluation conducted in June was an estimate of survival and the October evaluation was 

an actual plant count. By early July, the Lomatium plants had gone completely dormant. There 

was no sign of green-up this fall, so survival of these plants is unknown and will be evaluated 

in the spring of 2007. Seed was harvested and cleaned from ERUM, PEAC and PESP. 

38
Orchard Display Nursery Evaluation Summary 

Introduction 

The Orchard Display Nursery was planted on November 16, 2004 in cooperation with the 

Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project. The nursery contains 82 accessions 

of 27 native and introduced grass, forb and shrub species. Each accession was planted in 7 X 

60 foot plots. See Tilley et al. (2005) for descriptions of the species and accessions planted. 

The remaining area was planted to a cover crop mix of 50% Anatone bluebunch wheatgrass, 

20% Bannock thickspike wheatgrass, 20% Magnar basin wildrye and 10% Snake River Plains 

fourwing saltbush. The test site is located on a loamy 10-12 inch precipitation ecological site 

that historically supported a Wyoming big sagebrush/ bluebunch wheatgrass/Thurber’s 

needlegrass plant community. Total precipitation at the Orchard Test Site for water year 2005 

was 9.6 inches, and total accumulated precipitation for water year 2006 was 14.4 inches 

(USDA 2006). 

The 

Burea

u of 

Land 

Mana

geme

nt 

(BLM

) 

burne

d the 

site in 

the fall of 2002. The site was sprayed by the PMC staff in May 2003 and May 2004 with a 

Roundup and 2, 4-D herbicide mix to create a weed free seedbed. Due to limited breakdown 

of dead grass clumps that would inhibit proper seed placement with a drill and to ensure a 

clean seedbed, the decision was made to cultivate the site with a culti-packer just prior to 

seeding. Plots were evaluated for initial establishment on April 27 and May 5, 2005. During 

the first evaluation most plots contained high numbers of Russian thistle (Salsola sp.) and 

moderate amounts of bur buttercup (Ranunculus testiculatus Crantz) plants. Russian thistle 

plants were approximately 2 to 3 inches tall and bur buttercup had already flowered. At the 

time of the second evaluation, there was a heavy infestation of tumblemustard (Sisymbrium

altissimum L.). Plots were consequently sprayed again on June 9, 2005 with 16 oz. 2, 4-D and 

8 oz. Clarity per acre to control the mustard. 

Monthly precipitation at Orchard Range Test Site

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

3

3.5

Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

Precip. (in)

WY 2005

WY 2006

Materials and Methods

The first evaluation of the plots was conducted on April 27, 2005 using a frequency grid 

based on that described by Vogel and Masters (2001). The grid measured approximately 40 x 

41 inches, having four 10-inch columns (to incorporate 1 drill row per column) and five rows, 

giving a total of 20 cells. The first grid was laid on the rows approximately two grid lengths 

(80 inches) into the plot. Counts were made of the cells that contained at least one plant. Grids 

were subsequently flipped and evaluated three more times giving a total of 80 evaluated cells. 

39
Total area for one grid is approximately 1 m2. Total area evaluated is therefore approximately 

4 m2. A conservative estimate of plant density (plants/m2) is the total number of cells 

containing at least one plant divided by four. The second evaluation of 2005 occurred on May 

25, 2005. The 2006 evaluation was conducted on May 30 using the methods describe above, 

except that the frame was evaluated five times for a total of 100 cells or 5 m2. Total counts 

were then divided by five for approximate plants/m2. Numbers for approximate plants/m2 

2 were divided by 10.8 to calculate approximate plants/ft . It is important to note that because 

cells with plants were counted and not the number of plants per cell, the best possible score is 

100 hits per five frames which converts to 20 plants/m2

 or 1.85 plants/ft2. Actual plant density 

may be higher than the numbers indicated below. All tables have been arranged with 

accessions ranked from highest plant density to the lowest at the time of the second evaluation 

in 2005. Data were not analyzed for significance. 

Native Grasses 

There were forty-seven accessions of native grasses planted. Overall the native grasses 

established well considering the limited amount of precipitation received over the winter and 

early spring of 2005. Especially good stands were seen in the bluebunch wheatgrass and 

Snake River wheatgrass plots during 2005. There was a marked decrease in plant density 

between the first and second evaluations with some notable exceptions. Seven of nine 

bluebunch wheatgrass accessions and three of four Snake River wheatgrass accessions 

increased in density from the first evaluation to the second. This is possibly due to 2.5 inches 

of precipitation during that period and/or from a lack of pressure by black grass bugs (Labops

sp.). Most of the native grasses decreased in density from 2005 to 2006 with the exception of 

Covar sheep fescue and all of the Sandberg bluegrass accessions. These may have been plants 

that germinated late in the first growing season or, more likely, were too small to notice under 

the heavy growth of mustards and were more easily observed in 2006. 

In 2005 the best performing Indian ricegrass accession was White River, with a plant density 

of 0.56 plants/ft2

 during the first evaluation and 0.17 plants/ft2 during the second evaluation. 

By 2006 there were no plants of any Indian ricegrass accession observed in the evaluation 

grids and very few seen within their respective plots. In 2006, all squirreltail accessions had 

decreased in density. Fish Creek maintained the best plant density with 0.26 plants/ft2

. 

Bannock thickspike wheatgrass had a density of 1.04 plants/ft2

 and increased slightly to 1.07 

plants/ft2

 at the second evaluation. In 2006 Bannock had dropped to nearly half of the original 

density to 0.58 plants/ft2. Revenue and San Luis slender wheatgrass both had 0 plants/ft2 in 

2006. Pryor slender wheatgrass similarly dropped in density but had 0.02 plants/ft2. The 

western wheatgrass accessions had less dramatic declines in density from 2005 to 2006, but 

still showed poor stands with Rodan having the highest density of 0.13 plants/ft2

. 

The bluebunch wheatgrass accessions had the highest average densities of all the native 

grasses. All decreased slightly in density from 2005 to 2006, but still maintained good stands. 

P-12, Wahluke and Jim Creek all had densities over 1.00 plants/ft2. Columbia, Anatone, P-7 

and P-15 had densities between 0.50 and 1.00 plants/ft2 while P-5 and Goldar both had low 

densities. The three Snake River wheatgrass accessions dropped to just over 0.50 plants/ft2

. 

The basin wildrye accession densities also decreased; U108-02 and Trailhead retained the 

highest densities at 0.24 and 0.26 plants/ft2 respectively. Sheep fescue stands remained poor 

from 2005 to 2006 with Covar slightly increasing from 0.00 to 0.07 plants/ft2. Thurber’s 

40
needlegrass had no plants in the evaluated grids. All five of the Sandberg bluegrass accessions 

increased in density from 2005 to 2006. The best stands were observed in the High Plains and 

Mountain Home plots with respective stands of 0.54 and 0.35 plants/ft2. 

ORCHARD DEMONSTRATION AREA 4/27/05 5/25/05 5/30/06 

Native Grass Species Name or accession Plants/ft2 Plants/ft2 Plants/ft2 

Indian ricegrass Rimrock 0.37 0.20 0.00 

White River 0.56 0.17 0.00 

Nezpar 0.42 0.17 0.00 

Ribstone 0.14 0.09 0.00 

Paloma 0.05 0.00 0.00 

Squirreltail Fish Creek 0.97 0.54 0.26 

Shaniko Plateau 0.81 0.52 0.06 

Sand Hollow 0.37 0.20 0.19 

Toe Jam Creek 0.58 0.17 0.00 

9019219 0.02 0.02 0.00 

Thickspike wheatgrass Bannock 1.04 1.07 0.58 

Critana 0.90 0.56 0.24 

Schwendimar 0.69 0.52 0.39 

Sodar 0.37 0.30 0.15 

Slender wheatgrass Revenue 1.00 0.93 0.00 

San Luis 0.60 0.69 0.00 

Pryor 0.30 0.30 0.02 

Western wheatgrass Rodan 0.28 0.35 0.13 

Rosana 0.05 0.20 0.04 

Arriba 0.16 0.15 0.06 

Bluebunch wheatgrass P-12 1.34 1.59 1.04 

Wahluke 0.97 1.26 1.02 

Columbia 1.30 1.23 0.84 

P-7 0.93 1.15 0.67 

Anatone 0.81 1.15 0.80 

Jim Creek 0.83 1.02 1.02 

P-15 0.60 0.93 0.54 

P-5 0.42 0.61 0.22 

Goldar 0.51 0.37 0.33 

Snake River wheatgrass Expedition 1.27 1.44 0.54 

Secar 1.00 1.11 0.76 

SERDP 1.02 0.94 0.67 

E-26 0.21 0.23 0.22 

Basin wildrye U108-02 0.56 0.57 0.24 

Trailhead 0.60 0.52 0.26 

U100-01 0.53 0.41 0.11 

U70-01 0.30 0.22 0.02 

Magnar 0.28 0.22 0.04 

Washoe 0.21 0.09 0.09 

Sheep fescue Initial Point 0.21 0.04 0.02 

Covar 0.16 0.00 0.07 

Thurber’s needlegrass Thurber’s 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Sandberg bluegrass High Plains 0.25 0.00 0.54 

Sherman 0.00 0.00 0.02 

Mountain Home 0.00 0.00 0.35 

Toole County, MT 0.00 0.00 0.04 

Hanford Source 0.00 0.00 0.19 

41
Introduced Grasses 

Although many of the introduced grass accessions had fair emergence, we noted an outbreak 

of black grass bugs at the time of the first evaluation in 2005. The infestation appeared limited 

to the introduced grass section of the nursery. Plants were covered with yellow spots making 

them appear yellow-green overall. Although most of the stands of the introduced grasses 

decreased from the first to the second evaluation, many stands had recovered and increased by 

2006 indicating that many plants thought to be dead during the second evaluation in 2005 

were still alive. However, the plants in the crested wheatgrass plots were very small when 

compared to the other wheatgrass accessions in the nursery and still appear to be recovering 

from black grass bug pressure. 

In 2006 all of the crested wheatgrass accessions increased in density or remained 

approximately where they were in 2005. Ephraim rose from 0.28 to 1.23 plants/ft2; however, 

many of the plants were small in size due to the 2005 black grass bug infestation. Both 

Siberian wheatgrass accessions similarly increased from 2005 to 2006, but the three pubescent 

wheatgrass accessions decreased with the highest density in 2006 coming from Manska at 

0.28 plants/ft2

. Rush intermediate wheatgrass, along with Prairieland and Eejay Altai wildrye 

had zero plants in 2006. Pearl Altai wildrye had 0.02 plants/ft2. The Russian wildrye 

accessions all increased in density with the exception of Tetracan, which decreased slightly. 

The best stand was recorded in the Bozoisky Select plot with 0.58 plants/ft2. 

ORCHARD DEMONSTRATION AREA 4/27/05 5/25/05 5/30/06 

Introduced Grass Species Name or accession Plants/ft2 Plants/ft2 Plants/ft2 

Crested wheatgrass Nordan 1.30 1.19 1.10 

Ephraim 0.65 0.28 1.23 

Hycrest 0.39 0.24 0.15 

CD-II 0.56 0.24 0.20 

Roadcrest 1.30 0.07 0.52 

Douglas 0.28 0.04 0.09 

Siberian wheatgrass Vavilov 0.65 0.20 0.61 

P-27 0.09 0.02 0.33 

Pubescent wheatgrass Manska 0.69 0.65 0.28 

Greenleaf 0.60 0.59 0.15 

Luna 0.79 0.54 0.13 

Intermediate wheatgrass Rush 0.60 0.56 0.00 

Altai wildrye Prairieland 0.56 0.39 0.00 

Eejay 0.16 0.28 0.00 

Pearl 0.35 0.15 0.02 

Russian wildrye Bozoisky Select 0.72 0.54 0.58 

Mankota 0.46 0.28 0.32 

Tetracan 0.42 0.20 0.17 

Syn-A (Bozoisky II) 0.21 0.13 0.24 

Forbs and Shrubs 

Despite some good stands in 2005, all of the forb and shrub accessions except for Eagle 

yarrow had zero plants during the 2006 evaluation. Eagle had 0.07 plants/ft2

 in the frequency 

grids along with a small stand of plants at one end of the seeded plot. 

42
ORCHARD DEMONSTRATION AREA 4/27/05 5/25/05 5/30/06 

Forb and Shrub Species Name or accession Plants/ft2 Plants/ft2 Plants/ft2 

Western yarrow Eagle 0.51 0.50 0.07 

Great Northern 0.19 0.09 0.00 

Utah sweetvetch Timp 0.14 0.02 0.00 

Firecracker penstemon Richfield Selection 0.02 0.02 0.00 

Scarlet globemallow 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Lewis flax Maple Grove 0.42 0.15 0.00 

Blue flax Appar 0.90 0.26 0.00 

Wyoming big sagebrush 0.02 0.02 0.00 

Fourwing saltbush Snake River Plains 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Wytana 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Rincon 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Gardner’s saltbush 9016134 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Winterfat Hatch 0.28 0.17 0.00 

Northern Cold Desert 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Open Range 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Forage kochia Immigrant 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Cover Crop 

The cover crop consisted of a four species mix which contained: 50% Anatone bluebunch 

wheatgrass, 20% Bannock thickspike wheatgrass, 20% Magnar basin wildrye and 10% Snake 

River Plains fourwing saltbush. Four grids were examined during the first evaluation in 2005, 

one on each side of the nursery, and five grids were evaluated at the time of the second 

evaluation in 2005 and the 2006 evaluation. Total plant density was estimated at 0.37 

plants/ft2 at the first evaluation and 0.57 plants/ft2 at the second evaluation. In 2006 the cover 

crop density was 0.13 plants/ft2

. 

Discussion 

Despite large amounts of Russian thistle, native and introduced grasses had fair to good 

emergence and plant density during the establishment year. Germination and emergence 

might have been increased with more precipitation during March and April, 2005 but 

emergence was good with the rain that was received. The majority of the plots showed 

decreased stands from 2005 to 2006. The low precipitation at the site, especially the lack of 

moisture in July and August of 2005, seems to have eliminated many of the less drought 

tolerant accessions. One concern is the effect of black grass bugs on the introduced grasses. 

Plants subjected to black grass bug are normally affected by decreased seed yield and a 

reduction in palatability. Infestations rarely result in the death of established plants, but in low 

water years establishing plants may be under enough stress to kill the establishing seedlings 

(Hammon and Peairs 2001). The second evaluation in 2005 indicated a loss in plant densities; 

however it appears that many of the plants survived, although stunted, through 2006. Future 

evaluations will provide more information on plant establishment, persistence and longevity. 

The PMC staff will continue to evaluate plant performance at the site. 

Publications: 

Hammon, R.W. and F.B. Peairs. 2001. Black grass bugs. Colorado State University 

Cooperative Extension. No. 5.575. 

43
[USDA NRCS] USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2005. National Water and 

Climate Center. http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/snotel/. Accessed 20 October 2006. 

Tilley, D.J., D.G. Ogle, and L. St. John. 2005. NRCS Aberdeen Plant Materials Center 

Display Nursery, Orchard, Idaho. Plant Materials Center, Aberdeen, ID. 10 January 2005. 10 

p. 

Vogel, K.P. and R.A. Masters. 2001. Frequency grid - a simple tool for measuring grassland 

establishment. Journal of Range Management 54: 653-655. 

Develop Technology to Improve the Diversity of Introduced Grass Stands 

The PMC assisted Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo, UT and the Agricultural 

Research Service (ARS), Burns, OR in developing technology to improve the diversity of 

introduced grass stands by evaluating methods to introduce native species into established 

introduced plant communities. In 2005 the PMC modified a Truax Rough Rider range drill, 

mixed the seed and rice hull mixtures and completed the first year of seedings at the sites in 

Utah and Oregon. 

In 2006 modified seed drop boots by the manufacturer were installed on the Truax drill. The 

Utah sites (Skull Valley and Lookout Pass) were seeded the week of October 24 and the 

Oregon site (Burns) was seeded the week of October 31, 2006. Twelve and a half acres were 

seeded at each location. In addition to these seedings, the PMC also seeded drill comparison 

trials (approximately 30 acres total) at two locations near Elko, NV during the week of 

November 6, 2006 on recently burned rangeland to compare the Truax drill to the Kemmerer 

drill, a standard range drill used by BLM. While seeding these projects, the PMC technicians 

met with Jim Truax (drill manufacturer) to demonstrate the modifications to the drill under 

field conditions. 

The Truax drill is designed to both broadcast and drill seed in the same pass so species that 

require broadcasting or very shallow planting depth were broadcast and the deeper seeded 

species were drill seeded in alternating rows. The following table lists the seed and rice hull 

mixtures: 

Utah Broadcast Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Wyoming big sagebrush 0.20 0.94 

Rubber rabbitbrush 0.25 0.75 

Eagle yarrow 0.20 0.24 

“OR” Sandberg bluegrass 0.75 0.95 

Rice hulls 7.41 

44
Utah Drill Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Fourwing saltbush 1.00 3.48 

Appar blue flax 0.75 0.83 

Munro globemallow 0.50 0.84 

Anatone bluebunch wheatgrass 3.00 3.16 

Sanpete bottlebrush squirreltail 2.00 2.82 

Nezpar Indian ricegrass 2.00 2.13 

Rice hulls 4.58 

Oregon Broadcast Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Wyoming big sagebrush 0.20 1.33 

Rubber rabbitbrush 0.25 2.06 

Eagle yarrow 0.20 0.26 

Mtn. Home Sandberg bluegrass 0.75 1.18 

Rice Hulls 4.90 

Oregon Drill Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Fourwing saltbush 1.00 2.28 

Appar blue flax 0.75 1.00 

Munro globemallow 0.50 0.61 

Anatone bluebunch wheatgrass 3.00 3.52 

Toe Jam bottlebrush squirreltail 2.00 2.17 

Nezpar Indian ricegrass 2.00 2.08 

Rice hulls 4.74 

Drill Comparison Broadcast Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Wyoming big sagebrush 0.20 1.33 

Rubber rabbitbrush 0.25 0.65 

Eagle yarrow 0.20 0.21 

Mtn. Home Sandberg bluegrass 0.75 0.91 

Rice hulls 7.01 

45
Comparison Drill Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Fourwing saltbush 0.69 1.15 

Appar blue flax 0.65 0.75 

Munro globemallow 0.50 0.59 

Anatone bluebunch wheatgrass 3.00 3.54 

Bottlebrush squirreltail 1.90 2.06 

Nezpar Indian ricegrass 2.00 2.13 

Rice hulls 5.05 

The drill comparison trials were seeded at rates of 75 and 125 percent of the rates listed in the 

table above in order to be able to compare effectiveness of the two drills. 

Cover crop mixes were also prepared and seeded at the drill comparison trial sites to provide 

perennial cover around the plots. Approximately 8 acres of cover crop were seeded at each 

site and the mixes are listed below: 

East Humboldt Cover Drill Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre bulk seed/acre

Hycrest crested wheatgrass 2.50 2.78 

Bozoisky Russian wildrye 1.50 1.83 

Vavilov Siberian wheatgrass 3.00 3.24 

Rice hulls 6.11 

Gopher Fire Cover Drill Mix 

 Pounds Pounds 

Species PLS/acre Bulk Seed/acre

Ladak alfalfa 0.50 0.54 

Hycrest crested wheatgrass 1.00 1.11 

Bozoisky Russian wildrye 1.00 1.22 

Rimrock Indian ricegrass 1.50 1.55 

Secar Snake River wheatgrass 2.00 2.51 

Bannock thickspike wheatgrass 2.00 2.44 

Rice hulls 5.37 

The drill comparison trial will be repeated in fall of 2007. Location of the trial will be 

determined based on areas that burn during the 2007 fire season in the northern Great Basin. 

46
Project Title: Native Plant Genetics, Ecophysiology, Plant Materials 

Development, and Seed Increase 

Project Location: USDA-ARS Forage and Range Research Laboratory, Logan, UT 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Tom Jones, Research Geneticist

USDA-ARS, Forage and Range Research Laboratory 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-6300 

435.797.3082, Fax: 435.797.3075 

tomjones@cc.usu.edu 

Steve Larson, Research Geneticist 

USDA-ARS, Forage and Range Research Laboratory 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-6300 

435.797.1703, Fax: 435.797.3075 

stlarson@cc.usu.edu 

Mike Peel, Research Geneticist 

USDA-ARS, Forage and Range Research Laboratory 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-6300 

435.797.3288, Fax: 435.797.3075 

mpeel@cc.usu.edu 

Tom Monaco, Research Ecologist 

USDA-ARS, Forage and Range Research Laboratory 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-6300 

435.797.7231, Fax: 435.797.3075 

tmonaco@cc.usu.edu 

Doug Johnson, Research Plant Physiologist 

USDA-ARS, Forage and Range Research Laboratory 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-6300 

435.797.3067, Fax 435.797.3075 

daj@cc.usu.edu 

Project Description: 

Jones' funding was designated for seed increase of pending germplasm releases, germplasm 

development, and needle-and-thread germplasm collection. Johnson’s funding was designated 

for collection and evaluation of basalt milkvetch. Peel’s funding was designated for 

development of improved germplasms of globemallows, particularly Sphaeralcea 

grossulariifolia and S. munroana. Larson’s funding was designated for genetic (DNA) 

analysis of bluebunch wheatgrass, Leymus wildryes, squirreltail, Indian ricegrass, and Utah 

47
sweetvetch. These funds partially covered the costs of research itemized in this report with 

remaining costs covered by ARS funds. 

Project Status: 

North American Grasses 

• Rattlesnake Germplasm bottlebrush squirreltail (E. elymoides ssp. elymoides), 

developed from material collected in Elmore Co., ID, was approved for release and is 

awaiting signatures. A seed-increase block was established. (Jones) 

• Cycles of selection were completed for populations of diploid bluebunch wheatgrass 

(4), tetraploid bluebunch wheatgrass (2), and thickspike wheatgrass (2). (Jones) 

• Selection blocks were established for populations of bottlebrush squirreltail (E. 

elymoides ssp. californicus) (1), Snake River x thickspike wheatgrass (1), diploid 

bluebunch wheatgrass (1), tetraploid bluebunch wheatgrass (1), and a Snake River x 

(thickspike x slender) wheatgrass hybrid (1), basin x beardless wildrye (1), and salina 

wildrye (1). (Jones) 

• An evaluation of nine bluebunch wheatgrass populations from the Owhyee Plateau 

indicated that T-1561 (SW Marsing, ID) has the greatest potential. 

• Greenhouse and field trials of 36 accessions of bottlebrush squirreltail ssp. brevifolius 

race C from Idaho and Oregon allowed evaluation of seedling traits and mature-plant 

phenology. (Jones) 

• A seed-increase block of E-21 Snake River wheatgrass was established to prepare for 

possible release. (Jones) 

• An evaluation of 42 accessions of needle-and-thread from southern Idaho and 

northeastern Oregon was established at Cornish Farm. (Jones) 

• An evaluation of 15 accessions of Thurber’s needlegrass from southwestern Idaho and 

southeastern Oregon was established at Blue Creek Farm. (Jones) 

• A nursery of Festuca idahoensis X F. roemeri hybrids was established to evaluate 

pollen fertility to clarify the taxonomic relationship between these two taxa. (Jones 

and Larson) 

• Data analysis of squirreltail taxa evaluated under a precipitation gradient in a rainout 

shelter has been completed, and a manuscript is being prepared. Data collection of a 

similar study for bluebunch wheatgrass was also completed. In 2006, the squirreltail 

data sets were statistically analyzed and a manuscript first draft was written. New data 

were generated by analyzing leaf N and leaf C:N ratio, and these data were compared 

to biomass production and carbon isotope discrimination in squirreltail taxa. A second 

manuscript was started that focuses on leaf-level gas exchange (photosynthesis) of 

both perennial grasses. (Monaco, Jones, Johnson). 

Basalt Milkvetch (Astragalus filipes) 

• Six rhizobial strains isolated by the Nitragin Company were tested in two greenhouse 

studies for their effectiveness at nitrogen fixation with six different collections of 

basalt milkvetch. The six rhizobial strains were compared with no-nitrogen and 

nitrogen treatments to identify the rhizobial strain resulting in the greatest nitrogen 

fixation, plant growth, and nitrogen pools. Rhizobial strain I-49 was the best strain and 

48
will be used by the Nitragin Company to produce a commercial rhizobial inoculant for 

basalt milkvetch. (Johnson) 

• Plants of 67 accessions of basalt milkvetch were evaluated in common garden studies 

at Evans Farm and Millville in northern Utah for their morphological characteristics, 

plant vigor, forage yield and quality, seed yield, and regrowth after defoliation during 

the summer of 2006. Data from 2005 and 2006 were statistically analyzed, and two 

manuscripts are being prepared. (Johnson) 

• Kishor Bhattarai, an M.S. student at Utah State University, is being supported from 

funds on this project. He is preparing his thesis from the basalt milkvetch research 

and is planning to defend his thesis during spring 2007. (Johnson) 

• Transplants of the top-performing basalt milkvetch accessions were planted at Hyde 

Park in northern Utah in spring 2006 and will be used in the development of a selected 

class pre-variety germplasm of basalt milkvetch. (Johnson) 

• DNA was extracted for informative AFLP DNA primer pairs in North American 

collections of basalt milkvetch. These data will be used to obtain estimates of genetic 

diversity for 1,200 AFLP markers. (Johnson) 

• Collaborations are continuing with Jim Cane at the USDA-ARS Bee Biology and 

Systematics Lab at Logan to study pollination and seed predation in basalt milkvetch. 

(Johnson) 

• A GIS data extraction tool with 11 data layers was constructed, and a web-based 

version was made available through Utah State University’s GIS and Remote Sensing 

Laboratory website to characterize collection sites in the lower 48 states. This tool 

will allow collection sites across the U.S. to be characterized for annual precipitation, 

annual minimum and maximum temperatures, ecoregion levels, topographic 

characters, soils features, and land ownership. This tool could be used as a basis for 

delineating seed zones for rangeland plant species. (Johnson) 

Genetic Diversity Analyses 

• In cooperation with Mike Peel and Shaun Bushman, we prepared and submitted a 

manuscript describing DNA variation within and between 21 Hedysarum boreale

accessions (384 plants), including two accessions from the USFS Shrub Sciences 

Laboratory and 10 accessions from the UDWR Great Basin Research Center. We 

acknowledged the financial support of the U.S. Department of the Interior-Bureau of 

Land Management Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project, the U.S. 

Department of Agriculture-Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, the Utah 

Division of Wildlife Resources – Pittman / Robertson Big Game Habitat Restoration 

Project W-82-R, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture –Agricultural Research 

Service. (Larson) 

• Supported a research assistantship for Utah State University graduate student 

Catherine Mae Culumber, who analyzed chloroplast psbA-trnH intergenic spacer 

sequences, chloroplast trnK-rps16 intergenic spacer sequences, and nuclear 18S-5.8S26S ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences for 335 Leymus

wildrye accessions including 304 North American accessions (nine species) and 31 

Eurasian accessions (nine species). The Leymus germplasm included 55 GBRC 

collections, four Berta Youtie collections, and 61 new FRRL wildland seed collections 

from 2004. Results of this genetic diversity study are described in her M.S. thesis, 

49
which will be defended and submitted for publication in the spring 2007. Mae also 

helped collect Lepidium montanum herbarium specimens and DNA samples from 30 

collection sites (ID, NV, OR, UT, and WY), which provided crucial reference 

specimens used for genetic diversity studies of Lepidium papilliferum and L. 

montanum. Although, the Lepidium work was primarily funded by ARS, we intend to 

acknowledge U.S. Department of the Interior-Bureau of Land Management Great 

Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project in the Leymus and Lepidium reports. 

(Larson) 

• Supported research assistantship for Utah State University graduate student Parminder 

Kaur, who is genetically mapping genes and comparing gene expression profiles 

related to adaptive trait variation (growth habit) in North American Leymus wildryes. 

Parminder also began testing 1,800 PCR primer pairs flanking simple-sequence 

repeats (SSR) detected in a library of 28,632 expressed gene sequence tags (ESTs) of 

Leymus. (Larson) 

Globemallows (Sphaeralcea spp.)

• In spring 2006, progenies of 21 half-sib families of S. munroana were established at 

Utah State University’s Blue Creek Research Farm. This material will be evaluated 

during the 2007 growing season for growth habit, leaf type, persistence, vigor and 

particularly seed production. (Peel) 

• It is expected that desirable plant types from this cycle of selection will be used to 

generate seed for testing and eventual germplasm release. (Peel) 

• Following evaluation of S. coccinea in 2006, 18 lines were selected for further 

characterization. It was the intent to start this material in the greenhouse during the 

2006/2007 winter for transplanting to the field in spring 2007. However, serious seed 

quality issues and a very small number of plants have been successfully started. (Peel) 

• It is anticipated that seed from the S. coccinea material will be harvested again in 2007 

and a second attempt will be made the following year at successful establishment. 

(Peel) 

Products: 

Four M.S. and two Ph.D. students have been supported in part through project funds. 

The release of Rattlesnake Germplasm bottlebrush squirreltail makes seed of this competitive 

early-seral species from the Lower Snake River Plain available for the first time. 

Submitted chloroplast psbA-trnH intergenic spacer sequences, chloroplast trnK-rps16

intergenic spacer sequences, and nuclear 18S-5.8S-26S ribosomal DNA internal transcribed 

spacer (ITS) sequences for 335 Leymus wildrye accessions including 304 North American 

accessions (nine species) and 31 Eurasian accessions (nine species). These materials included 

55 GBRC collections, four Berta Youtie collections, and 61 new FRRL wildland seed 

collections from 2004. 

Management Applications: 

Collections of bottlebrush squirreltail, Indian ricegrass, bluebunch wheatgrass, thickspike 

wheatgrass, Snake River wheatgrass, salina wildrye, needle-and thread, Idaho fescue, and 

50
Roemer’s fescue were made and are being evaluated in this project. Data collected in these 

evaluation studies will form the basis for identifying the most promising collections of these 

species for eventual germplasm releases for use in revegetation and restoration efforts on 

rangelands of the western U.S. Releases of these species will allow land managers greater 

flexibility in meeting plant materials needs for western rangelands. 

Globemallow and basalt milkvetch are species that are drought and heat tolerant, winterhardy, 

and survive well in semiarid environments. When included in seed mixtures with adapted 

grasses, plants of these species will be of value in stabilizing degraded rangelands, 

revegetating disturbed areas, and beautifying roadsides. These native forb species may be 

used where introduced species are not desired. Their attractive foliage and flowers make them 

excellent choices for use in wildflower seed mixtures. 

The molecular genetics information generated from this project will be used to genetically 

characterize collections of important Great Basin plant species. These molecular data will 

allow identification of optimal germplasm releases to most effectively represent existing 

genetic variation in key plant species. Molecular data will also be useful in identifying 

specific gene sequences associated with growth habit, seed-shattering, seed dormancy and 

other functionally important traits related to seed production, plant establishment, plant 

adaptation, forage quality, and other conservation uses. These SSR and other EST DNA 

markers will provide a valuable new resource for breeding and genetic diversity studies of 

North American Leymus wildryes used in rangeland revegetation, agriculture, and other 

conservation uses. 

Squirreltail and bluebunch wheatgrass populations were previously delineated based on 

morphological and genetic characteristics. Our studies showcase the functional importance of 

variation in drought response between these populations. Populations capable of maintaining 

favorable water balance, photosynthesis, and productivity under low water availability may 

have an advantage when competing with invasive annual grasses in late spring, when soil 

resources typically become limiting within the Great Basin. 

Publications: 

Bushman, S.B., S.R. Larson, M.D. Peel, and M.E. Pfrender. 2007. Population structure and 

genetic diversity in North American Hedysarum boreale. Nutt. Crop Science (in press). 

Jones, T.A., and T.A. Monaco. 2007. A restoration practitioner’s guide to the Restoration 

Gene Pool Concept. Ecol. Restor. 25: 12-19. 

Jones, T.A., M.G. Redinbaugh, Y. Zhang, S.R. Larson, and B.D. Dow. 2007. Polymorphic 

Indian ricegrass populations result from overlapping waves of migration. W. North Amer. 

Nat. 67: (accepted 9/7/06). 

Larson, S.R., X. Wu, T.A. Jones, K.B. Jensen, N.J. Chatterton, B.L. Waldron, J.G. Robins, 

S.B. Bushman, and A.J. Palazzo. Growth habit, height, and flowering QTLs reveal footprints 

of speciation between North American Leymus wildryes. Crop Science. (submitted). 

51
Technology Transfer: 

A presentation was made by Tom Jones at the Red Brome Symposium in April 2006 (Gilbert, 

AZ). 

A presentation was made by Tom Jones at the Grass Breeders’ Conference in July 2006 

(Ames, IA). 

Poster abstract was presented at Plant and Animal Genome XV Meetings, January, 13-17, 

2007. Kaur, P., I. W. Mott, S. Bushman, S.R. Larson. Comparison of gene expression in 

Leymus tiller and rhizome meristems using heterologous Affymetrix wheat and barley gene 

chips. 

Presentations were made by Tom Jones and Doug Johnson at the GBNPSIP Symposium at the 

2007 SRM Annual Meeting in February 2007 (Reno, NV).

52
Project Title: Agronomic and Cultural Care of Wildland Plants, 

 and Seed Yield Losses in Forbs (Asteraceae) Due 

 to Fruit Flies (Tephritidae) 

 

Project Location: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Val Anderson 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.3527, Fax: 801.422.0090 

val_anderson@byu.edu 

Robert Johnson 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.3311, Fax: 801.422.0090 

robert_johnson@byu.edu 

Bruce Roundy 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.8137, Fax: 801.422.0090 

bruce_roundy@byu.edu 

Project Description: 

Four projects were carried out in 2006. 

1. Seeding depth studies: The seeding depth study is designed to determine optimal 

planting depth. This greenhouse study compares planting depths at 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 

and 0 inches in a clay-loam and sandy soil. 

2. Spacing and production methodology development: This project investigates the 

effect of within row spacing at 6, 12, and 18 inches on seed production as well as the 

influence of mulch. Mulch treatments include weed fabric, paper, plastic, and bare 

ground. 

3. Manipulations of wild bitterbrush and sagebrush stands: Another way to increase seed 

production is to manage wildland stands of important species. This study investigates 

methodologies to increase seed production in wildland stands of bitterbrush and 

Wyoming big sage. A combination of treatments was applied including: removal of 

competing vegetation, fertilization, and pruning. The long-term effect of beating 

versus hand stripping was also examined. 

4. Seed yield losses due to tephritid fruit flies in Asteraceae: Understanding the extent of 

seed yield losses by seed predators in wild forb populations will help predict the 

53
potential seed loss of native forbs under cultivation. This project looks at seed loss 

occurring in four yellow composite species at three different sites, the insect 

composition of flower visitors, and the effect of spraying the pesticide imidachloprid 

for controlling seed predation. 

1. Seeding Depth 

Project Status: A new set of species was provided by the U.S. Forest Service Shrub 

Sciences Laboratory. Four species were planted in a replicated block design in two soil 

types, watered, and cold stratified for six weeks. Those species were Crepis intermedia, 

Crepis acuminata, Balsamorhiza sagittata, and Perideridia bolanderi. Soil types were 

clay-loam, and sand. We hope to replicate this study in 2006. 

2. Spacing and Production Methodology 

Project Status: Evaluations of Sphaeralcea were completed in 2005. Sphaeralcea 

coccinea died out over the winter so production data were collected on S. grossulariifolia 

and S. munroana. The condition of the remaining two species was generally fair to poor, 

indicating a possible short-lived perennial status for Sphaeralcea on heavy soils. A rust 

fungus was prevalent throughout the population and where the plant crown produced 

abundant stems the previous year, 2006 stem production was severely reduced. In 2005, 

a single harvest was employed cutting the stems with a harvester and air-drying the plant 

material on tarps before threshing. Yields were significantly reduced over the previous 

year, an effect of lower production but also an artifact of different harvest techniques. 

Seed was hand harvested the previous year over an extended period maximizing seed 

capture. The single machine harvest completed at mid seed ripening missed some early 

shatter and was premature for some plants. The machine harvest does, however, fit into a 

more realistic yield model for large-scale agricultural production. 

Where spacing was 

significant the first 

season, it no longer 

displayed significance 

in 2006 (Fig.1). This 

was in part due to the 

fact that the 6 inchspaced plants had 

higher mortality, 

equalizing the spacing 

to some extent. Mulch 

was not significant in 

2006.

Year by Space

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

2005 2006

lbs/acre

6

12

18

a

d d d

b

b

Figure 1. Seed yield (lbs/acre) of Sphaeralcea by row spacing 

(6, 12, or 18 inches). 

54
Four additional plant species were introduced into the experiment in 2006. The same spacings 

were used, but paper mulch was removed as a mulch treatment. Lupinus argenteus, Crepis 

intermedia, and Agoseris glauca were planted 

 

3. Manipulations of wildland bitterbrush and sagebrush stands: 

Project Status: Annual herbicide application for the competition removal treatment on 

bitterbrush was repeated in April of 2006. Two treatments were applied this year. The first was 

in April and the second in late May. Below freezing temperatures over Memorial Day weekend 

of this year froze the flowers at the Utah site. Due to complications with the unpredictable seed 

shatter, we decided to sub-sample the plants by wrapping individual reproductive stems with a 

fine mesh fabric to capture the seed rain, thus avoiding the necessity of seed harvest at precisely 

the right time. Seed bags were made of 1/8th inch mesh cut into 2 ft2

 sections and wrapped on 

three randomly selected branches on each plant. Seed bags were placed on the shrubs at the 

“blood stage” of seed ripening. This task was accomplished first at the Idaho site and continued 

through the third week of June. By the first week of July an insect infestation at the Nevada site 

was so severe that the majority of seed at this site was lost. 

Because two sites failed in seed production we modified our data point from seed production to 

potential seed production and implemented a new collection protocol based on the number of 

spurs, length, and number of leaders per unit area. Since a single spur represents one 

reproductive unit, we could estimate the potential seed production based on a plants reproductive 

potential. A one square meter quadrat was built with intersecting wires to create 25 individual 

points and 16 nested frames from which to randomly collect data. Attributes of the nearest spurto-point and the number of spurs per nested frame were recorded. For analysis, all data were 

extrapolated to a square meter basis. Since current year’s growth and the previous year’s growth 

are easily distinguishable, the same data were collected for the previous season. 

Across all sites, competition 

removal was the only treatment 

that showed a positive effect on 

spur production (Fig.2). On the 

Utah site, browse was shown to 

have a negative effect (Fig. 3). 

We attribute this to the fact that 

the Utah site was the only site to 

receive browsing during the last 

two years. It is part of a sheep 

allotment while the other two 

sites are part of a cattle allotment 

and were not grazed during the 

time of our study. 

Competition Removal

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

2005 2006

Spurs per meter 2

competition removal

no competition removal

 Figure 2. Antelope bitterbrush spurs m-2 with competition 

present or removed in 2005 and 2006. 

55
Utah Biterbush Browse

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

Utah Utah

2005 2006

S purs per m eter 2

Browse

No Browse

 

In spring 2006, herbicide was 

applied to the sagebrush 

treatments designated for 

competition removal. 

Starting in October we began 

monitoring the flowering at 

all sites. After flowering 

(approx. late October to early 

November) we used nylon 

stockings to “bag” a subsample of the inflorescences 

on each of 80 plants in the 

sample population. We 

bagged individual 

inflorescences and secured 

the bags at the bottom with nylon 

Figure 3. Antelope bitterbrush spurs m-2 with or 

without browsing in 2005 and 2006 at the Utah site. 

zip-ties. We did this to eliminate the problem of uneven seed ripening and shatter that were 

encountered in 2005. In early December, the seed bags were collected and brought back to the 

lab for processing. Data will be analyzed and reported in 2007. 

4. Seed yield losses due to tephritid fruit flies in Asteraceae 

Project Status: In 2006, three sites each for Balsamorhiza sagittata, Wyethia amplexicaulis, 

Crepis acuminata, and Agoseris glauca, were selected for 2 years of monitoring. Some of these 

sites remained from the previous season, and some were newly located to obtain a compliment of 

three sites/species. In addition to the standard seed predation rate evaluations begun in 2005, 

random plants from each population were selected for pesticide application. Imidachloprid was 

used on half the sample population as a soil drench applied early in the season, and as a spray on 

the other half at the flower bud stage just prior to flowering. Capitula of random samples from 

treated and untreated plants were collected and placed in cups for rearing. Emerged insects were 

counted and the capitula dissected to determine the extent of seed damage (Figs. 4-6). 

Additionally, plant populations were swept to quantify the composition of flower visiting insects. 

Contents of each sweep sample were aspirated and placed in 70% ethanol. A late freeze 

decimated the developing flowers at all our of our Balsamorhiza sites in 2006. 

In all cases the application of imidachloprid significantly reduced infestation rates. The soil 

drench performed better than the spray, and in some cases reduced seed predation to near zero. 

56
Neotephritis finalis

Trupanea nigricornis

Diptera other

Pteromalus sp.

Z. mississippiensis

Euderus sp.

Chalcidoid unkn

Braconus sp.

Lepidoptera

Coleoptera

Diptera Hymenoptera

0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900

abundance

- average seeds/flower head = 55 

- average seed damage = 39% 

- average seed head infestation = 74% 

- average plant infestation = 100% 

 

 

Figure 4. Composition of reared insects for Wyethia amplexicaulis. Fruit flies were the most 

dominant seed predator. 

Paroxyna sp. n.

Diptera other

Pteromalus sp.

Braconus sp.

Lepidoptera

Diptera Hymenoptera

 

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

abundance

- average seeds/flower head = 9 

- average seed damage = 14% 

- average seed head infestation = 56% 

- average plant infestation = 82% 

Figure 5. Composition of reared insects for Agoseris glauca. Fruit flies were the 

dominant seed predator.

57
Paroxyna sp. n.

Diptera other

Braconus sp.

Lepidoptera

Diptera Hymonptera

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50

abundance

- average seeds/flower head = 38 

- average seed damage = 10% 

- average seed head infestation = 18% 

- average plant infestation = 18% 

Technology transfer: 

Figure 6. Composition of reared insects for Crepis acuminata. Moths were the 

dominant seed predator. 

The following presentations were given in 2006. 

Johnson, R. L., V. J. Anderson. 2006. Estimates of seed production loss in wild plants 

populations by capitivorous fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae). 90th annual meeting for Pacific 

Branch Entomological Society of America. Maui, Hawaii. 

Johnson, R.L., V.J. Anderson. 2006. Reduction in seed yields of forbs from native stands due to 

seed predation by fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae). 2006 Society for Range Management 

Annual Meeting. Abstract 198. Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Taylor, B. G., R. L. Johnson, V. J. Anderson, B. A. Roundy. 2006. Two year evaluation of 

cultural practices on seed production of select native forbs. 2006 Society for Range 

Management Annual Meeting. Abstract 353. Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Voss, J., V. J. Anderson, R. Johnson. 2006. Effect of three rates of five different herbicides on 

seven native forbs at various growth stages. 2006 Society for Range Management Annual 

Meeting. Abstract 371. Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Roberts, L. V. J. Anderson, R. Johnson. 2006. Shrub stand manipulations to improve seed 

production in antelope bitterbrush in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah. 2006 Society for Range 

Management Annual Meeting. Abstract 308. Vancouver, British Columbia. 

58
Armstrong, J., V. J. Anderson, R. Johnson. 2006. Shrub stand manipulations to improve seed 

production in Wyoming big sagebrush in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah. 2006 Society for Range 

Management Annual Meeting. Abstract 9. Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Management Applications: 

The following take-home messages have management application: 

 The single limiting factor for increased seed production of bitterbrush and Wyoming big sage 

in wildland stands is water. Removal of plants competing for that resource can increase 

potential seed yield. 

 Productive stands of bitterbrush designated for seed harvesting should be protected from 

grazing. 

 The first season’s seed production of Sphaeralcea has the best yield potential. This is when 

plants are most vigorous and healthy. Seed production is expected to decrease after the first 

year on heavy soils unless practices are employed to decrease mortality and disease. 

 The first season’s seed production is highest for plants planted at a 6-inch within row 

spacing. This density may, however, contribute to increased plant mortality and disease in 

subsequent years. 

 Mulch type seems to have no affect on seed yield in Sphaeralcea compared to no-mulch. 

Any realized benefit may be in reduced weed control costs. 

 Overall seed yield loss in wild populations averaged between 10-39% (depending upon the 

species) due to pre-dispersal seed predators. The range of damage was much higher 

depending upon the site. Higher losses in seed yield could be expected in agricultural 

production in monoculture systems. 

 Imidachloprid proved affective at controlling seed predators, but an alternative, nonsystemic, insecticide would be required in agricultural production to prevent impacting 

pollinators. 

59
Project Title: Seed Production of Native Forbs Shows Little Response to 

Irrigation in a Wet Year 

Project Location: Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, OR 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Clinton C. Shock, Professor and Superintendent 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station 

595 Onion Ave., Ontario, OR 97914 

541.889.2174, Fax: 541.889.7831 

clinton.shock@oregonstate.edu 

Erik B.G. Feibert, Senior Faculty Research Assistant 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station

595 Onion Ave., Ontario, OR 97914 

541.889.2174, Fax: 541.889.7831 

erik.feibert@oregonstate.edu 

Lamont Saunders, Biology Research Technician 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station

595 Onion Ave., Ontario, OR 97914 

541.889.2174, Fax: 541.889.7831 

lamont.saunders@oregonstate.edu 

Project Description: 

Native forb seed is needed to restore rangelands of the Intermountain West. Commercial seed 

production is necessary to provide the quantity of seed needed for restoration efforts. A major 

limitation to economically viable commercial production of native forb seed is stable and 

consistent seed productivity over years. Variations in spring rainfall and soil moisture result in 

highly unpredictable water stress at seed set and development. Excessive water stress during 

seed set and development is known to compromise yield and quality of other seed crops. 

Native forbs are not competitive with crop weeds. Both sprinkler and furrow irrigation promote 

seed production, but risk encouraging weeds. Furthermore, sprinkler and furrow irrigation can 

lead to the loss of plant stand and seed production to fungal pathogens. By burying drip tapes at 

12-inch depth, and avoiding wetting of the soil surface, we hope to assure flowering and seed set 

without encouraging weeds or opportunistic diseases. This trial tested the effect of three 

irrigation intensities on the seed yield of seven native forb species. 

Materials and Methods: 

Plant Establishment 

Seed of seven Great Basin forb species (Table 1) was received in late November 2004 from the 

USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station (RMRS) in Boise. The plan was to plant the seed in the 

fall of 2004, but due to excessive rainfall in October, the ground preparation was not completed 

and planting was postponed to 2005. To ensure germination the seed was submitted to a cold 

60
stratification treatment. The seed was soaked overnight in distilled water on January 26, 2004. 

After soaking, the water was drained and the seed soaked for 20 minutes in a 10% by volume 

solution of 13% bleach in distilled water. The water was drained and the seed placed in a thin 

layer in plastic containers. The plastic containers had lids with holes drilled to allow air 

movement. The seed containers were placed in a cooler set at approximately 340 F. Every few 

days the seed was mixed and, if necessary, distilled water added to maintain moisture. In late 

February, seed of Lomatium grayi and Lomatium triternatum had started sprouting. 

Table 1. Forb species planted at the Malheur Experiment Station and their origins. 

Species Common name Origin Year

Eriogonum umbellatum Sulfur buckwheat Shoofly Road (ID) 2004 

Penstemon acuminatus Sand penstemon Bliss Dam (ID) 2004 

Penstemon deustus Hotrock penstemon Blacks Cr. Rd. (ID) 2003 

Penstemon speciosus Royal or sagebrush penstemon Leslie Gulch (OR) 2003 

Lomatium dissectum Fernleaf biscuitroot Mann Creek (ID) 2003 

Lomatium triternatum Nineleaf desert parsley Hwy 395 (OR) 2004 

Lomatium grayi Gray’s lomatium Weiser R. Rd. (ID) 2004 

In late February, 2005, drip tape (T-Tape TSX 515-16-340) was buried at 12-inch depth between 

two rows (30 inch rows) of a Nyssa silt loam. The drip tape was buried on alternating inter-row 

spaces (5 ft apart). The flow rate for the drip tape was 0.34 gal/min/100 ft at 8 PSI with emitters 

spaced 16 inches apart, resulting in a water application rate of 0.066 inch/hour. 

The trial was conducted in a field of Nyssa silt loam with a pH of 8.3 and 1.1% organic matter. 

On March 3, seed of all species was planted in 30 inch rows using a custom made plot grain drill 

with disk openers. All seed was planted at 20-30 seeds per foot of row. The E. umbellatum and 

Penstemon spp. were planted at 0.25 inch depth and the Lomatium spp. at 0.5 inch depth. The 

trial was irrigated with a minisprinkler system (R10 Turbo Rotator, Nelson Irrigation Corp., 

Walla Walla, WA) for even stand establishment from March 4 to April 29. Risers were spaced 

25 ft apart along the flexible polyethylene hose laterals that were spaced 30 ft apart and the water 

application rate was 0.10 inch/hour. A total of 1.72 inches of water was applied with the 

minisprinkler system. Eriogonum umbellatum, L. triternatum, and L. grayi started emerging on 

March 29. All other species, except L. dissectum, emerged by late April. Starting June 24, the 

field was irrigated using the drip system. A total of 3.73 inches of water was applied with the 

drip system from June 24 to July 7. Thereafter the field was not irrigated. 

Plant stands for E. umbellatum, all 3 Penstemons, L. triternatum, and L. grayi were uneven. 

Lomatium dissectum did not emerge. None of the species flowered in 2005. In early October, 

2005, RMRS provided additional seed for replanting. The E. umbellatum and Penstemon spp. 

plots had the empty lengths of row replanted by hand. The Lomatium spp. plots had the entire 

row lengths replanted using the planter. The seed was replanted on October 26, 2005. In the 

spring of 2006, plant stand of the replanted species was excellent, except for P. deustus. 

Irrigation for seed production

In April, 2006, the field was divided into plots 30 feet long. Each plot contained 4 rows of each 

of the 7 forb species. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with 4 

61
replicates. The three irrigation treatments were: a non irrigated check, one inch per irrigation for 

a total of 4.8 inches, and 2 inches per irrigation for a total of 8.7 inches. Four irrigations were 

applied approximately every 2 weeks starting on May 19. The amount of water applied to each 

plot was measured by a water meter for each plot and recorded after each irrigation (Table 2). At 

the first irrigation on May 19, P. acuminatus had ended flowering, P. deustus and P. speciosus

were flowering, and E. umbellatum had just initiated flowering. 

Soil volumetric water content was measured by neutron probe. The neutron probe was calibrated 

by taking soil samples and probe readings at 8, 20, and 32 inch depths during installation of the 

access tubes. The soil water content was determined volumetrically from the soil samples and 

regressed against the neutron probe readings, separately for each soil depth. The regression 

equations were then used to transform the neutron probe readings during the season into 

volumetric soil water content. 

Eriogonum umbellatum flowering started on May 19, peaked on June 24, and ended on July 28. 

Penstemon acuminatus flowering started on May 2, peaked on May 10, and ended on May 19. 

Penstemon speciosus flowering started on May 10 and peaked on May 19. Penstemon deustus

flowering started on May 10, and peaked on May 22. 

The E. umbellatum and Penstemon spp. plots produced seed in 2006, probably because they had 

emerged in the spring of 2005. In these plots, only the lengths of row that had consistent stand 

and seed production were harvested. The plant stand for P. deustus was too poor to result in 

reliable seed yield estimates. The middle two rows of each plot were harvested using a 

Wintersteiger Nurserymaster small plot combine. Penstemon acuminatus was harvested on July 

7, P. speciosus was harvested on July 13, E. umbellatum was harvested on August 3, and P. 

deustus was harvested on August 4. 

Eriogonum umbellatum seeds did not separate from the flowering sructures in the combine. 

Unthreshed E. umbellatum seed was taken to the U.S. Forest Service Lucky Peak Nursery and 

run through a dewinger to separate seed. The seed was further cleaned in a small clipper seed 

cleaner. 

Penstemon deustus seed capsules were too hard to be opened in the combine. Penstemon deustus 

unthreshed seed was pre-cleaned in a small clipper seed cleaner and capsules were then broken 

manually by rubbing on a ribbed rubber mat. The seed was then cleaned again in the small 

clipper seed cleaner. 

Penstemon acuminatus and P. speciosus threshed in the combine and the seed was further 

cleaned using a small clipper seed cleaner. 

Results and Discussion:

Precipitation in 2005 and 2006 was higher than normal at the Malheur Experiment Station 

(Figure 1). Precipitation from October 2004 through June 2005 totaled 11.1 inches and from 

October 2005 through June 2006 totaled 15.9 inches. The 62 year average precipitation for 

October through June is 9.2 inches. The wet weather could have attenuated the effects of the 

62
irrigation treatments. The actual amount of water applied for each irrigation treatment was 

relatively close to the planned amounts (Table 2). The soil volumetric water content responded 

to the irrigation treatments (Figures 2, 3, and 4). 

There was no significant difference in seed yield between irrigation treatments for P. 

acuminatus, P. deustus, and P. speciosus (Table 3). Eriogonum umbellatum showed a trend for 

increasing seed yield with increasing irrigation, with the 2 inch irrigation rate resulting in higher 

seed yield than the 1 inch irrigation rate or the non-irrigated check. Compared to the Penstemon

spp., E. umbellatum flowered later, at about the same time as the start of the irrigation 

treatments. Penstemon acuminatus had ended flowering at the start of the irrigation treatments. 

Penstemon speciosus and P. deustus were in mid-flowering at the start of the irrigation 

treatments. The later reproductive stage of E. umbellatum might explain the response to the 

irrigation treatments. 

The lack of seed yield response to irrigation of the Penstemon species in this trial is consistent 

with substantial rainfall over the winter and spring of 2006 and consistent with the rangelands 

showing vigorous growth of native plants in the spring of 2006. 

Improvements in the planned experimental protocol for 2007 are to deliver irrigation water more 

closely to the flowering and seed formation stages for each forb species. 

OctNovDecJanFebMarAprMayJun Jul

0

1

2

3

4

Precipitation (inches)

2005 2006 average

Figure 1. Monthly precipitation from October of the previous year 

through July for the displayed years. Malheur Experiment Station, 

Oregon State University, Ontario, OR, 2006. 

63
Table 2. Irrigation treatments and actual amounts of water applied to 

native forbs. Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, 

Ontario, OR, 2006. 

Irrigation rates (inches per irrigation) 

Date Planned Actual 

May 19 2 2.2 

1 1.3 

June 2 2 2.2 

1 1.2 

June 20 2 2 

1 1.2 

June 30 2 2.3 

1 1.1 

Total 8 8.7 

4 4.8 

Table 3. Native forb seed yield response to irrigation rate. Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon 

State University, Ontario, OR, 2006. 

Eriogonum 

umbellatum

Penstemon 

acuminatus

Penstemon 

deustus*

Penstemon 

speciosus

Total irrigation 

applied 

inches --------------------------------- lb/acre ------------------------------------ 

8.7 371.6 544.0 1,068.6 213.6 

4.8 214.4 611.1 1,200.8 285.4 

0 155.3 538.4 1,246.4 163.5 

LSD (0.05) 92.9 NS NS NS 

*Yields might overestimate potential commercial yields due to small areas harvested. 

64
 Figure 2. Soil volumetric water content for Eriogonum 

 umbellatum over time. Soil volumetric water content 

 is the combined average at the 8, 20, and 32 inch depths. 

 Eriogonum umbellatum was harvested on August 3 

 (day 215). Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State 

 University, Ontario, OR, 2006. 

Figure 3. Soil volumetric water content for Penstemon acuminatus over 

time. Soil volumetric water content is the combined average at the 8, 20, 

and 32 inch depths. Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, 

Ontario, OR, 2006. 

138 153 156 179 187

Day of year

2 inches 1 inch

10

15

20

25

30

Volumetric water content, %

0 inches

flowering starts mid flowering

138 153 156 179 187

Day of year

10

15

20

25

30

Volumetric water content, %

2 inches 1 inch 0 inches

flowering ends harvest

65
138 153 156 179 187

Day of year

10

15

20

25

30

Volumetric water content, %

2 inches 1 inch 0 inches

mid flowering

Figure 4. Soil volumetric water content for Penstemon speciosus 

over time. Soil volumetric water content is the combined average 

at the 8, 20, and 32 inch depths. Penstemon speciosus was harvested 

on July 13 (day 194). Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State 

University, Ontario, OR, 2006. 

66
Table 4. Soil volumetric water content for native forb species submitted to 3 irrigation intensities. 

18-May 2-Jun 5-Jun 28-Jun 

Depth 2 inches 1 inch 0 inches 2 inches 1 inch 0 inches 2 inches 1 inch 0 inches 2 inches 1 inch 0 inch

Eriogonum umbellatum

0.2 m 16.4 16.4 16.4 17.9 15.6 14.1 22.3 19.1 14.0 19.8 13.6 12.4 0.5 m 24.5 24.5 24.5 28.7 24.2 25.4 32.1 26.6 25.3 29.7 22.8 24.1 0.8 m 24.2 24.2 24.2 28.6 24.1 23.7 31.1 25.6 23.7 28.8 27.7 23.1 

Average 21.7 21.7 21.7 25.1 21.3 21.1 28.5 23.8 21.0 26.1 21.4 19.9 

Penstemon acuminatus

0.2 m 11.2 11.2 11.2 17.9 10.7 14.1 22.3 11.7 14.0 19.6 16.1 12.4 0.5 m 19.0 19.0 19.0 28.7 18.7 25.4 32.1 20.5 25.3 30.5 23.7 24.1 0.8 m 21.3 21.3 21.3 28.6 20.7 23.7 31.1 20.8 23.7 27.9 23.6 23.1 

Average 17.2 17.2 17.2 25.1 16.7 21.1 28.5 17.7 21.0 26.0 21.1 19.9 

Penstemon speciosus

0.2 m 13.1 13.1 13.1 12.1 13.7 9.8 18.0 17.0 9.5 13.6 13.2 7.3 0.5 m 30.3 30.3 30.3 25.2 22.6 22.1 32.4 25.1 21.5 26.8 22.4 18.1 0.8 m 23.9 23.9 23.9 27.4 23.6 21.6 31.8 24.1 21.2 28.7 22.8 18.4 

Average 22.4 22.4 22.4 21.5 20.0 17.8 27.4 22.1 17.4 23.0 19.4 14.6 

*inches of water per irrigation
Project Title: Tolerance of Seven Native Forbs to Preemergence and 

Postemergence Herbicides 

Project Location: Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, OR 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Clinton C. Shock 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station 

595 Onion Ave., Ontario, OR 97914 

541.889.2174, Fax 541.889.7831 

clinton.shock@oregonstate.edu 

Joey Ishida 

Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station

595 Onion Ave., Ontario, OR 97914 

541.889.2174, Fax 541.889.7831 

Joey.ishida@oregonstate.edu 

Corey Ransom 

Utah State University 

Department of Plants, Soils, and Biometeorology 

4820 Old Main Hill 

Logan, UT 84322-4820 

corey.ransom@usu.edu 

Project Description: 

Native forb seed is needed to restore rangelands of the Intermountain West. Commercial seed 

production is necessary to provide the quantity of seed needed for restoration efforts. A major 

limitation to economically viable commercial production of native forb seed is weed 

competition. Weeds are adapted to growing in disturbed soil, and native forbs are not 

competitive with these weeds. There is a considerable body of knowledge about the relative 

efficacy of different herbicides to control target weeds, but few trials have tested native forbs for 

their tolerance to commercial herbicides. 

The trials reported here tested the tolerance of seven native forb species to conventional 

preemergence and post emergence herbicides in the field. This work seeks to discover products 

that could eventually be registered for use for native forb seed production. The information in 

this report is for the purpose of informing cooperators and colleagues in other agencies, 

universities, and industry of the research results. Reference to products and companies in this 

publication is for the specific information only and does not endorse or recommend that product 

or company to the exclusion of others that may be suitable. Nor, should any information and 

interpretation thereof be considered as recommendations for the application of any of these 

herbicides. Pesticide labels should always be consulted before any pesticide use. Considerable 

efforts may be required to register these herbicides for use for native forb seed production. 

68
Materials and Methods: 

Plant Establishment 

Seed of seven Great Basin forb species (Table 1) received in October 2005 was planted 

November 1, 2005. The field had been disked, ground hogged, and marked out in rows 30 inches 

apart. The seven forb species were planted in individual rows 435 feet long 30 inches apart. 

Planting depths were similar to those used in the irrigation trial and varied by species. The crop 

preceding forbs was wheat. Prior to planting, one drip tape was inserted 12 inches deep 

equidistant between pairs of rows to be planted. The drip tape was supplied with irrigation water 

using filtration and other common drip irrigation practices (Shock et al., 2005) 

Preemergence Treatments 

The weather was wet and windy delaying the application of preemergence herbicide treatments. 

The field was staked out to make 5-ft wide plots perpendicular to the forb rows, crossing all 

seven species using the upper 200 feet of the field. Eight treatments (Table 2) including the 

untreated check were replicated four times, in a randomized complete block design. Treatments 

were applied 5 January 2006 at 30 psi, 2.63 mph, in 20 gal/ac using 8002 nozzles with three 

nozzles spaced 20 inches apart. 

By early January the planted area had volunteer wheat and blue mustard. Roundup UltraMax at 

1.01 lb ai/ac was sprayed 6 January 2006 over the entire area to control the volunteer wheat and 

other weeds that had emerged. The Roundup was applied at 30 psi, 2.63 mph, in 20 gal/ac using 

8002 nozzles with three nozzles spaced 20 inches apart. 

On 16 March there was good emergence of the Lomatium species. The forbs were cultivated 

April 13. Cultivation of adjoining areas damaged part of the Eriogonum umbellatum that had 

emerged. Starting April 17 emerged plants were counted in 6 inches of row. Plants were 

evaluated subjectively for injury on a scale of 0 = no injury and 100 = plants dead. 

Postemergence Treatments 

Postemergence treatments (Table 3) were applied in the same fashion as the preemergence 

treatments. The field was staked out to make 5-ft wide plots perpendicular to the forb rows, 

crossing all seven species using the lower 200 feet of the field. Eight treatments including the 

untreated check were replicated four times, in a randomized complete block design. Treatments 

were applied May 24 at 30 psi, 2.63 mph, in 20 gal/ac using 8002 nozzles with three nozzles 

spaced 20 inches apart. Plant injury was rated on May 31, June 15 and June 30. 

General Considerations 

The focus of the evaluations was forb tolerance to the herbicides, not weed control. Therefore, 

weeds were removed as needed. In 2006 the trial was irrigated very little using the drip irrigation 

system because of ample rainfall. 

The effects of herbicides for each species on plant stand and injury were evaluated independently 

from the effects on other species. Treatment differences were compared using ANOVA and 

protected least significant differences at the 95 percent confidence LSD (0.05) using NCSS 

Number Cruncher software. 

69
Table 1. Forb species planted at the Malheur Experiment Station and their origins. 

Species Common name Origin Year

Eriogonum umbellatum Sulfur buckwheat Shoofly Road (ID) 2004 

Penstemon acuminatus Sand penstemon Bliss Dam (ID) 2004 

Penstemon deustus Hotrock penstemon Blacks Cr. Rd. (ID) 2003 

Penstemon speciosus Royal or sagebrush penstemon Leslie Gulch (OR) 2003 

Lomatium dissectum Fernleaf biscuitroot Mann Creek (ID) 2003 

Lomatium triternatum Nineleaf desert parsley Hwy 395 (OR) 2004 

Lomatium grayi Gray’s lomatium Weiser R. Rd. (ID) 2004 

Results and Discussion: 

All observations made on the herbicides tested are strictly preliminary observations. Herbicides 

that were observed to be damaging to the forbs as reported here might be helpful if used at a 

lower rate or in a different environment. Herbicides that were relatively safe to the forbs in these 

trials might be harmful if used at higher rates or in a different environment. Nothing in this report 

should be construed as a recommendation. 

Eriogonum umbellatum (Sulfur Buckwheat) 

Sulfur buckwheat had no statistical differences to the preemergence treatments (Table 2) due to 

the considerable cultivation injury. Very few of the plants that survived cultivation injury 

survived the preemergence treatment with Outlook or Lorox. Plant stunting was observed in 

plants where the soil was treated with Kerb and Outlook. None of the sulfur buckwheat plants 

receiving Kerb preemergence survived. 

Sulfur buckwheat was subject to foliar burn and chlorosis (yellowing) with several 

postemergence herbicides (Table 3). The buckwheat was sensitive to postemergence applications 

of Buctril, Goal, Caparol, and Lorox as evidenced by statistically significant foliar damage. 

70
Table 2. Tolerance of Eriogonum umbellatum to preemergence herbicides screened at the Malheur 

Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand Injury 

Treatment Rate 

4/26 5/31 6/15 5/31 6/15 7/5 

lb ai/ac ----- counts ----- % ----------- % ----------- 

1 Untreated check -- 14.5 14 46 0 0 0 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 25.5 20 65 0 10 10 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 0 0 0 No plants 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 23.5 20.5 52.5 0 20 17.5 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 11 10 37.5 0 0 5 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 25 24 80 0 0 0 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 2.5 2.5 2 0 35 22.5 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 1 1 1 0 0 20 

10.8 Mean 12.9 11.4 34.8 0 10.8 

LSD (0.05) NS NS NS NS NS NS 

Table 3. Tolerance of Eriogonum umbellatum to postemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand 

% Injury % Rate Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 70 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 60 36.3 37.5 23.8 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 62.5 67.5 42.5 23.8 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 52.5 2.5 2.5 16.3 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 85 6.3 7.5 0 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 55 40 33.8 28.8 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 48.8 0 0 3.8 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 70 33.8 33.8 27.5 

Mean 63.0 24.0 20.3 16.0 

LSD (0.05) NS 18.7 12.7 17.4 

71
Penstemon acuminatus (Sand penstemon) 

Plant stands of sand penstemon were reduced by preemergence treatments of Prefar, Kerb, Prowl 

and Balan (Table 4). Where Kerb or Prowl was applied preemergence, almost all sand penstemon 

plants died during the first growing season. Plant stands were best where Treflan, Outlook, and 

Lorox were applied. Scattered areas of stunted plants occurred in several treatments. Foliar 

damage was minimal by July 5 where Treflan or Lorox had been applied. 

Few negative effects were noted on sand penstemon from most of the herbicides used as 

postemergence applications (Table 5). Symptoms of damage were yellowing and leaf burn. Leaf 

burn and plant stunting occurred with Caparol, a photosynthetic inhibitor. Less dramatic and 

temporary leaf damage was noted following the application of Buctril. 

Penstemon deustus (Hotrock penstemon) 

Hotrock penstemon plant stands were reduced by all the products tested except Treflan (Table 6). 

No hotrock penstemon plants were observed where the soil was treated with Kerb. The most 

common damage symptoms were yellowing and stunting. 

Hotrock penstemon plant stands were reduced by post emergence applications of Caparol and 

Outlook (Table 7). Plants treated with Select and Prowl had no phytotoxic symptoms. Burnt and 

yellowing foliage was common with Caparol, Lorox, Buctril, and Goal. Burnt and stunted 

symptoms on plants persisted to June 30 following the application of Caparol and Lorox. 

Table 4. Tolerance of Penstemon acuminatus to preemergence herbicides screened at the Malheur 

Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand Injury 

Treatment Rate 4/26 5/31 6/15 5/31 6/15 7/5 

lb ai/ac ----- counts ----- % ----------- % ----------- 

1 Untreated check -- 21.5 20.5 20.0 0 0 0 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 5 3.5 8.3 31.3 25 0 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 0.3 0.3 0.5 0 0 no plants 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 17.8 18.3 43.7 13.3 10 3.3 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 3 0.75 0.75 87.5 95 no plants 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 7.8 7.5 22.5 17.5 10 3.3 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 17.3 15.5 61.7 25 28.8 17.5 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 15.5 12.8 40.0 22.5 15 3.8 

Mean 11.0 9.9 23.1 23.1 20.6 5.3 

LSD (0.05) 12.0 11.2 43.0 27.5 29.6 NS 

72
Table 5. Tolerance of Penstemon acuminatus to postemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand 

% Injury % Rate Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 83.8 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 81.3 18.8 5 0 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 77.5 7.5 0 0 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 46.3 2.5 0 0 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 77.5 5 5 0 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 71.3 35 55 50 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 65 0 0 0 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 67.5 6.3 7.5 0 

Mean 71.25 9.375 9.0625 6.25 

LSD (0.05) NS 8.4 6.6 2.1 

Table 6. Tolerance of Penstemon deustus to preemergence herbicides screened at the Malheur 

Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand Injury 

Treatment Rate 4/26 5/31 6/15 5/31 6/15 7/5 

lb ai/ac ----- counts ----- % ----------- % ---------- 

1 Untreated check -- 37.3 25 68.8 0 0 0 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 3 2.5 5.0 0 0 7.5 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 0 0 0 No plants 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 27.8 20.3 59.3 0 12.5 0 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 6.3 4.3 15.3 0 23.3 20 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 4.8 4.3 10.8 0 16.3 12.5 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 2 1.5 1.8 0 53 70 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 0.8 0.5 1.0 0 20 10 

Mean 10.2 7.3 20.2 0 17.3 13.9 

LSD (0.05) 21.2 14.8 30.6 NS NS 22.5 

73
Table 7. Tolerance of Penstemon deustus to postemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Rate Plant stand % Injury % 

Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 98.8 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 82.5 32.5 11.3 10 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 83.8 21.3 13.8 7.5 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 91.3 0 0 0 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 95 0 0 0 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 56.3 48.8 55 42.5 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 70 0 0 0 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 86.3 38.8 48.8 42.5 

Mean 83.0 17.7 16.1 12.8 

LSD (0.05) 24.5 11.2 17.7 19.5 

Penstemon speciosus (Royal or Sagebrush penstemon) 

Royal penstemon plant stands were not affected by Treflan, Balan, or Outlook, among others 

(Table 8). Phytotoxic effects of most herbicides were moderate and diminished with time. Prowl 

and Balan applied preemergence had significant negative effects, and marked stunting with 

Prowl. No royal penstemon survived to 2007 where Kerb was applied preemergence. 

None of the postemergence herbicides tested reduced the stands of royal penstemon (Table 9). 

Royal penstemon was sensitive to Lorox and extremely sensitive to Caparol. Symptoms of 

Caparol damage included yellowing, yellow-purple foliage, and plant death. Where other 

products damaged plants, symptoms were yellowing, stunting, and leaf burn. 

Lomatium dissectum (Fernleaf biscuitroot) 

Fernleaf biscuitroot had a very brief growing season, so observations on the effects of 

preemergence herbicides were ended on May 31. No significant decreases in plant counts were 

noted due to preemergence herbicides (Table 10); however, phytotoxic symptoms on the foliage 

were commonly noted. Prefar had significantly more foliar symptoms that the untreated check on 

April 17, while Kerb, Outlook, Prowl, and Lorox had significantly more symptoms that the 

untreated check on both April 17 and May 31. None of the herbicides applied preemergence 

appeared to be totally safe at the rates used in this trial. 

Observations of the postemergence herbicides were begun in late May and continued until June 

30. The postemergence herbicides had no significant effects on plant stands at the rates tested 

(Table 11). In contrast to the negative phytotoxic effects observed with the preemergence 

herbicide applications, none of the herbicides applied postemergence had significant phytotoxic 

effects on fernleaf biscuitroot at the rates tested. 

74
Table 8. Tolerance of Penstemon speciosus to preemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand, counts Injury % 

Treatment Rate 4/26 5/31 5/31 6/15 7/5 

lb ai/ac ----- counts ----- ----------- counts ---------- 

1 Untreated check -- 22.5 20.3 0 0 0 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 10.3 9 11.7 6.7 0 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 0.3 0 ------------ No plants ------------ 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 26.3 24.8 20 12.5 8.3 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 8.8 7 73.8 57.5 41.7 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 20 20 30 26.3 8.3 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 19.5 17.3 18.8 7.5 0 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 19.8 16.3 2.5 2.5 0 

Mean 15.9 14.3 22.8 16.5 7.6 

LSD (0.05) NS 15.2 32.2 24.4 16.5 

Table 9. Tolerance of Penstemon speciosus to postemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Rate Plant stand % Injury % 

Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 71.3 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 82.5 7.5 7.5 5 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 83.8 3.8 2.5 2.5 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 92.5 3.8 0 2.5 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 92.5 2.5 0 10 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 83.8 45 83.3 81.3 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 76.3 0 0 0 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 73.8 25 28.8 33.8 

Mean 82.0 10.9 15.3 16.9 

LSD (0.05) NS 12.1 7.4 9.6 

75
Table 10. Tolerance of Lomatium dissectum preemergence herbicides 

screened at the Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, 

Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant Stand, 

counts Rate Injury % 

Treatment 

lb ai/ac 4/17 4/17 5/31 

1 Untreated check -- 18.5 0 0 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 19.8 18.8 15 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 13.5 38.8 46.3 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 16 11.3 20 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 16 20 32.5 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 16 13.8 20 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 9.5 35 41.3 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 14.8 15 27.5 

Mean 15.5 19.1 25.3 

LSD (0.05) NS 13.9 26.5 

Table 11. Tolerance of Lomatium dissectum to postemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Rate Plant stand % Injury % 

Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 96.3 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 100 3.8 5 2.5 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 95 12.5 7.5 5 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 97.5 3.8 7.5 8.8 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 96.3 5 10 7.5 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 90 0 7.5 7.5 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 100 5 2.5 0 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 100 2.5 2.5 5 

Mean 96.9 4.1 5.3 4.5 

LSD (0.05) NS NS NS NS 

76
Lomatium triternatum (Nineleaf desert parsley) 

Plant counts of nineleaf desert parsley were not affected by the preemergence herbicides at the 

rates tested (Table 12). Outlook caused significant foliar damage compared to the untreated 

check at all four observation dates. Symptoms included leaf burn, stunting, and plant death. Leaf 

burn and stunting were also noted for the plants with preemergence Lorox. 

None of the postemergence herbicides reduced plant stands as of May 24 (Table 13). Burnt plants 

and plant death occurred where Buctril was applied postemergence. Other than the very marked 

damage observed with Buctril, none of the other postemergence herbicides had significant 

amounts of foliar damage except the observations on June 30 of the plants treated with Prowl. 

Lomatium grayi (Gray’s lomatium) 

Plant counts of Gray’s lomatium were not affected by the preemergence herbicide treatments 

(Table 14). Stunting and plant death were severe where Kerb was applied preemergence. For the 

other preemergence treatments, mild stunting was noted, not significantly different from the 

untreated check treatment. 

Just like the other two Lomatiums, none of the postemergence herbicides reduced plant stands as 

of May 24 (Table 15). Like nineleaf desert parsley, Gray’s lomatium showed significantly more 

damage following postemergence application of Buctril. Buctril resulted in burnt foliage. Some 

significant foliage symptoms followed postemergence applications of Goal, Caparol, and Lorox, 

but the symptoms were significantly less than those observed with Buctril. 

Table 12. Tolerance of Lomatium triternatum to preemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand, 

counts Injury % Rate Treatment 

lb ai/ac 4/18 4/18 5/31 6/15 7/5 

1 Untreated check -- 48.5 0 0 0 5 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 42.5 0 7.5 1.3 0 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 37.5 10 10 5 8.8 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 42.5 7.5 10 6.3 7.5 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 39.8 3.8 5 0 0 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 48.8 6.3 3.8 6.3 0 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 41.3 30 40 35 38.8 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 43.8 10 11.3 11.3 11.3 

Mean 43.1 8.4 10.9 8.1 8.9 

LSD (0.05) NS 10.4 14.8 13.7 14.1 

77
Table 13. Tolerance of Lomatium triternatum to postemergence herbicides screened at the 

Malheur Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Rate Plant stand % Injury % 

Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 93.8 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 96.3 28.3 73 82.5 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 87.5 2.5 2.5 6.3 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 98.8 0 2.5 3.8 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 96.3 2.5 5 15 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 98.8 2.5 0 3.8 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 97.5 2.5 0 3.8 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 100 0 0 3.8 

Mean 96.1 4.8 10.4 14.8 

LSD (0.05) NS 9.8 9.6 11.7 

Table 14. Tolerance of Lomatium grayi to preemergence herbicides screened at the Malheur 

Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Plant stand, 

counts Injury % Rate Treatment 

lb ai/ac 4/18 4/18 5/31 6/15 7/5 

1 Untreated check -- 30.8 0 0 0 0 

2 Prefar 4.0 EC 5.0 28.3 7.5 11.3 11.3 8.8 

3 Kerb 50 WP 1.0 29.8 28.8 42.5 38.8 42.5 

4 Treflan HFP 0.375 30 7.5 7.5 5 12.5 

5 Prowl 3.8 SC 0.75 26.3 2.5 8.8 5 6.3 

6 Balan 60 DF 1.2 35.3 6.3 0 0 0 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 30.5 11.3 6.3 5 6.3 

8 Lorox 50 DF 1.0 29.8 10 11.3 6.3 8.8 

Mean 30.1 9.2 10.9 8.9 10.6 

LSD (0.05) NS 12.7 19.5 20.4 24.7 

78
Table 15. Tolerance of Lomatium grayi to postemergence herbicides screened at the Malheur 

Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Ontario, Oregon, 2006. 

Rate Plant stand % Injury % 

Treatment 

lb ai/ac 5/24 5/31 6/15 6/30 

1 Untreated -- 100 0 0 0 

2 Buctril 2.0 EC 0.125 98.8 22.5 37.5 30 

3 Goal 2XC 0.125 92.5 10 7.5 5 

Select 2.0 EC + 

Herbimax 

0.094 + 4 96.3 5 0 0 1% v/v 

5 Prowl H2O 3.8 C 1.0 96.3 5 2.5 2.5 

6 Caparol FL 4.0 0.8 90 10 7.5 7.5 

7 Outlook 6.0 EC 0.656 95 2.5 2.5 3.8 

8 Lorox 50 DF 0.5 98.8 8.85 6.3 6.3 

Mean 95.9 8.0 8.0 6.95 

LSD (0.05) NS 5.3 7.2 15.1 

Spring of 2007 

By March 30, 2007, it was difficult if not impossible to distinguish any effects of the 2006 

postemergence herbicide applications on any of the seven forb species. Preemergence herbicide 

effects from 2006 were no longer visible on the Lomatium species. Where preemergence 

herbicides hurt or killed most of the sulfur buckwheat or penstemon plants, the negative effects 

were permanent. These observations suggest that some degree of phytotoxic damage may be 

acceptable in establishing native forb seed fields if effective weed control is achieved. 

79
Project Title: Development of Germination Protocols, Seed Weight, 

Purity and Seed Conditioning/Cleaning Protocols for 

Great Basin Grasses and Forbs 

Project Location: USDA-FS National Seed Laboratory, Dry Branch, GA

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

 Robert Karrfalt, USDA-FS National Seed Laboratory 

5675 Riggins Mill Road, Dry Branch, GA 31020 

478.751.3551, rkarrfalt@fs.fed.us 

 

Victor Vankus, USDA-FS National Seed Laboratory 

5675 Riggins Mill Road, Dry Branch, GA 31020 

478.751.3551, vvankus@fs.fed.us 

Project Description: 

The USDA Forest Service, National Seed Laboratory (NSL) is collaborating with other members 

of the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project to develop seed cleaning and 

testing protocols for research species. Seed cleaning protocols involve using screens, aspirators, 

debearders and other equipment to separate seed from other material collected. Seed testing 

work includes determination of AOSA minimum purity weight recommendations and protocols 

for germination and purity determinations. The seed testing work is essential for eventual 

development of AOSA rules if seeds are going to be marketed. Seed test results are important to 

buyers and sellers for product labeling, to growers for plant production and to seed control 

officials for enforcement of state and federal seed laws. Seed testing rules for these species will 

be necessary as these seeds enter the market. 

Project Status: 

The NSL has received collections of five species for seed cleaning protocols, Balsamorhiza 

hookeri, Chaenactis douglasii, Crepis acuminata, Erigeron pumilis, and Penstemon deustus. 

Guidelines and recommendations for cleaning collections of these species have been developed 

and will be posted on the NSL website, www.nsl.fs.fed.us/great_basin_native_plants.html, and at 

the Native Plant Program website, www.nativeplants.for.uidaho.edu/network. 

Species and number of collections received in 2004 from cooperators for seed testing protocols 

include: Agoseris glauca 4, Astragalus filipes 30, Crepis acuminata 3, Eriogonum umbellatum

18, Lomatium dissectum 23, L. grayi 10, L. triternatum 7, Penstemon acuminatus 36, P. deustus

35, and P. speciosus 20. In 2005 these additional species and lots were received: Agoseris 

glauca 5, Lomatium dissectum 19, L. grayi 4, L. triternatum 4, Balsamorhiza sagittata 1, Crepis 

acuminata 2, Astragalus eremiticus 2, Aristida purpurera 1, Eriogonum heracleoides 1, E. 

umbellatum 5, Penstemon acuminatus 5, and P. deustus 11. 

Seed counts and recommended minimum purity test weights have been developed. Information 

is available on the NSL website and will be available at the Association of Official Seed 

Analysts (AOSA) website for Species without Seed Testing Procedures, 

www.aosaseed.com/reference.htm. 

80
The first round of germination trials for all collections was completed in 2004. Seed was tested 

with and without prechill, with and without light, and using two sets of temperatures for 

germination, 15-25 o

C. and 20-30 oC., two temperature regimes common at many seed 

laboratories. Results indicate that further trials are needed with varying lengths of prechill and 

with lower temperature regimes for germination. The second round of testing indicated that cool 

germination temperatures were better, and many seeds germinated in the dark of the chilling 

room at 3 oC. A third round of tests used the following temperatures mostly in the dark and with 

and without stratification: 5-10, 5-20, 5-30, 15, 15-25, 20, 30 o o C. Light was applied at 5-10 C. 

(When two numbers are given for temperature, the first is for 16 hours and the second is for 8 

hours. A single number indicates a constant temperature. When light is used it is used for 8 

hours and at the higher temperature if alternating.) 

Preliminary data is available on Lomatium. Lomatium grayi appears to germinate well without 

stratification at 5-10 o

C or constant 5 oC. Light does not seem to help or hinder. Even at 15 oC 

germination requires stratification. A cold night (16 hours) does not give germination if 

temperature is warm during the day as 5-20 o o C and 5-30 C gave no germination. Lomatium 

dissectum appears to need about 4 weeks of stratification to germinate at 5 and 10 oC, while L. 

triternatum needs an even longer stratification as it did not germinate at the apparent optimum 

temperature even with the stratification. Results are summarized in Fig. 1. 

Seed weight work continues with each year’s collection to improve the estimates made in the 

first year. 

As greater quantities of seed become available for a particular species, ring tests can be 

conducted between a few AOSA and research laboratories. Rule proposals developed and 

submitted to AOSA will be based on this ring test data. 

The NSL will continue to work with AOSA to promote the standardization of seed testing 

methods for native species. The NSL is a member of the AOSA Native Species Seed Task Force 

formed in 2005 and will continue working with this group in 2007, participating in a Native Seed 

Workshop at Omaha, NE and at the AOSA annual conference at Indianapolis, IN. 

Products

Presentations: 

R.P. Karrfalt, V.G. Vankus, and J.R. Barbour. Germination, seed weight, purity, and seed 

cleaning protocols for Great Basin native plants. Society for Range Management 60th Annual 

Meeting, February 15, 2007. 

Technology Transfer: 

Attended the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) annual meeting in June 2006. 

Discussions at the conference related to GBNPP work with other seed testing laboratories with 

continued participation in the Native Species Seed Task Force to address the issue of 

standardization of seed testing and reporting procedures at seed testing laboratories which met in 

Nebraska in 2006. 

81
As they becomes available, data are posted to the internet at: 

www.nsl.fs.fed.us/great_basin_native_plants.html and www.nativeplants.for.uidaho.edu/network 

Figure 1. Germination data from two lots (6-026, 6-027) of Lomatium grayi seeds. A “c” with 

the temperature indicates the seeds were chilled at 3 oC for 4 weeks prior to germination. 

Daytime temperatures above 10 oC suppressed germination unless the seed was chilled prior to 

germination. 

0

20

40

60

Germ %

30 202525c 15c 1015

5

10

15

Day Temp

Night 

Temp

Lomatium grayi 6-026

Round 2

0

20

40

60

80

100

Germ 

%

101515c202525c30

5

10

15

Day Temp

Lomatium grayi 6-027 Round 2

82
Project Title: Establishment of Native Plants Through Improved 

 Propagation Techniques and Seedling Disease Control 

Project Location: Brigham Young University and USDA FS Shrub Sciences 

 Laboratory, Provo, Utah 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Brad Geary, Assistant Professor 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 263 WIDB 

Provo, Utah 84602 

801.422.2369, Fax: 801.422.0008 

brad_geary@byu.edu 

Scott Jensen, Botanist 

USDA-FS-RMRS Shrub Sciences Laboratory 

735 N. 500 E., Provo, UT 84606-1865 

801.356.5128, Fax: 801.375.6968 

sljensen@fs.fed.us 

Project Description: 

Increase seed germination by inoculation with Aspergillus and Alternaria fungi. Hard seeded 

dormancy of Astragalus utahensis prevents germination under optimal moisture conditions even 

after scarification with 98% H2SO4. Seeds inoculated with Aspergillus spp. (Asp) and Alternaria 

spp. (Alt) germinate rapidly (83% and 28%) over H2O (6%). Physical manipulation by the fungi 

show elevated response in seed coat removal. Pin pricking responses are similar to soaking the 

seeds in broth where the fungi have been grown but are removed. Future research in consortium 

tests (use of 4 filtrates in combination with mechanical scarification) will likely show strong 

correlation to the direct inoculation tests. Grass species were also inoculated with Aspergillus 

and Alternaria. Trials are just beginning to determine efficacy of the fungi on other plant seed. 

Native plant seedling disease control. Many of the seedlings from Astragalus utahensis die 

shortly after emergence. Isolation and fungicide/bactericide tests were conducted to determine if 

the seedling mortality is due to biotic stresses or abiotic stresses. 

Improved propagation techniques to increase seedling survivability. High frequencies of 

seedling mortality occur after the first two true leaves appear on Lupinus species. Studies 

indicated that the cause of death is not due to biotic organisms like fungi or bacteria, but are due 

to physiological issues within the plant. Seedling fertility may be an abiotic stress that is 

influencing mortality, therefore seedlings will be fertilized with liquid fertilizers to determine if 

seedling survival can be increased. 

83
Project Status: 

Increase seed germination by inoculation with Aspergillus and Alternaria fungi.

Germination of Astragalus utahensis increased significantly (P < 0.05) when seeds were 

inoculated with Aspergillus and Alternaria (Fig. 1). Alternaria inoculated seeds had 

significantly more germination at 11 days than the Aspergillus treated seeds, and the Aspergillus

treatment was significantly better than the water control. Identical inoculation studies were 

conducted again but the seeds were planted in potting soil and grown in a growth chamber and in 

a greenhouse. In both growing areas, the seeds inoculated with Aspergillus and Alternaria had 

significantly (P < 0.05) higher germination than did the water control (Figs. 2 and 3). 

Aspergillus treated seeds tended to have higher germination, but it was not significantly different 

from that of the Alternaria treated seeds. 

Figure 1. Germination response in-vitro of Astragalus utahensis seeds inoculated with 

Aspergillus or Alternaria. 

'Fixed Spore Count' Direct Inoculation: Tests 1-3

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Time (days)

% germination

ASP

ALT

 H20

ASP 0 0.0083 0.0125 0.025 0.0417 0.0708 0.1125 0.1292 0.1583 0.1792 0.1958

ALT 0 0 0.025 0.0958 0.1333 0.2208 0.2958 0.4 0.4542 0.4875 0.5167

 H20 0.0042 0.0083 0.0125 0.0208 0.0333 0.0333 0.0375 0.0417 0.0417 0.0417 0.0417

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

A**

B*

C*

84
Figure 2. Germination response of Astragalus utahensis seeds inoculated with Aspergillus or 

Alternaria in soil in a growth chamber. 

Growth Chamber #2 Day 30

14

10.75 

5.25 *

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Mean Emergence

Asp

Alt

Cntrl

A

A

B

Figure 3. Germination response of Astragalus utahensis seeds inoculated with Aspergillus or 

Alternaria in soil in a greenhouse. 

Greenhouse 1-3 Day 30

8.2 8.7

2.8**

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Mean Emergence

Asp

Alt

Cntrl

85
Studies looking at Aspergillus and Alternaria influence on grass seed germination are also being 

conducted. From preliminary data collected thus far from in-vitro studies it appears that 

Aspergillus and Alternaria increase germination over water controls. Data are not presented here 

because the study is on-going. 

Native plants seedling disease control.

Lupinus seeds were planted in potting soil and then removed from the soil on timed intervals of 

3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 days. Seeds were then surface sterilized in a 10% bleach solution, cut in half 

and placed on potato dextrose agar. Many different fungi and bacteria grew from the seeds. One 

fungus that was of interest that could cause seedling damping off was Fusarium. A number of 

bacteria genera were identified. Most were of the genus Agrobacterium, 15 isolates were 

Erwinia, 5 were Pseudomonus, and 4 were Xanthamonas. A number of the bacteria could be 

pathogenic, however, when isolations were made from dying seedlings most did not have any 

fungi or bacteria grow out on the potato dextrose agar. The dying seedlings were also stained 

with lanolin blue to identify any fungi, but no fungal infections could be identified. 

To further test if the seedlings were dying due to fungi or bacteria, four different species of 

Lupinus (LUSE, LUAR, LUPO, LUCA) seeds were treated with various fungicides and 

bacteriacides. None of the seed treatments were significantly (P < 0.05) better that the untreated 

control seeds (Table 1). Two treatments (PCNB and Mancozeb) had significantly lower 

germination, most likely due to a phytotoxic effect on the seedlings from the chemicals. A 

number of fungicides and bacteriacides were used to minimize phytotoxic effects from the 

chemicals and to target specific fungi or bacteria since all chemicals do work equally well on 

different microorganisms. 

Table 1. Germination percentages for Lupinus seeds (data combined for all four 

species) treated with different fungicides and bacteriacides. 

Seed treatments Germination percentage Significance 

Arpon 60.3 A 

Maxim 59.1 A 

Dynasty 56.6 A 

Streptomyacin 55.9 A 

Control 53.5 AB 

Captan 32.3 BC 

PCNB 28.7 C 

Mancozeb 27.7 C 

Observations of many seedlings that were dying once the cotyledons were out showed that roots 

were not forming. The shoot from which the cotyledons were produced was the only portion of 

the plant emerging from the seed. This observation strongly suggested that seedling death was 

due to a physiological condition within the plant/seed, or the scarification methods used to break 

dormancy were causing detrimental effects on the seedling. The lack of fungi identified within 

dying plants, the number of fungi and bacteria (with no predominating organism) isolated from 

the seeds, and no beneficial influence from the fungicides or bacteriacides suggest that seed 

mortality is due to an abiotic stress upon the plant. 

86
Seeds that do produce roots are still dying but it may be from a lack of nutrients. Therefore, this 

study is continuing by germinating seedlings in nutrient poor media and then applying liquid 

nutrients to determine if seedling survival can be increased. 

Improved propagation techniques to increase seedling survivability. 

Fertility studies, as mentioned above, are on going to determine if seedling survivability can be 

improved. Along with the fertility is the use of Rhizobium inoculations made to the seeds to 

determine if the symbiotic relationship between the seedling and the bacteria stimulate Lupinus 

growth and survival. Commercial inoculates of Rhizobium are being used as well as Rhizobium 

taken from wild plants, which was collected and cultured. All types will be added to seeds to 

determine if the Rhizobium can increase survival and growth. 

Technology Transfer: 

Oral presentations with abstracts: 

Eldredge, S., B. Geary, J. Gardner, and S. Jensen. 2006. Viability of an accelerated germination 

response of fungal inoculated Astragalus utahensis seed in soil. 51st Annual Meeting of the 

Agronomy – Soil – Crop Science Society of America, Nov. 12-16, Indianapolis, IN. 

Eldredge, S., B. Geary, S. Jensen and J. Gardner. 2006. Mechanisms of accelerated germination 

of Astragalus utahensis with Aspergillus and Alternaria fungi. American Phytopathological 

Society, July 29-Aug. 2, Quebec, Canada. Phytopathology 96: S32. 

Poster presentation with abstract: 

Eldredge, S., B. Geary, S. Jensen, and J. Gardner. 2005. Increased germination of Astragalus 

utahensis with the fungi Alternaria and Aspergillus. 69th Annual Meeting Crop Science Society 

of America. Nov. 6-10, Salt Lake City, Utah. 

87
88

Project Title: Pollinator and Seed Predator Studies

Project Location: USDA ARS Bee Biology and Systematics Lab, Logan, Utah 

Principal Investigator and Contact Information: 

 James H. Cane, Research Entomologist 

 USDA-ARS Bee Biology and Systematics Lab 

 Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-5310 

435.797.3879, Fax: 435.797.0461 

jcane@biology.usu.edu 

Project Description: 

Native bees and/or honey bees are proving to be beneficial or necessary to pollinate nearly all of 

the wildflower species considered for Great Basin rehabilitation. The pollinator faunas of many 

of these candidate plant genera include one or more bee genera with potentially manageable 

species, especially species of Osmia. A minority of species attracts and is pollinated by honey 

bees or managed alfalfa leaf-cutting bees. 

 

Pollinator needs are being evaluated by comparing fruit and seed sets at caged flowers, openly 

visited flowers, and manually pollinated flowers. If plant reproduction proves to be pollinator 

limited, then native bee faunas are surveyed and evaluated at managed and wild flowering 

populations. If bees are sufficiently abundant, then single-visit pollination efficiencies at 

previously caged flowers can directly evidence each bee species’ contribution to seed 

production. 

 

Concurrently, drilled wooden nesting blocks are placed in these habitats to acquire captive 

populations of one or more promising cavity-nesting pollinators. Currently managed bee species 

(alfalfa leaf-cutting bees, blue orchard bees, alkali bees, honey bees) are being evaluated for their 

pollination prowess with each of the target plant species as well, using our common gardens or 

managed stands maintained by BLM and USFS collaborators on this proposal. Practical 

management protocols and materials will be developed to sustainably manage pollinators onfarm. 

In addition, any prevalent floral herbivores and seed predators are being collected, reared and 

identified, as they subtract from the potential seed production initiated by pollinators. Lastly, 

pollination information is being disseminated to collaborators and growers, and if need be, 

populations of native cavity-nesting pollinators acquired, increased and distributed to growers 

with guidance for the bees’ management. 

Project Status: 

Additional systematic censuses of bees (as individuals per 100 flowering plants) were sampled at 

Lomatium dissectum, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Astragalus filipes and Lupinus argenteus in states 

not before sampled, with new bee surveys started for two globemallows (Sphaeralcea). In 

addition, an efficient unbiased large-scale method was developed and tested for future use in 
89

characterizing the response of bee communities to ecological perturbations (esp. fire, cheatgrass 

invasion). Basically, it allows pairwise comparison of passively sampled bee communities and 

net-collected floral guilds within and beyond the perturbed area, with a quick estimate of density 

of sagebrush and the target forb species. 

We prepared raised, irrigated seed beds for this coming year’s experimental plantings of 

Sphaeralcea and Lomatium. We also transplanted greenhouse seedlings of Lomatium triternatum 

and L. grayi, and transplanted 100 more taproots of Lomatium dissectum. Deer have been 

excluded with an 8’ perimeter fence that we built. 

 

Pollinators, particularly bees, will be needed for seed production at most of the native forbs 

chosen for this project from the Great Basin flora. In 2006 we focused our studies of breeding 

biologies on established plants of 3-yr-old Dalea ornata and 2-yr-old D. searlsiae growing in our 

20' x 20' common garden plots. Deer depredation cost us our Lomatium dissectum pollination 

experiments.
For both Dalea ornata and D. searlsiae, autopollination on caged racemes yielded dismal seed 

production (3-4% of available flowers set a seed, and 80-97% of those seeds were small and of 

questionable viability). Hence, pollinators are essential to seed production by these two prairieclovers. Manual self-pollination of Dalea ornata yielded no more seed than autopollination, but 

manual outcrossing yielded a 50% seed set, 1/3 of the seeds being large. At D. searlsiae, selfpollination gave 14% seed set and outcrossing only 20% seed set. Because all plants were within 

a cage, we could not compare with free pollination by bees. For 2007 experiments, we have built 

individual cages to repeat pollination treatments on D. searlsiae, and evaluate both species for 

their attractiveness to bees and bees’ resultant pollination service. At D. purpurea, bees 

outperformed us, doubling the percentage of seeded pods and large seeds per pod, so we expect 

similarly good pollination by bees with these two Great Basin prairie-clovers. We are also 

expecting that the plants, being a year older, will be more robust. 

In general, it appears that bees are the essential pollinators for the selected wildflower species. 

Studies of the pollination needs of Hedysarum boreale Nutt. have recently been completed by 

graduate student Katharine Swoboda. They are illustrative and detailed here. Her manual 

pollinations showed that H. boreale is self-compatible; however, H. boreale did not produce 

fruits or seeds in the absence of bee visitors because the flowers are mechanically incapable of 

autopollination. Manual selfing yielded more seedless pods and more small seeds than 

outcrossing. Conversely, bee pollination of H. boreale flowers yielded abundant large, viable 

seed, the quantities being intermediate between that of selfing via geitonogamy and out-crossing 

(xenogamy). Hence, bee pollination apparently yields a mix of selfing and outcrossing. 

Cultivated H. boreale flowers abundantly, producing four million new flowers daily per acre. 

Flowers produce abundant pollen (50,000 grains per flower) and nectar (1-2 liters per acre of 

nectar with 60% sugar content). Diverse bee species in the families Apidae and Megachilidae 

were found in surveys at H. boreale flowers. Female bees often collect both nectar and pollen 

from H. boreale for provisioning their progeny. In general, Osmia species are an important 

component of H. boreale pollinator faunas. Three solitary, cavity-nesting candidate Osmia

species were chosen and evaluated for their management potential as H. boreale pollinators. All 

three reproduced and could increase with H. boreale as their only pollen and nectar source. 

Nesting success by O. lignaria Say was limited, however, by the mismatch of the bee’s early 

natural emergence date and the later bloom of Hedysarum. Later flying O. lignaria from colder 

climates could be used to pollinate H. boreale flowering earlier in warmer climes. Nesting results 

from the other two Osmia species, O. bruneri Cockerell and O. sanrafaelae Parker, were more 

encouraging. In cages, both species provisioned enough daughters to increase in subsequent 

years. Comparable increases were obtained with O. sanrafaelae that we flew in a 2-acre 

production field of H. boreale managed by Rick Dunne near Lander, WY. Their nesting habits 

are known from earlier publications. Both species proved to be effective and consistent 

pollinators of H. boreale flowers, their foraging behaviors compensating for a seeming sizemismatch with the flowers. Experimental estimates of seed yield per forager were compromised 

by an outbreak of rust on the sweetvetch grown in the pollination cages. Honeybees were 

mediocre pollinators of H. boreale compared to other species, but they could serve in some 

agricultural settings to pollinate H. boreale. Populations of the two promising Osmia are 

currently being increased for commercial pollination of H. boreale. 

90
Systematic samples of bee faunas continue, targeting six floral hosts sampled at 40 locations in 

the heart of the Great Basin and adjacent Snake River Plains. We focused on extending field 

sampling of bee faunas at A. filipes this year, systematically sampling at sites all across Nevada, 

southern Idaho and eastern Oregon. Species of the bee genus Osmia were numerous and diverse 

at flowers of A. filipes and Balsamorhiza, whereas bees were always exceptionally sparse at 

Lupinus argenteus. Once again, only ground-nesting Andrena bees were found at Lomatium (L. 

dissectum, L. triternatum), that generalization now extending from western WY to southcentral 

ID to northern Utah and northern and central Nevada. 

Managed populations of several pollinator species are increasing, primarily at our trial gardens in 

Logan. We are able to increase populations of the native bees O. bruneri, O. lignaria, O. 

sanrafaelae, and Hoplitis albifrons, even when restricted to foraging at flowers of our target forb 

species. 

The Hoplitis was a surprise, for although they abundantly visit and pollinate H. boreale, general 

experience with this genus is that emerging adults disperse rather than nest in provided nesting 

substrates. In large field cages, all three species of Hoplitis bees that we evaluated as manageable 

pollinators for H. boreale happily foraged at sweetvetch, provisioning nest cells with its pollen 

and producing progeny. Preliminary single-visit pollination experiments reveal that they are 

good pollinators. Emerging females of two of the species were prone to disperse away from 

provided nesting materials, but Hoplitis albifrons remained and increased in our wooden nesting 

blocks. We will progress with its pollination evaluation and population increase. 

Native herbivorous insects have the potential to become pests of seed production on each of the 

wildflower species studied to date. Seed weevils and their kin have been found attacking 

maturing seeds of four of the forb genera studied to date. This year I found weevils attacking 

maturing pods of globemallows. Our primary focus will be on establishing life histories for these 

and other herbivorous species that attack buds, flowers and seeds (adults are needed for ID). We 

will continue to evaluate their abilities to travel and reproductively cycle in dried seed, which so 

far has not been a problem for the species that we have found. As needed, I will help Bob 

Hammon at Colorado State University to develop practical, safe and effective means of avoiding, 

excluding or treating each of these insects for future use when these wildflowers are grown in 

row crop agriculture. 

Products: 

A practical, affordable nesting shelter for managing cavity-nesting bees for pollination on farm 

has been developed and successfully field trialed in 3 states with 4 species of cavity-nesting bees. 

The shelter is adapted from laminate tubs manufactured for the US Postal Service. The metal 

support bracket, which quickly bolts to a T-post, was developed with a manufacturer of grape 

arbor equipment, Quiedan, Inc. They now manufacture the brackets on demand. One complete 

unit costs less than $25. 

Four Osmia bee species and one Hoplitis species that effectively pollinate are being increased at 

the Logan labs for eventual distribution to seed growers. With our guidance, one of these, O. 

91
sanrafaelae, is also being successfully increased at Wind River Farm for pollination of 

sweetvetch. 

Publications: 

Cane, J.H. 2006. An evaluation of pollination mechanisms for purple prairie-clover, Dalea 

purpurea (Fabaceae: Amorpheae). Amer. Midl. Natur. 156: 193-197. 

Cane, J.H. 2006. The Logan Beemail shelter: a practical, portable unit for managing cavitynesting agricultural pollinators. American Bee Journal. 146(7): 611-613. 

Cane, J.H. 2007. Pollinating bees crucial to farming wildflower seed for U.S. habitat 

restoration. in Bee Pollination in Agricultural Ecosystems (eds. R.R. James and T. Pitts-Singer). 

Univ. Chicago Press. (accepted December 2006). 26 ms pages + 3 figures. 

Cane, J.H., T.G. Griswold and F.D. Parker. Substrates and materials used for nesting by North 

American Osmia bees. Ann. Entomol. Soc. Amer. (in print). 24 ms pages + 1 plate + 3 page 

table. 

K.A. Swoboda. 2006. The pollination ecology of Hedysarum boreale and evaluation of its 

pollinating bees for restoration seed production. Thesis, Utah State University. 

Technology Transfer: 

Invited symposium presentation entitled: “Bees and the seeds that their pollination breeds”. 

Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, Boise, Idaho, 2006. 

Invited seminar entitled: “Pollinating and growing desert wildflowers for seed for ecological 

restoration”. Plant Ecology Institute, University of Uppsala, Sweden, 2006. 

Invited restoration symposium presentation entitled: “Pollinating Great Basin forbs for seed to 

rehabilitate western rangelands”. Society for Rangeland Management, Reno, Nevada, scheduled 

for February 2007. 

Research was highlighted by Kevin Hacket, USDA ARS National Program Leader, at the 

October 2006 meeting of the North American Pollinator Protection Campaign in Washington, 

DC. 

92
Project Title: Insect Pests of Selected Grass and Forb Species in the 

Great Basin

Project Location: Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, Tri-River Area, 

Grand Junction, CO 

Principal Investigator and Contact Information: 

Robert Hammon, Extension Agent 

Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, Tri-River Area 

P.O. Box 20,000-5028, Grand Junction CO 81502-5028 

970.244.1834, Fax: 970.244.1700 

bob.hammon@mesacounty.us 

 

Project Description: 

Many insects affect seed production of native plants. These include specialist insects that feed on 

the plants in their native habitat and generalist crop pests that move into monocultures planted as 

seed increase plots. We need to know as much as possible about insect life histories before 

management techniques can be developed. This project is designed to learn the natural history of 

insects that affect field-collected and field-grown seed associated with the Great Basin Native 

Plant Selection and Increase Project. Fields and collection sites were surveyed for insect pests, 

and when problems were found, specimens were forwarded to the Grand Junction, Colorado 

Extension office for identification. In addition, seed increase fields of project species located in 

southwestern Colorado were monitored for pests. 

Samples submitted for diagnosis were photographed and placed into a secure collection for 

future reference and educational programming. Species that needed further taxonomic work 

were forwarded to specialists for identification. Specimens are currently stored at the Tri-River 

Cooperative Extension Office in Grand Junction, CO, the USDA-ARS Bee Biology and 

Systematics Lab in Logan, UT, or with the taxonomist responsible for identification of the 

particular taxa. 

Project Status: 

A summary of insect pests collected from wildland s

and field plantings associated with the project is 

provided in Table 1. Two previously unknown insects 

were added to the list in 2005, with two more added in 

2006. A previously undescribed species of 

Acanthosceliedes was discovered feeding on 

Hedysarum boreale in Utah, and an unidentified 

tephritid fly was discovered feeding on Lupinus 

argenteus in Colorado in 2005. An undescribed pyralid 

moth was discovered attacking Lupinus sericeus seeds 

near Hotchkiss, Colorado, and an Aphis sp. aphid was 

discovered attacking the foliage of Dalea purpurea near 

ites 

Figure 1. The larvae of this small 

undescribed moth were found destroying 

seed of Lupinus sericeus at Hotchkiss, CO.

93
Logan, Utah in 2006. In addition, samples taken from small seed increases in southern Idaho 

and southern Colorado have shown that Lygus bugs are a significant seed production pest on 

many species of forbs, especially Penstemon and Hedysarum. A management strategy for these 

generalist feeders will have to be developed for each seed increase site. 

Seed increase fields of Hedysarum boreale, Linum lewisii, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Bromus 

marginatus, Hesperostipa comata, Elymus elymoides, Leymus cinereus, and Poa secunda were 

established during 2005 and 2006 at the Western Colorado Research Center at Rogers Mesa, 

near Hotchkiss, Colorado (Delta County) as part of the Uncompahgre Plateau Project. These 

fields will be utilized in the future for pest management research, which will be utilized by seed 

growers, associated with both projects. 

Table 1. Insect and disease pests identified from Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project. 

Plant species Pest Order: Family Attacks:

Astragalus filipes Acanthoscelides sp Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Astragalus filipes Acanthoscelides pullus Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Astragalus filipes Acanthoscelides fraterculus Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Astragalus filipes Acanthoscelides aureolus Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Astragalus filipes Tychius tectus leConte Coleoptera: Curculionidae Seeds Cane 2004 

Astragalus filipes Tychius semisquamosus Coleoptera: Curculionidae Seeds Cane 2004 

Balsamorhiza sagittata Trupanea jonesi Diptera: Tephritidae Head/seed Hammon 2004 

Balsamorhiza sagittata recepticle feeding fly Diptera: Ceciomyiidae Receptacle Hammon 2004 

Crepis acuminata Rust Whole plant Hammon & Shaw 

2004 

Crepis acuminata Seed feeding fly Diptera:Tephritidae Head/seed Hammon & Shaw 

2004 

Dalea ornata Acanthoscelides oregonensis Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Dalea ornata Acanthoscelides daleae Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Dalea ornata Apion spp Coleoptera: Brentidae Seeds Cane 2004 

Dalea ornata Lycaeides melissa Lepidoptera:Lycaenidae Flowers Cane 2004 

Dalea ornata Acanthosceliedes sp. Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane & Johnson 2004 

Eriogonum umbellatum Seed feeding caterpillar Lepidoptera Seeds DeBolt 2004 

Hedysarum boreale Acanthoscelides fraterculus Hammon, Johnson 

1991 

Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds 

Hedysarum boreale Acanthoscelides sp. Coleoptera: Bruchidae Seeds Cane 2006 

Hedysarum boreale Lycaeides melissa Lepidoptera:Lycaenidae Flowers Hammon 2006 

Hedysarum boreale Filatima xanthuris Lepidoptera:Gelechiidae Foliage Cane & Lee 

Lomatium dissectum Smicronyx sp. Coleoptera: Curculionidae Seeds Cane 2004 

Lomatium dissectum Depressaria multifidae Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae Flowers Cane 2004 

Lomatium dissectum Aphis heraclella Homoptera: Aphididae Heads Cane 2004 

Lupinus argenteus Diptera:Tephritidae Seeds Hammon 2006 

Lupinus sericeus Pima sp. Lepidoptera: Pyralidae Seeds Hammon 2006 

Penstemon sp. Kushelinea barbarae Hammon & DeBolt 

2004 

Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae Foliage 

Penstemon sp. Hesperobaris ovulum ?? Coleoptera: Curculionidae Stems/crown Hammon & O'Brien 

Penstemon sp. Penstemona sp. Lepidoptera: Sessidae Seems/crown Hammon & Cane 

Leymus cinereus Seed fly Diptera: Ottididae Seeds Hammon & Young 

Leymus cinereus Crambus sp. Lepidoptera: Pyralidae Seeds Hammon 2004 

 

94
Project Title: Diversification of Crested Wheatgrass Stands

Project Location: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 

 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Bruce A. Roundy 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.8137, Fax: 801.422.0090 

bruce_roundy@byu.edu 

 

Val Anderson 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.3527, Fax: 801.422.0090 

val_anderson@byu.edu 

Brad Jessop 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.3177, Fax: 801.422.0090 

bdjessop@hotmail.com 

 

 April Hulet, Graduate Student 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

huletapril@hotmail.com 

Jennifer Coleman, Graduate Student 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

Brigham Young University, 275 WIDB 

Provo, UT 84602 

mossytree@byu.edu 

Reporting for work funded, in part, by both the USDI Bureau of Land Management Great Basin 

Native Plant Selection and Increase Project and undergraduate mentoring funds, Brigham Young 

University. 

95
Project Description: 

This work is designed to determine effective ways to control crested wheatgrass and establish 

native species while minimizing weed invasion. We will report on progress for 2006 and state 

directions for 2007. 

Crested wheatgrass diversification:

Two sites in Tooele Co., Utah were selected for large-scale manipulation of crested wheatgrass 

stands. The Skull Valley site, which borders the U.S. Army Dugway Proving Ground, is at an 

elevation of 1524 m, receives 200-254 mm of precipitation annually and has Medburn fine sandy 

loam soils. The Lookout Pass site is approximately 45 miles southeast of the Skull Valley site 

and located on the eastern side of the Onaqui Mountains. It is slightly higher in elevation (1676 

m) and precipitation (254-305 mm) than the Skull Valley site and has Taylor’s flat loamy soil. 

Both sites were seeded to crested wheatgrass monocultures more than 10 years ago following 

wildfires. Prior to treatment, the crested wheatgrass stand at Skull Valley was not as vigorous as 

the Lookout Pass site and had an abundance of cheatgrass. 

The study is replicated in both time (year 1 = 2005; year 2 = 2006) and space and is set up as a 

randomized block split plot design with 5 blocks. Within each block, 1-acre (0.4-ha) main plots 

were either left undisturbed or received a mechanical (1-way or 2-way disking) or herbicide 

treatment (16 oz/ac. or 44 oz/ac. [1.1 L/ha or 3.2 L/ha] Roundup Original Max) to reduce (partial 

control) or eliminate (full control) crested wheatgrass. Following wheatgrass control, main plots 

were divided into 0.5-ac (0.2-ha) subplots that were either seeded or unseeded. In both 2005 and 

2006, herbicide treatments were applied in late May while mechanical treatments were applied in 

early June. Plots were seeded with a Truax Rough Rider rangeland drill in October 2005 and 

2006. The drill was specially configured to drill or broadcast seed in alternating rows with the 

goal of drilled species being planted no deeper than 1.3 cm. Brillion packer wheels placed 

immediately after the drop tubes pressed broadcast species into the soil. With the exception of 

‘Appar’ flax, all species used in the seed mix are native and where possible collected or grown in 

proximity to the study sites. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources supplied all seed for the 

study except for Eagle western yarrow. 

Table 1. Crested wheatgrass diversification study seed mix. 

Drill Mix 

 PLS Bulk 

SPECIES lbs/acre lbs/acre 

Bluebunch wheatgrass – Anatone 3.00 3.16 

Squirreltail - SID Sanpete 2.00 2.82 

Indian ricegrass - 'Nezpar' 2.00 2.13 

Fourwing saltbush 1.00 3.48 

Lewis flax - 'Appar' 0.75 0.83 

Munro globemallow 0.50 0.84 

Total 9.25 13.26 

96
Broadcast Mix 

 PLS Bulk 

SPECIES lbs/acre lbs/acre 

Sandberg bluegrass - SID OR 0.75 0.95 

White-stemmed rabbitbrush 0.25 0.75 

Wyoming big sagebrush 0.20 0.94 

Western yarrow – Eagle 0.20 0.24 

Total 1.40 2.88 

Data Collection Methods: 

In each subplot, five transects were established and six quadrats were placed along each transect 

for a total of 30 samples per subplot or 1500 samples per site. Both transects and quadrats were 

placed in a stratified random manner by selecting a random starting point and then placing both 

the transects and quadrats at consistent intervals. At Lookout Pass, transects were spaced every 

12 meters beginning at meter 13 and quadrats were spaced every 3 meters along the transect 

beginning at meter 8. At Skull Valley, transects were spaced every 8 meters beginning at meter 

7.5 while quadrats were spaced every 3 meters along the transect beginning at the 6 meter mark. 

In 2007, data will be collected from both year 1 and year 2 plots for a total of 3000 quadrats per 

site. 

Data were collected in June 2006 using 0.25m2 quadrats. Within each 0.25m2 quadrat, density 

was determined for all species including those that were seeded. Percent cover for crested 

wheatgrass, cheatgrass, Sandberg bluegrass, and all other perennial species was estimated 

ocularly using modified Daubenmire cover classes. Nested frequency was used for cheatgrass, 

annual weeds, and crested wheatgrass seedlings. The number of mature crested wheatgrass 

seedheads and average length per frame was also measured. 

We collected soil in June 2006 to determine the potential seedbank for our study sties. Within 

each block we took ten, 1-in3

 soil samples in each treatment, grew the samples in a greenhouse 

and counted the number of seedlings that emerged. This will be repeated in June 2007. 

Data Analysis: 

Data relating to crested wheatgrass control were analyzed separately from data relating to 

revegetation success. Crested wheatgrass control variables included: mature crested wheatgrass 

(density, cover, number of seed heads, average length in centimeters of seed heads, and the 

number of seed heads X length of average seed heads); crested wheatgrass seedling (density and 

frequency); mature Sandberg bluegrass (density and cover); residual perennial grasses, not 

including Sandberg bluegrass (density and cover); cheatgrass (density, frequency, and cover); 

and annual weeds, including cheatgrass (density and frequency). Mature Sandberg bluegrass 

was analyzed as a separate variable within the crested wheatgrass control analysis due to the 

quantity found at the sites. Revegetation success variables were based on density of seeded 

species which included: drill seeded grasses, broadcast seeded Sandberg bluegrass, drill seeded 

grasses plus broadcast seeded Sandberg bluegrass, total forbs, total seeded grasses plus total 

forbs, total shrubs, and total seeded species. 

97
We used Proc Mixed in SAS (SAS Institute 1996) to determine significant treatment effects and 

interactions. The analysis factors were site (Lookout Pass vs. Skull Valley), block (1-5), 

treatments (undisturbed, partial control mechanical, full control mechanical, partial control 

herbicide, full control herbicide), and seeding (seeded vs. unseeded), with site considered fixed 

and both block and treatment considered random affects. Data were arcsin transformed to 

normalize the data. Differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. 

Project Status: 

Results 

Crested wheatgrass control. Mechanical treatments were more effective than herbicide 

in reducing mature crested wheatgrass cover (Fig. 1A). Compared to control plots, two-way 

disking (full control mechanical) decreased wheatgrass cover by 66.5% while one-way disking 

(partial control mechanical) decreased wheatgrass cover by 49.1% (P < 0.05). Compared to the 

control plots, full control herbicide (3.2 L/ha) reduced mature crested wheatgrass cover by 43.3% 

while the partial control herbicide (1.1 L/ha) reduced mature crested wheatgrass cover by only 

3.7%. Differences between the full vs. partial control herbicide treatments on mature crested 

wheatgrass cover were significant (P < 0.05; Fig. 1A). 

The treatments were not significantly different (P>0.05) in reducing mature crested 

wheatgrass density at the Lookout Pass site. However, at the Skull Valley site, full control 

mechanical reduced mature crested wheatgrass density by 57% compared to its density on 

undisturbed plots (P < 0.05; Fig. 1B). Herbicide treatments did not reduce mature wheatgrass 

density at either site. 

 Crested wheatgrass seedling density was similar in all treatment plots at the Skull Valley 

site (P > 0.05; Fig. 1C). At the Lookout Pass site, partial control herbicide reduced seedling 

density 7.5% compared to its density on undisturbed plots. The full control herbicide increased 

seedling density 32.6% compared to seedling density on the undisturbed plots. 

Weed invasion. Skull Valley had an abundance of cheatgrass when the study began. 

Following treatment, cheatgrass comprised 92% of the total weed composition at Skull Valley 

and only 11% at Lookout Pass. There appeared to by a trend of greater weed invasion at both 

sites in the mechanical treatments where disturbance was high (Fig. 1D). Areas treated with 

herbicide had lower densities of annual weeds relative to mechanically treated plots; however, 

these differences were only significant between partial control herbicide treatments compared to 

the partial or full mechanical treatments at Skull Valley. 

Revegetation success. None of the crested wheatgrass control treatments affected seeded 

species emergence (Fig. 1E). There was greater emergence of seeded species at Lookout Pass 

compared to Skull Valley. This is likely due to higher precipitation at Lookout Pass. At both 

sites, seeded grasses had greater emergence than either forbs or shrubs (Fig.1F). Species 

encountered most frequently were drill-seeded grasses. Of the species that were broadcast, 

Sandberg bluegrass and Lewis flax were most common. Shrubs were encountered rarely during 

data collection in June but seedlings of Wyoming big sagebrush and western yarrow were noted 

in the plots in October. 

Timeline 

Data will be collected in June of 2007 on year 1 and year 2 blocks. Data collected will be as 

described for 2006. 

98
Technology Transfer: 

Hulet, A., B.A. Roundy, B. Jessop, J. Coleman. 2007. Diversification of crested wheatgrass 

stands in Utah. Society for Range Management Annual Meeting, 10-15 February, Reno/Sparks, 

NV. 

Management Applications: 

This research will help land managers to identify and implement effective ways to control 

crested wheatgrass and establish native species while minimizing weed invasion. Managers will 

also be provided with germination and survival rates of native species used in this study which 

will help in developing successful seed mixes. 

99
100
Time Period: Calendar year 2006 

Project Title: Wet Thermal Time Modeling of Seedling Establishment 

Project Location: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Bruce A. Roundy 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

275 WIDB Brigham Young University 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.8137, Fax: 801.422.0090 

bruce_roundy@byu.edu 

Val Anderson 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

275 WIDB Brigham Young University 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422-3527, Fax: 801.422.0090 

val_anderson@byu.edu 

Brad Jessop 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

275 WIDB Brigham Young University 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.3177, Fax: 801.422.0090 

bdjessop@hotmail.com 

Jennifer Coleman 

Department of Plant and Animal Sciences 

275 WIDB Brigham Young University 

Provo, UT 84602 

801.422.8646, Fax: 801.422.0090 

mossytree@byu.edu 

Reporting for work funded, in part, by both the USDI Bureau of Land Management Great Basin 

Native Plant Selection and Increase Project and undergraduate mentoring funds, Brigham Young 

University. 

Project Description: 

Seedling emergence can be broken down into four temperature influenced stages: 1) dormancy 

loss, 2) germination, 3) pre-emergence growth, 4) emergence (Vleeshouwers and Kropff 2000). 

Much research has been done on dormancy loss of range species and is not included in this study 

(Allen et al. 2007). Temperature and presence of moisture are the most important environmental 

conditions causing germination, pre-emergence growth and emergence. Germination, preemergence growth and emergence models using thermal accumulation have been successfully 

101
developed for many weed and crop species (Vleeshouwers and Kropff, 2000; Grundy 2003; 

Forcella 2000). Thermal accumulation is based on the assumption that the plant or seed requires 

a certain amount of time (measured in degree days) above a base temperature and below a 

maximum temperature where enzymatic activity ceases in order to reach a certain life stage 

(Trudgill et al. 2005). Models that have assumed that the seed progresses towards germination 

and emergence only when water is available have been more accurate in predicting emergence 

than strictly thermal models (Forcella et al. 2000). 

 

Models based on temperature and a soil moisture threshold will be used to predict the 

germination rate, pre-emergence growth and survivability of 11 different species or cultivars 

commonly used for fire rehabilitation seeding, in addition to 3 collections of the invasive weed, 

Bromus tectorum. Each wet thermal accumulation model was based on germination rates 

determined through constant temperature germination trials. These germination rates were used 

to predict species germination with three fluctuating-temperature regimes based on spring soil 

temperatures in sagebrush-dominated communities of Tintic Valley, Utah. In addition, seedbags 

of 6 of the 14 species/cultivars (Table 1) were buried in a randomized block design at two sites in 

central Utah (Fig.1). Seedbag germination was compared to model predicted germination using 

hourly seedbed temperatures and water potentials measured on site. Small plots at the field sites 

were also seeded with these species (Table 1). Predicted and actual germination were compared 

to emergence and survival data in the small plots. 

Project Status: 

Germination 

Model Development: 

Percent and rate of germination are the main factors in determining percent and rate of 

emergence in non-dormant seeds (Forcella 2000; Vleeshouwers and Kropff 2000). In order to 

determine the field germination rate, we first determined the relationship between germination 

and temperature for each species by conducting germination trials at seven constant temperatures 

(5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35°C) in incubation chambers. We created thermal accumulation 

models of 14 species/cultivars: Linum perenne, Linum lewisii, Lupinus argenteus, Enceliopsis 

nudicaulis, Agropyron desertorum, Achillea millefolium (Eagle and white), Elymus elymoides,

Agropyron cristatum, Pseudoroegneria spicata (Anatone), Elymus wawawaiensis (Secar), and

Bromus tectorum. Populations of Bromus tectorum were collected from Spanish Fork, Skull 

Valley and Lookout Pass, UT. The time non-dormant seeds of each species required to reach 

25% and 50% germination was determined for each constant temperature. We computed the 

hourly germination rate each temperature produced from the number of days to 25% and 50% 

germination. The germination rate is the slope of a curve that best fits the 1/days to 25% or 50% 

germination. Curves were generated three different ways: a part linear and part polynomial 

curve, simple polynomial and Table Curve 2D-generated (a curve-fitting program) polynomial 

models. These curves were the basis of the thermal accumulation model. 

Germination rates were found to be highest at 25°C for most species. Bromus tectorum

populations experienced the fastest germination rates at 20°C. Highly variable results were 

obtained for all of the species at the 35°C constant temperature trial and so these data were not 

included in the thermal accumulation model. 

102
 Model Verification: 

Diurnal Curves: 

Incubation chambers were programmed with 3 different fluctuating temperature curves based on 

spring temperatures in sagebrush-dominated communities in Tintic Valley, Utah. Analysis 

comparing the predicted with actual germination rate is not yet complete for all 8 species, but the 

thermal accumulation model seemed to slightly overestimate the time to 50% germination for 

each curve. 

 

Seedbags: 

The wet thermal model was tested in the field at two sites located in north-central Utah, near 

White Rocks and the Cedar Mountains in Toole County. Skull Valley is located at 5000’ with 

annual precipitation ranging from 8 to 12” and slope of about 0%. The average annual air 

temperature is 8-10°C. Soils are a Medburn fine sandy loam. The Lookout Pass site has an 

elevation of 5500’ and slope of about 0%. The annual average for precipitation and air 

temperature is 10-12” and 7-11°C. Soils are classified as a Taylors flat loam. Both sites were 

dominated by crested wheatgrass (A. cristatum). Sagebrush communities originally dominated 

these areas. 

Four small blocks were established at each site. Each of these small blocks was divided into two 

blocks for the each year replication. Each year replication had an area designated for seedbag 

burial and seeded plots. Thermocouples measuring soil temperature and gypsum blocks 

measuring soil moisture were buried at three depths (1-3, 15-16 and 28-30 cm deep) in each 

small block. These sensors were attached to microloggers that calculated their hourly averages. 

Precipitation and air temperature were also measured on site. 

Table 1. Species seeded in seedbags and small plots.

PLS 

Seeding 

Rate

(lb/ha)

Bulk 

Common 

Name 

Seeding 

Rate

(lb/ha)

Year Species Cultivar Source Collected 

Linum perenne blue flax Appar UDWR-commercially 

grown

 2003 33 36 

Achillea 

millefolium 

eagle yarrow N/A Eastern Washington 2003 33 50 

Agropyron 

cristatum 

hycrest crested 

wheatgrass 

Hycrest 2003 33 47 

Pseudoroegneria 

spicata 

bluebunch 

wheatgrass 

Anatone UDWR-commercially 

grown 

 2003 33 36 

Elymus elymoides squirreltail Sanpete Sanpete Co., UT 2003 33 47 

Bromus tectorum cheatgrass N/A Skull Valley, UT 2005 38 

Bromus tectorum cheatgrass N/A Lookout Pass, UT 2005 38 

103
Nylon mesh seedbags of each species were buried in fall 2005 (Table 2). For Bromus tectorum, 

we only seeded and buried seed that had been collected from that site. 

At least one seedbag per species was collected from each block during 

a retrieval. After retrieving the seedbags, the percent of germinated 

seeds was compared to the model-predicted percent germination (50% 

or 25%) based on the surface soil moisture and water potential. 

Eighteen seedbag retrievals were planted in 2005. By the first 

retrieval date (12/6/05), all species (except A. millefolium) reached 

50% germination, so only 2 retrieval dates were analyzed from this 

planting. The second was done to see the affects of overwintering on 

germination. Five seed bag retrievals were planted when the ground 

thawed during February of the following year. Two more retrievals 

were planted that spring. So far, nine seedbag retrievals have been 

compared with model predictions. 

Our thermal accumulation model assumed that seeds accumulated 

degree days only when the soil was wet, or when the gypsum block 

read the soil water potential as above -1.5 MPa. We analyzed two different methods of 

accumulating degree-days for each seedbag retrieval: (1) thermal accumulation started over each 

wet period or (2) thermal accumulation was summed for all wet periods. 

At Lookout Pass, summed and individual wet period thermal accumulations were equally 

accurate in predicting germination. At both sites, the model was able to predict whether 

seedbags would reach 25% or 50% germination for all species except A. millefolium. We 

conducted a light requirement experiment and verified that A. millefolium has a light requirement 

that would not have been fulfilled in the seedbags. Bromus tectorum germination on both sites 

was accurately predicted in every retrieval. Only one seedbag retrieval, 2/27/06-4/16/06, was 

inaccurately predicted by the model for the other species at Lookout Pass. 

At Skull Valley, (a drier and warmer site), B. tectorum and P. spicata germination was predicted 

with 100% accuracy by both thermal accumulation methods. In A. cristatum, E. elymoides and 

L. perenne, summed thermal accumulation was more accurate to predict germination than 

individual wet period thermal accumulation. The thermal accumulation model underestimated 

germination during the time that the area experienced freezing temperatures. When the data 

were closely examined, short freezing periods when the gypsum blocks read the soil as dry, were 

responsible for much of this inaccuracy. When summed thermal accumulation was inaccurate as 

well, it showed the same trend that was seen in the incubation diurnal trials. This suggests that 

fluctuating temperatures not only accelerate dormancy and priming of seeds (Allen et al. 2007; 

Vleeshouwers and Kropff 2000; Forcella et al. 2000) but can also increase germination rate. 

 

Buried: Retrieved: 

10/15/05 12/6/05 

1/19/06 

3/16 

3/28 

4/11 

4/25 

2/27/06 

5/10 & 5/11 

3/28/06 4/11/06 

4/11/06 4/25/06 

11/9/06 

11/30/06 

10/24/06 

2/21/07 

2/21/07 

Table 2. Seedbag burial 

and retrieval dates. 

104
Emergence and Survival: Figure 2 & 3. Percent germination in spring 2006 seedbag retrievals. 

 

Model Development: 

Root growth experiments to predict preemergence growth and survival capability of the 

different species will be conducted in spring 2007. 

odel Verificiation: 

ned three rows of 6 (1 plot 

as 

5, 

nd 

ermination rates (Figs. 2, 3) and emergence 

ost 

ly 

igher mortality rates occurred at Lookout Pass for all species due to lack of precipitation events 

M

Each small block contai

for each species) 1.2 x 1.8m plots. Each row w

given one of three crested wheatgrass control 

treatments: (1) full control herbicide, (2) partial 

control herbicide and (3) undisturbed. Round-up

was applied at a rate of 44 oz/ac. for the full 

control and 16 oz/ac. for the partial control 

treatment. Small plots were seeded on Oct 1

2005 and on Oct 24 (Skull Valley) and 25

(Lookout Pass) in 2006. Seedling density a

survival were monitored in spring and summer

2006. 

High g

numbers (Fig. 4) occurred on both sites. Seedling 

mortality was higher for perennial grasses (68%-96%) than for B. tectorum (55%-65%). Alm

all forbs seeded on both sites died (94-99%). Agropyron cristatum (85% and 68%) had slight

less mortality than the native grasses (P. spicata 80% and 79%, E. elymoides 96% and 69%). 

H

in July and August. 

Skull Valley Seedbag Germination

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

2/27-3/16 2/27-3/28 3/28-4/11 2/27-4/11 4/11-4/25 2/27-4/25 2/27-5/8

Date Planted - Date Retrieved

Germination (%)

Yarrow

Crested 

Cheatgrass

Squirreltail

Blue flax

Bluebunch

Lookout Pass Seedbag Germination

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

2/27-3/16 2/27-3/28 3/28-4/11 2/27-4/11 4/11-4/25 2/27-4/25 2/27-5/10

Date Planted - Date Retrieved

Germination (%)

Yarrow

Crested 

Cheatgrass

Squirreltail

Blue flax

Bluebunch

Figures 4 & 5. Number of live seedlings per m of row recorded after notable emergence began (mid- March 2006) to the end of summer. 

Forb Emergence and Survival 2006

0

50

100

150

200

24-Mar 13-Apr 3-May 23-May 12-Jun 2-Jul 22-Jul 11-Aug 31-Aug

# seedlings/m

LP Acmi

SV Acmi

LP Lipe

SV Lipe

Grass Emergence and Survival 2006

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

24-Mar 13-Apr 3-May 23-May 12-Jun 2-Jul 22-Jul 11-Aug 31-Aug

# seedlings/m

LP Agcr

SV Agcr

LP Brte

SV Brte

LP Elel

SV Elel

LP Pssp

SV Pssp

105
Research 2007: 

This coming year, data related to thermal accumulation models for species not seeded in seedbags or 

small plots will be analyzed. Pre-emergence growth will be modeled by conducting root-growth 

experiments at the seven constant temperatures and the three different diurnal curves for all species 

and cultivars. Model predictions of the three diurnal curves of all species will be reanalyzed using 

the models created by Table Curve 2D. Soil moisture and temperature data for Fall 2006 and Spring 

2007 will be downloaded and used to compare predicted and actual germination. Seedbag retrievals 

will continue throughout this spring. Seedling density counts in spring and summer of 2007 will be 

conducted on small plots of both years. A model converting air temperature and precipitation data to 

soil moisture and temperature will be developed. Fluctuating and cold temperature germination 

experiments of the six seeded species will be conducted. 

Literature Cited: 

Allen, P.S., Benech-Arnold, R.L., Batlla, D. and Bradford, K.J. 2007. Modeling of seed 

dormancy. pp. 72-112 in Bradford, K.J.; Nonogaki, H. (Eds) Seed Development, 

Dormancy and Germination. Oxford, UK, Blackwell Publishing. 

Bradford, K.J. 2002. Applications of hydrothermal time to quantifying and modeling seed 

germination and dormancy. Weed Sci. 50:248-260. 

Forcella, F. 1993. Seedling emergence model for velvetleaf. Agron. J. 85: 929-933. 

Forcella, F., R. L. Benech-Arnold, R. Sa ́nchez, and C. M. Ghersa. 2000. Modeling seedling 

emergence. Field Crops Res. 67:123–139. 

Grundy, A.C. 2003. Predicting weed emergence: a review of approaches and future challenges. 

Weed Research 43:1-11. 

Masin, R., Zuin, M.C., Archer, D.W., Forcella, F. and Zanin, G. 2005. WeedTurf: a predictive 

model to aid control of annual summer weeds in turf. Weed Science 53:193–201. 

Roman, E. S., S. D. Murphy, and C. J. Swanton. 2000. Simulation of Chenopodium album 

seedling emergence. Weed Sci. 48:217–224. 

Trudgill, D.L., Honek, A. Li, D. and N.M. Van Straalen. 2005. Thermal time-concepts and 

utility. Annals of Applied Biology 146:1-14. 

Vleeshouwers, L.M. and Kropff, M.J. 2000. Modelling field emergence patterns in arable 

weeds. New Phytologist 148:445-457. 

Wang, R., Bai, Y. and Tanino K. 2006. Seedling emergence of winterfat (Krascheninnikovia 

lanata (Pursh) A.D.J. Meeuse & Smit) in the field and its prediction using the 

hydrothermal time model. J. of Arid Environments 64:37–53. 

Management Applications: 

For many range species, the environmental conditions required to germinate, establish and 

survive have not been quantified. Many laboratory studies have been able to predict different 

aspects of seedling establishment based on environmental conditions (Forcella, 1993; 

Vleeshouwers 1997; Roman et al. 2000), but there are few that have validated their models with 

actual field observations (Vleeshouwers and Kropff 2000; Forcella et al. 2000; Wang et al. 

2006). Determining the relationship between environmental conditions and a species’ 

development and survival rate will allow managers to better select range species that will 

establish in a revegetation site. Models predicting the development rate of different weed 

species would cue managers to the best time to seed or apply herbicide (Masin et al. 2005; 

Grundy 2003; Vleeshouwers and Kropff 2000). Non-chemical control methods (mechanical 

106
treatments) could be timed when weed species are most vulnerable (Grundy 2003; Vleeshouwers 

and Kropff 2000). Reduced emergence of seeded species due to weed competition for a site 

could be estimated based on weed versus seeded species emergence timing (Vleeshouwers and 

Kropff 2000). Both 2005 and 2006 were relatively wet years and the model was able to predict 

the high germination and subsequent emergence that occurred. The high mortality of those 

seedlings shows that selecting species for areas that fulfill their germination and emergence 

requirements does not guarantee their establishment. But the thermal accumulation model can be 

used to compare the potential emergence of different revegetation species under a range of actual 

seedbed temperature and moisture conditions. This should help avoid seeding species with little 

likelihood of success and also help to select plant materials that have the highest probability to 

emerge. A model that can predict their survivability in summer temperature and moisture 

conditions is also needed. 

107
Project Title: Reestablishing Native Plant Diversity in Crested Wheatgrass 

 Stands in the Great Basin 

Project Location: USDA ARS Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Burns, Oregon 

Principal Investigator and Contact Information: 

 Jane Mangold, Ecologist 

USDA-ARS/Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center 

67826-A Hwy 205, Burns, OR 97720 

541.573.4073, Fax: 541.573.3042

jane.mangold@oregonstate.edu 

Cooperators: 

 USDA-ARS/Pacific West Area, 800 Buchanan Street, Albany, CA 94710 

USDA-FS-RMRS, 240 West Prospect, Fort Collins, CO 0526-2098 

Oregon State University, Dept. of Range Ecology and Management 

202 Strand Agriculture Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331-2218 

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, 36391 Sodhouse Lane, 

Princeton, OR 97720 

 USDA-NRCS, Aberdeen Plant Materials Center, P.O. Box 296 

 Aberdeen, ID 83210 

Project Description: 

This project investigates the feasibility of increasing native plant diversity in established crested 

wheatgrass stands in the Great Basin. The study location is 80 km south of Burns, OR, on the 

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in a stand of crested wheatgrass approximately 25 years old. 

Objectives include: 1) determine the effect of crested wheatgrass control methodologies and 

revegetation on crested wheatgrass density and cover, 2) determine the effect of crested 

wheatgrass control methodologies and revegetation on establishment of native species, 3) 

determine the effect of crested wheatgrass control methodologies and revegetation on cheatgrass 

density and cover, and 4) determine the effects of crested wheatgrass control methodologies and 

native plant establishment on the seed bank and on soil nitrogen and water content. 

Procedures included varying the method and intensity of crested wheatgrass control, followed by 

seeding a mix of native shrubs, grasses, and forbs. Control strategies were tested in a 

randomized block, split-plot design with control strategy and intensity as whole plots and seeded 

vs. unseeded as split-plots. Control methods included mechanical (disking), chemical 

(glyphosate application), or undisturbed (no crested wheatgrass control). Control intensity was 

varied by the number of passes with the disk (partial = one pass, full = two passes) and the rate 

of glyphosate application (partial = quarter rate, full = full rate). Half the plot was seeded and 

half the plot was left unseeded following control treatment. The five treatments (full mechanical 

108
control, partial mechanical control, full chemical control, partial chemical control, undisturbed) 

were replicated across five blocks each year on 0.4-ha (1-acre) plots for a total of approximately 

10 ha (25 acres) treated annually (5 ha (12.5 acres) seeded, 5 ha unseeded). Control and seeding 

treatments were applied 2005 and 2006. 

Surface soil and litter are being collected in the spring and fall of each year and bioassayed for 

seed bank potential of crested wheatgrass, native residuals, seeded species, and cheatgrass. Soil 

sampling occurs twice each year (April and September). Cover and density of unseeded and 

seeded species will be collected in June for 2 years on plots established in 2005 and for 1 year on 

plots established in 2006.

Project Status: 

Accomplishments 2006

Control treatments

Chemical control treatments were applied May 3-8, 2006. Glyphosate was applied at 4.8 l/ha (44 

oz. per acre) for full control or 2.4 l/ha (10 oz. per acre) for partial control using an ATVmounted boom sprayer, delivering 95 l/ha (10 gal/a) water. Conditions were 10.5-16.7  ̊C, wind 

0-10 km/h, and 1-37% relative humidity. Mechanical control treatments were applied May24-

25, 2006 using a tractor-mounted 4.2-m (14-feet) off-set disk with 50-cm (20-inch) disks. 

Seed bank and soil sampling 

Seed bank and soil was collected in Year 1 and Year 2 plots. The seed bank was sampled on 

May 10-11, 2006. Five-50-cm3

 sub-samples were collected from the top 2-cm of soil in each 

plot. Seed bank samples were spread in trays containing sterilized sand in a greenhouse at the 

Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center and monitored for seedling emergence for 6 

weeks. At the end of 6 weeks, a 1000 ppm solution of gibberrellic acid was added to stimulate 

germination of any remaining seeds. Seedling numbers were recorded. Soil was sampled for 

nitrogen and gravimetric water content by collecting 2-cm-diameter soil cores, 15-cm deep. Five 

sub-samples were collected and composited to make one sample per plot. Year 1 plots were 

sampled on April 17 and Year 2 plots were sampled on May 10, 2006. Soil samples were 

weighed before and after drying to determine gravimetric water content and were then sent to 

Central Analytical Lab at Oregon State University for analysis of nitrate-nitrogen and 

ammonium-nitrogen. 

Vegetation sampling 

The following data were collected on June 19-28, 2006, for Year 1 plots (i.e. seeded in fall 

2005): 1) density of crested wheatgrass adult plants, cheatgrass, seeded species, any weedy 

species phenologically competitive with the seeded species, and any other species present; 2) 

cover of crested wheatgrass adult plants, cheatgrass, any significant weedy species, any other 

perennial species that was not seeded, bare ground, litter, and rock; 3) nested frequency of 

crested wheatgrass seedlings, cheatgrass, and any significant weedy species, and 4) number of 

crested wheatgrass seed heads arising from culms of adult plants and average length (cm) of seed 

heads. 

Vegetation was sampled along five 18-m long transects placed 10-m apart and perpendicular to 

the seeded rows. Along each transect, 0.25-m2 (0.5-m x 0.5-m) frames were used to sample 

109
vegetation. Percent cover was visually estimated using the Daubenmire cover class method and 

density of individuals was counted in 10 frames, 2-m apart, along each transect for a total of 50 

frames per plot. The point at which to begin sampling on along transects was randomly 

determined. Distinction between bluebunch wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass, and bottlebrush 

squirreltail was difficult and therefore these three species were grouped into seeded perennial 

grasses. The other seeded species could be identified and thus were recorded individually. 

Several weeks following sampling (at seed head maturity), samples of adult crested wheatgrass 

were collected across Year 1 plots. The length and number of seeds per seed head were 

recorded. This information was coupled with the number of crested seed heads arising from 

culms at the time of sampling (see 4 above) and used to estimate aerial seedbank of crested 

wheatgrass within each plot in seeds/ha by regressing number of seed heads per cm of seed head 

against average length of seed head. 

Seeding

Year 2 plots were seeded on October 30-31, 2006. Plots were seeded using a modified Truax 

Rough Rider no-till drill. Two seed mixes were used (same seed as in 2005), one large-seeded 

and the other small-seeded. Because of a potential seed quality issue (4% germination TZ), new 

Wyoming big sagebrush seed was purchased and added to the seed mix. Large seeds were put in 

a cool-season box while small seeds were put in a fluffy seed box. Alternating drops were used 

from the cool-season and fluffy boxes. The cool-season box fed the seeding disks, and the fluffy 

box dropped seeds onto the soil surface where they were rolled over by Brillion wheels. The 

large-seeded mix included four-wing saltbush, Lewis flax, Munro globemallow, bluebunch 

wheatgrass, bottlebrush squirreltail, and Indian ricegrass. The small-seeded mix included 

Wyoming big sagebrush, white-stemmed rabbitbrush, western yarrow, and Sandberg bluegrass. 

Species, kind/variety, commercial source and seeding rates are listed in Table 1. Seeding 

conditions were approximately 15 ̊C, sunny, breezy, and dry. 

Data analysis/Preliminary Results

Vegetation data from Year 1 plots was entered into Excel, compiled, and analyzed with SAS 

statistical software using a split-plot analysis of variance (ANOVA). Control treatments 

generally did not decrease density of crested wheatgrass below that of the untreated control (Fig. 

1). The full mechanical control resulted in an increase in crested wheatgrass (Fig. 1). Seeded 

species density was highest in those plots that received mechanical control (Fig. 2). Cheatgrass 

density increased when subjected to the partial control mechanical treatment (Figure 3). 

Plans for 2007

Sampling 

Vegetation cover and density of Year 1 and Year 2 plots will be sampled during June using the 

same methods as in 2006. Seed bank and soil nitrogen and gravimetric water content will be 

sampled using the same methods as in 2005 and 2006. Seed bank and soil samples will be 

collected in April and September. 

110
Data analysis

Vegetation, seed bank, and soil nitrogen and gravimetric water content data will be entered into 

Excel, compiled, and analyzed using SAS. 

Final report

The final report, master’s thesis, and a manuscript for journal submittal will be prepared 

following sampling and data analysis. 

Management Applications: 

Information obtained from this study will provide land managers with best practices for restoring 

native plant diversity in existing crested wheatgrass monocultures. Results will also further our 

understanding of the feasibility of using “assisted succession” for restoring landscapes currently 

dominated by cheatgrass. 

Products:

Publications Mangold, J. 2006. Restoring native plant diversity in crested wheatgrass 

stands. Malheur Musings 3(2):4. 

Presentations Increasing native diversity in crested wheatgrass stands. Invited 

presentation at Society for Range Management—Idaho Chapter. Boise, 

ID. January 17, 2007. 

Technology Transfer None at this time. 

111
 Table 1. Seeded species, including their origin and commercial source, and seeding rates. 

Species Kind/ 

Variety 

Commercial 

Source 

Seeding Rate 

(lb. PLS/acre) 

Wyoming big sagebrush 

(Artemisia tridentata wyomingensis) Maple Leaf 0.20 

Fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens) L&H Seed 1.0 

White-stemmed rabbitbrush 

(Chrysothamnus nauseosus albicaulis) Maple Leaf 0.25 

Lewis flax (Linum lewisii) ‘Appar’ Maple Leaf 0.75 

Western yarrow 

(Achillea millefolium) Eagle Landmark Seed 0.20 

Munro globemallow 

(Sphaeralcea munroana) Maple Leaf 0.50 

Bluebunch wheatgrass 

(Pseudoroegneria spicata) Anatone Landmark Seed 3.0 

Sandberg bluegrass Mountain 

(Poa secunda) Home Landmark Seed 0.75 

Squirreltail (Elymus elymoides 

californica) 

Toe Jam 

Creek Landmark Seed 2.0 

Indian ricegrass 

(Achnatherum hymenoides) ‘Nezpar’ Landmark Seed 2.0 

112
 

Figure 1. Treatment effect on density of crested wheatgrass. FCH = full control herbicide, FCM 

= full control mechanical, PCH = partial control herbicide, PCM = partial control mechanical, 

and UD = undisturbed control. Error bars represent ±1 SE. 

Figure 2. Treatment effect on density of seeded species. FCH = full control herbicide, FCM = 

full control mechanical, PCH = partial control herbicide, PCM = partial control mechanical, and 

UD = undisturbed control. Error bars represent ±1 SE. 

Figure 3. Treatment effect on density of cheatgrass. FCH = full control herbicide, FCM = full 

control mechanical, PCH = partial control herbicide, PCM = partial control mechanical, and UD 

= undisturbed control. Error bars represent ±1 SE. 

` Treatment

FCH FCM PCH PCM UD

Crested wheatgrass density (plants/m2

)

0

2

4

6

8

10

a

c

ab ab b

FCH FCM PCH PCM

Seeded species density (plants/m2

)

UD

0

10

20

30

40

50

ab

b

ab

c

a

Treatment

Treatment

FCH FCM PCH PCM UD

Cheatgrass density (tillers/m2

)

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

b

a

b

c

b

113
Project Title: Revegetation Equipment Catalog Project

Project Location: College Station, Texas

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

Harold Wiedemann

4000 Stony Creek Lane, College Station, TX 77845 

979.690.8685, (cell) 979.255.1375 

h.wiedemann@verizon.net 

Project Description: Prepare and publish an equipment catalog describing types and operations 

of equipment designed or adapted for rangeland vegetation manipulation, wildlife habitat 

improvement, and disturbed land rehabilitation. Categories include all types of implements used 

in brush and weed control, site preparation, seeding and planting, seed collection and processing, 

and related equipment such as tractors, all-terrain vehicles, global positioning systems, trailers, 

and miscellaneous items. Photographs, special features, and suppliers (including website 

addresses and other contact information) will be listed for each type of equipment. The final 

product will be a web-based publication allowing for updates and new advances in technology. 

It will likely be used throughout the United States and internationally. 

Project Status: The Revegetation Equipment Catalog text was completed and placed on the 

World Wide Web. It was officially announced at the Rangeland Technology and Equipment 

Council (RTEC) meeting during the Society for Range Management Annual Meeting in Ft. 

Worth, Texas in February 2005. It has been well received nationally and internationally, and in 

2006 it received a Blue Ribbon Educational Website Award from the American Society of 

Agricultural and Biological Engineers. 

The catalog has been publicized by a poster and live laptop demonstrations in a tradeshow booth 

and laptop demonstrations at RTEC programs at the Society for Range Management annual 

meetings in Vancouver, Canada and Reno, NV. A poster presentation and demonstration was 

given at the Soil & Water Conservation Society annual meeting in Keystone, Colorado. The 

tradeshow displays have resulted in several companies wanting to list new equipment in the 

website. 

 

Our publicity and inquires from search engines such a Google has resulted in significant use of 

the catalog. Tracking software logged 102,561 visitors in 2006. The United States accounts for 

91% of the visitors while the remaining 9% are international. The top five states are Texas 

(7.4%), California (6.2%), Virginia (5.6%), Colorado (3.2%), and New York (2.6%). 

The catalog is being used in restoration classes at Brigham Young and Oregon State universities 

and possibly others. Restoration classes taught at the BLM National Training Center in Phoenix 

have utilized the catalog. Information about equipment and its use has been included in 

handbooks by the Florida NRCS and Colorado Department of Fish and Wildlife. Rangeland 

West http://rangelandswest.org, the BLM Great Basin Restoration Initiative 

http://www.fire.blm.gov/gbri/links.html, the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase 

114
Project http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/boise/research/shrub/greatbasin.shtml, and Society for Range 

Management http://www.rangelands.org each have a link to the catalog’s website. Additionally, 

several requests for special information have been received from ranchers and government field 

personnel. 

There have been several new equipment additions and a few minor corrections. This 

demonstrates the advantages of the book being published on the web and the author’s proximity 

to the Biological & Agricultural Engineering Department at Texas A&M University who are 

currently hosting the website. 

Products

A. Publications: Wiedemann, H.T., Nancy Shaw, Mike Pellant. 2006. 

Revegetation Equipment Catalog. 2006 Conference Abstract 

Book, p 68. Soil and Water Conservation Society annual meeting, 

Keystone, Colorado, July 22-26, 2006. 

B. Presentations: Wiedemann, H.T. 2006. Revegetation Equipment Catalog. Poster 

presentation and website demonstration. Society for Range 

Management, Tradeshow, Vancouver, Canada, February 12-17. 

115
 Project Title: The Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies 

 Cooperative Native Seed Increase Program 

Project Location: Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington 

Principal Investigators and Contact Information: 

 Ann DeBolt, Botanist 

USDA-FS-RMRS, 322 East Front Street, Suite 401 

Boise, ID 83702 

208.373.4366, Fax 208.373.4391 

adebolt@fs.fed.us 

Chet Boruff, Chief Executive Officer 

Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) 

1601 52nd Avenue, Suite 1, Moline, IL 61265 

309.736.0120, Fax 309.736.0115 

cboruff@aosca.org 

Project Description: 

In May 2003, the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) executive vice 

president invited the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project to submit a 

proposal to work through their national organization towards the development of a multi-state 

approach for increasing native forb seed supplies for Great Basin restoration. The program 

involves distribution of wildland-collected seed to growers via the Foundation Seed Programs of 

states producing seed for the Great Basin (Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and 

surrounding areas). Initial emphasis was on species not included on the principal research list, 

but research species were added to the list of offerings in 2005 to bolster efforts to “jump-start” 

their increased availability as well. To implement this program, RMRS and AOSCA drafted and 

signed an agreement in 2003. The agreement was revised and funding was appropriated in 2006 

to continue the program’s efforts for another 3 years. 

Project Status: 

Seed was cleaned, tested and source-identified prior to distribution to state Foundation Seed 

Program managers and growers (Table 1). Table 1 and the following narrative provide additional 

details as to the program’s status and 2006 seed lot distributions. 

- Seed lots distributed in 2006:

o Chaenactis douglasii (Douglas false-yarrow) – Northern Basin and Range 

(Ecoregion 80 a); sole source from Owyhee County, Idaho (3700-4500 feet). 

Distributed to central Idaho grower. 

o Crepis acuminata (Tapertip hawksbeard) – Central Basin and Range (Ecoregion 

13); sole source from Eureka County, Nevada (6,400 feet). Distributed to 

southern Idaho grower. 

o Erigeron pumilus (Shaggy fleabane) – Snake River Plain (Ecoregion 12 a); sole 

source from Owyhee County, Idaho (4400 feet). Distributed to central Idaho 

grower. 

116
o Lomatium dissectum (Fernleaf biscuitroot) – Northern Basin and Range 

(Ecoregion 80 a, e, f) source; pooled from 6 sites between 3,147 and 4,452 feet, 

from 3 counties in Idaho and Oregon. Distributed to northern Utah grower. 

o Penstemon acuminatus (Sand penstemon) –Snake River Plain (Ecoregion 12 a, h, 

j) source; pooled from 13 sites on sandy soil between 2,330 and 3,361 feet, from 6 

counties in Idaho and Oregon. Distributed to eastern Washington grower. 

o Penstemon deustus (Hotrock penstemon) – Snake River Plain (Ecoregion 12 f, h) 

source; pooled from 3 sites between 2,829 and 3,320 feet. Distributed to southern 

Idaho grower. 

o Penstemon speciosus (Sagebrush penstemon) – Snake River Plain (Ecoregion 12 

j/a); sole source from Payette County, Idaho (2,500 feet). Distributed to eastern 

Washington grower. 

o Penstemon speciosus (Sagebrush penstemon) – Northern Basin and Range 

(Ecoregion 80 a, f) source; pooled from 4 sites between 3,400 and 4,292 feet. 

Distributed to southern Idaho grower. 

In spring 2007, we will distribute several species to a grower in eastern Oregon for spring 

sowing. Species will include those that do not require a long prechill treatment. 

Meetings and Field Tours

DeBolt: Attended the Annual Field Day at Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment 

Station, Ontario, OR (July 13, 2006). Gave short overview presentation on GBNPSIP and the 

Cooperative Native Seed Increase Program. 

DeBolt: Attended a tour of Pacific Northwest Seed Growers. June 2006. 

117
Table 1. Cooperative Native Seed Increase Program accessions distributed to growers (March 2004 through November 2006). Program Manager 

Name and State Species Lot Number and Ecoregion Seed 

Origin 

Weight 

(g) 

Distribution Date 

Thurber needlegrass AchThu2-BSE-03 (Snake River Plain) NV 13.6 Aug-04 

Kathy Stewart-Williams (ID) 

Sulfur buckwheat ERUM U9-03 (Central Basin & Range) NV 99 Aug-04 Sagebrush penstemon PenSpe9A-BSE-03 (N Basin & Range) OR 212 Aug-04 Fernleaf biscuitroot LomDis56-BSE-05 (Snake River Plain) ID 350 Dec-05 Sagebrush penstemon Pooled PESP (N Basin & Range) ID, OR 375 Oct-06 Tapertip hawksbeard CRAC U36-04 (Central Basin & Range) NV 454 Oct-06 Hotrock penstemon Pooled PEDE (Snake River Plain) ID 908 Oct-06 

Gary Cross (NV) 

Yellow beeplant CLLU U1-01 (Central Basin & Range) NV 300 Aug-04 Oval-leaf buckwheat EROV U9-02 (Central Basin & Range) NV 10 Aug-04 

Arrowleaf balsamroot BASA U32-02 (Central Basin & Range) NV 735 Mar-04 Tapertip hawksbeard CRAC U10-01 (Central Basin & Range) NV 110 Mar-04 

Stanford Young (UT) Wyeth buckwheat EriHer1-BSE-03 (Snake River Plain) ID 43 Mar-04 

Fernleaf biscuitroot *LomDis18-BSE-03 (Idaho Batholith) ID 488 Mar-04 Fernleaf biscuitroot LODI 11-B7-03 (N Basin & Range) OR 91 Mar-04 

Sagebrush penstemon PenSpe1-BSE-03 (Snake River Plain) ID 92 Mar-04 

Fernleaf biscuitroot Pooled LODI (N Basin & Range) ID, OR 908 Oct-06 

Lee Schweitzer (OR) 

Arrowleaf balsamroot BalSag55-BSE-04 (Snake River Plain) OR 390 Sep-04 Munro globemallow SphMun3-BSE-04 (N Basin & Range) OR 45.2 Sep-04 
Table 1. Cooperative Native Seed Increase Program accessions distributed to growers (March 2004 through November 2006). Program Manager 

Name and State Species Lot Number and Ecoregion Seed 

Origin 

Weight 

(g) 

Distribution Date 

Royal penstemon Pecy1-B6-02 (Snake River Plain) ID 300 Oct-04 Sagebrush penstemon PenSpe43-BSE-06 (N Basin & Range) ID 95 Jan-06 Fernleaf biscuitroot *LomDis18-BSE-03 (Idaho Batholith) ID 454 December 2005 

(redistributed from 

UT to WA) 

Douglas false-yarrow ChaDou1-BSE-05 ID 248 Apr-06 Shaggy fleabane EriPum4-BSE-05 ID 30 Apr-06 Sagebrush penstemon PenSpe35-BSE-05 (Snake River Plain) ID 375 Nov-06 

Jerry Robinson (WA) 

Sand penstemon Pooled PEAC (Snake River Plain) ID, OR 4.1 lbs Nov-06 

* 2006 seed production 
Project Title: Establishment and Maintenance of the Buy-Back 

Program for Certified Seed

Project Location: Utah Crop Improvement Association, Utah State University 

Principle Investigators and Contact Information: 

Stanford Young, Research Professor/Seed Certification Specialist 

Utah Crop Improvement Association 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4855 

435.797.2082, Fax: 435.797.3376 

 Michael Bouck, Field Supervisor 

Utah Crop Improvement Association 

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4855 

435.797.2101, Fax: 435.797.3376 

 michaelb@mendel.usu.edu 

Project Description: 

This project is funded through a Research Joint Venture Agreement between the USFS-RMRS in 

Boise, ID and the Utah Crop Improvement Association (UCIA), initiated in the fall of 2003 and 

renewed with additional funds in the fall of 2004. Seed was distributed using the Buy-back 

option, a mechanism for obtaining a portion of the seed increased by private growers back to the 

UCIA for redistribution to the original and additional seed growers for further seed increase. 

Project Status: 

A synopsis of the Buy-back Program follows (dated January 10, 2007). Table 1 lists forb and 

grass seed acquisitions, distributions, inventory, field status, and seed harvested for species 

germplasms included in the UCIA Stock Seed Buy-back Program from 2002-2006. It is 

expected that in 2007 several additional forbs and grasses will be included in the program. Table 

2 lists the standardized market price for contract negotiations. 

Project Synopsis: 

Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project (GBNPSIP) and Utah Crop 

Improvement Association (UCIA) Stock Seed Buy-back Program, January 10, 2007. This 

program encourages and allows seed growers to benefit economically in a timely manner as an 

incentive to participate in the UCIA Stock Seed Buy-back Program. The program helps 

accelerate the increase in stock seed supplies and ultimately increase seed supplies on the open 

market for commercial revegetation use. 

The purpose of the UCIA Stock Seed Buy-back Program, funded through the GBNPSIP, is: 1) to 

facilitate development of a seed market for specific germplasm accessions and formal germplasm 

releases developed through GBNPSIP; these include all germplasms prior to 2003 and certain 

others assigned through 2006 (Table 1); 2) to reward initial seed growers financially for the risks 

they have assumed to participate in the program; 3) to document germplasm identity through the 

seed increase process by utilizing seed certification protocols; and 4) to increase stock seed 

120
available for potential secondary seed growers. This program is administered through the Utah 

Crop Improvement Association. 

The mechanisms for purchasing stock seed from growers and redistributing it for further increase 

are as follows: 

1. UCIA offers for free or for sale (depending on seed generation and availability) stock 

seed to seed growers. 

2. After harvest of the first seed production year, the grower will be required to return to the 

UCIA (for inventory reserve) up to twice the original amount of stock seed he/she 

received. More may be returned if mutually negotiated. The grower will be compensated 

125% of the standardized market price (SMP, see Table 2) for all seed returned to UCIA. 

SMP will be updated as needed. 

3. UCIA may negotiate to buy all or part of the seed from any subsequent years of seed 

production back from seed grower at 125% SMP. 

4. UCIA offers the grower the option to immediately buy back the seed sold to the UCIA 

(except for the inventory reserve) at 100% SMP. The grower thus realizes an immediate 

25% premium incentive to expand plantings and remain in the program. This seed must 

be planted for seed production and entered into the local seed certification program either 

by original seed grower or another seed grower recruited by the original seed grower. If 

this seed is instead sold commercially, the UCIA reserves the right to recover the 25% 

premium paid for the seed. 

5. All seed offered to the UCIA, bought, or sold shall be certified or certified eligible. 

6. UCIA agrees to pay for shipping and seed analysis costs. Seed purchasing, shipping, and 

seed analysis costs are to be reimbursed to the UCIA through GBNPSIP program funds. 

7. If seed is unconditioned when purchased by the UCIA, the seed grower may be charged 

for conditioning costs, or in certain circumstances these costs may be paid by the UCIA 

and reimbursed by GBNPSIP. 

Notes: 

1. Seed quantity and quality (lbs PLS) of original stock seed provided to the seed grower 

will be determined on a case by case basis in order to determine the amount of seed that 

must be returned to the UCIA from the first harvestable crop by the seed grower. 

 2. When the original seed grower sells to the UCIA and/or buys back seed (as in points 3 

and 4 above) the amount of seed (lbs PLS) will typically be verified through the 

applicable state seed certification agency. Some instances may require special 

negotiation. 

Publications and Presentations: 

Young, S.A. Updating seed assurance. Plants, Soils, and Biometeorology Seminar, USU, Feb. 

13, 2006. PowerPoint Presentation and Discussion. 

th Young, S.A. Tracking the natives from wildlands to fields and back. 6 Annual Native Seed 

Quality Conference, Omaha, NB, Feb. 21-22, 2006. PowerPoint Presentation and Discussion. 

121
Bouck, M. Seed stock of forbs grown for the GBRI and nursery and landscape industries. 

Intermountain Native Plant Summit IV, Boise, ID, March 28-30, 2006. PowerPoint Presentation 

and Discussion. 

Young, S.A. Source Identified native plant species program. Association of American Seed 

Control Officials, 20th Annual Meeting, Billings, MT, July 24-26, 2006. PowerPoint 

Presentation and Discussion. 

Young, S.A. and G.W. Andersen. Reasons for specifying certified and Source Identified seed. 

UDWR Great Basin Research Center Restoration Workshop and Training Session, Sept. 18-21, 

2006, Ephraim, UT. Handouts and Discussion. 

122
Table 1. 2006 Update: Utah Crop Improvement Association (UCIA) forb and grass seed acquisition, distribution, inventory, and field planting 

germplasms included in the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project, UCIA Stock Seed Buyback Program

Kind & Variety / Germplasm Lot/ Source 

Seed acquisition 

and production 

status 

Generation Added to Inventory Date Distributed from Inventory Date Inventory 12/31/2005 State distributed to 

FORBS & SHRUBS bulk bulk bulk Achillea millefolium Western Yarrow Germplasm (Eagle Mountain) NSW4-1-EMY1-1 *3 G2 6.5 9/23/04 6.5 9/14/05 0 WA WY 

NWS-1-YARFDN *3 G2 13 9/20/05 0 13 

Balsamorhiza hookeri BAHO B1-02 *1*2 G0 271g 

Fall 

2002 271g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 CO ID 

Hooker Balsamroot Crepis acuminata CRAC U11-02 *2 G0 50g 

Fall 

2002 50g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID 

Taperstip hawksbeard Lomatium dissectum LODI B7-02 *2 G0 39g 

Fall 

2002 39g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID 

Giant Lomatium LODI B14-02 *2 G0 96g 

Fall 

2002 96g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 NV 

LODI PS-04 *3 G1 60g 11/30/04 0 60g *4 

Lomatium triternatum LOTRT B2-02 *2 G0 446g 

Fall 

2002 446g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID OR 

Ternate lomatium Penstemon acuminatus PEAC2 B4-02 *1*2 G0 102g 

Fall 

2002 102g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID 

Sharpleaf Penstemon PEAC2 B1-01 *2 G0 37g 

Fall 

2002 37g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 NV 

Penstemon cyaneus PECY2 B6-02 *2 G0 968g 

Fall 

2002 968g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID CO 

Blue Penstemon PPI-04-1 *1*3 G1 3 lbs 1/6/05 3 9/16/05 0.0 ID 

2004.0448 *1*3 G1 16 2/2/05 16 2/2/05 0.0 CO 

Penstemon deustus PEDE B11-02 *1*2 G0 150g 

Fall 

2002 150g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID 

Hotrock Penstemon PEDE B10-02 *1*2 G0 123g 

Fall 

2002 123g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 OR 
Table 1 cont. 2006 Update: Utah Crop Improvement Association (UCIA) Forb and grass seed acquisition, distribution, inventory, and field plaspecies germplasms included in the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project, UCIA Stock Seed Buyback Program.

Kind & Variety / Germplasm Lot/ Source 

Seed 

acquisition and 

production 

status 

Generation Added to Inventory Date Distributed from Inventory Date Inventory 12/31/2005 State distributed to 

bulk bulk bulk 

Penstemon pachyphyllus PEPA2 U6-99 *1*2 G0 1020g 

Fall 

2002 1020g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID OR NV 

Thickleaf Penstemon PEPA PS-04 *3 G1 345g 11/30/04 0 345g *4 

A5-4-P1 *3 G1 50lbs 6/7/05 7 

Fall 

2005 43.0 UT ID 

Sphaeralcea parvifolia SPGR U19-02 *2 G0 150g 

Fall 

2002 150g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 OR 

Small Flower Globemallow SPGR U13-01 *2 G0 150g 

Fall 

2002 150g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 OR 

SPPA U14-02 *1*2 G0 150g 

Fall 

2002 150g 

Fall 

2002 0.0 CO 

S04-2-4 *3 G1 1.44lbs 8/19/04 0 1.44lbs SPGR PS-04 *3 G1 130g 11/30/04 0 130g *4 

Tragopogon dubius TRDU U2-02 *2 G0 5.44lbs 

Fall 

2002 5.44lbs 

Fall 

2002 0.0 ID CO 

Yellow Salsify TRDU DW-04 *3 G1 201g 9/15/04 0 201g 

subtotal 105.2lbs 46.8lbs 59lbs 

GRASS Bluebunch Wheatgrass P7 Germplasm BB-3207, UCIA 84 *2 G4 450.0 10/15/03 0.00 450.0 Anatone Germplasm JA-03, UCIA 44 *3 G2 300.0 3/4/04 300.0 3/17/04 0.0 WA Indian Ricegrass Star lake Germplasm GV LOW, ARS 14 *1*2 G2 5.0 3/15/04 5.0 4/14/04 0.0 WA 

GV MED *2 G2 4.0 10/19/04 0.0 4.0 

Sandberg Bluegrass Mountain Home Germplasm 557-215-31A *3 G2 304.0 8/20/03 254.2 9/15/03 54.9 UT ID WA Mountain Home Germplasm 557-215-31A *3 G2 0.0 54.9 9/15/05 0.0 ID WA WY Squirreltail (Bottlebrush) Sand Hollow Germplasm SH RI-98 *2 G2 25.4 11/15/02 0.0 25.4 
Table 1 cont. 2006 Update: Utah Crop Improvement Association (UCIA) Forb and grass seed acquisition, distribution, inventory, and field plaspecies germplasms included in the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project, UCIA Stock Seed Buyback Program. 

Kind & Variety / Germplasm Lot/ Source 

Seed acquisition 

and production 

status 

Generation Added to Inventory Date Distributed from Inventory Date Inventory 12/31/2005 State distributed to 

bulk bulk bulk 

Toe Jam Creek Germplasm LHS1B2J-336 *3 G4 127.5 9/19/05 127.5 9/19/05 0.0 WA 

LHS1B2G-335 *3 G4 41.0 11/12/04 41.0 9/19/05 0.0 WA 

Fish Creek Germplasm LHS1B2K-336 *3 G3 113.5 9/14/05 113.5 9/14/05 0.0 WA 

LHS1B2H-335 *3 G3 47.0 10/28/04 47.0 9/19/05 0.0 WA WY 

subtotal 1417.4 943.1 534.3 

Total 1522.6 989.9 593.3 

*1 Currently under Stock Seed Increase contract with grower/cooperators *2 Seed acquired at no charge from GBRI Cooperators *3 Cost of seed reimbursed to UCIA through USFS joint venture buy-back program agreement. *4 Seed not certified, can be used for demonstration plots 
Table 2. 2007 Standardized Market Price for contract negotiation. 

2007 

Suggested 

Scientific Name Common Name Market Price 

Balsamorhiza hookeri Hooker’s balsamroot $ 60.00 

Crepis acuminata Tapertip hawksbeard $ 140.00 

Lomatium dissectum Giant lomatium (Fernleaf biscuitroot) $ 50.00 

Lomatium triternatum Ternate lomatium (Nineleaf biscuitroot) $ 50.00 

Penstemon acuminatus Sharpleaf penstemon (Sand penstemon) $ 50.00 

Penstemon cyananthus Wasatch penstemon $ 50.00 

Penstemon cyaneus Blue penstemon $ 50.00 

Penstemon deustus Hotrock penstemon $ 50.00 

Penstemon pachyphyllus Thickleaf penstemon $ 50.00 

Penstemon palmeri Palmer penstemon $ 25.00 

Sphaeralcea munroana Munro globemallow $ 60.00 

Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia Gooseberryleaf globemallow $ 60.00 

Sphaeralcea parvifolia Small-flower globemallow $ 60.00 

Tragopogon dubius Yellow salsify $ 30.00 

Achnatherum thurberianum Thurber’s needlegrass $ 50.00 

Balsamorhiza sagittata Arrowleaf balsamroot $ 45.00 

Achillea millefolium Western yarrow Eagle Site $ 15.00 

Poa secunda Sandberg bluegrass Mountain Home Site $ 12.00 

Elymus elymoides Fish Creek Germplasm bottlebrush squirreltail $ 25.00 

Elymus elymoides Toe Jam Creek Germplasm bottlebrush squirreltail $ 25.00 

Pseudoroegneria spicata P-7 Germplasm bluebunch wheatgrass $ 6.50 

126
Appendix 1. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of Research Species. 

Great Basin Project Research 

Selection, seed 

increase, seed 

transfer 

guidelines

Shrub transfer 

guidelines 

Genetic variability 

Pollinators and 

predators 

Cultural practices 

Seed germination, 

testing 

AGCR 

diversification 

Family 1 Common Name Species Apiaceae 

Fernleaf biscuitroot 

SSL-B, 

Aberdeen 

BBSL, 

CSU 

SSL-B, 

OSU 

SSL-B, 

Lomatium dissectum SSL-P NSL Lomatium graveolens var. graveolens Stinking lomatium UDWR UDWR 

UDWR, 

NSL 

SSL-B, 

Aberdeen 

SSL-B, 

OSU 

SSL-B, 

L. grayi Gray's biscuitroot SSL-P NSL 

Slender-fruit 

L. leptocarpum lomatium SSL-B SSL-B SSL-B 

Nineleaf biscuitroot 

SSL-B, 

Aberdeen 

SSL-B, 

OSU 

SSL-B, 

L. triternatum NSL Perideridia bolanderi Yampah UDWR UDWR 

UDWR, 

NSL 

Asteraceae Achillea millefolium Western yarrow Agoseris aurantiaca Orange agoseris SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P 

SSL-P, 

A. glauca Pale agoseris SSL-P BYU SSL-P 

Bigflower 

A. grandiflora agoseris SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P A. heterophylla Annual agoseris SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P 

Wyoming big sagebrush 

A. tridentata wyomingensis SSL-P S

Hooker 

Balsamorhiza hookeri balsamroot UDWR UDWR NSL 

Arrowleaf 

B. sagittata balsamroot UDWR SSL-P 

BBSL, 

CSU 

UDWR, 

UDWR NSL 
Appendix 1. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of Research Species. 

Great Basin Project Research 

Selection, seed 

increase, seed 

transfer 

guidelines

Shrub transfer 

guidelines 

Genetic variability 

Pollinators and 

predators 

Cultural practices 

Seed germination, 

testing 

AGCR 

diversification 

Family 1 Common Name Species

Douglas falseChaenactis douglasii yarrow NSL 

Chrysothamnus nauseosus Gray rabbitbrush SSL-P 

Tapertip 

Crepis acuminata hawksbeard UDWR SSL-P 

BBSL, 

CSU 

UDWR, UDWR

BYU NSL 

C. intermedia Gray hawksbeard UDWR UDWR UDWR 

Western 

C. occidentalis hawksbeard SSL-P NSL Erigeron pumilus Shaggy fleabane SSL-P UDWR NSL Machaeranthera canescens Hoary aster NSL Viguiera multiflora Showy goldeneye SSL-P Capparaceae Cleome lutea Yellow beeplant UDWR BBSL UDWR UDWR 

Rocky Mountain 

C. serrulata beeplant BBSL Chenopodiaceae 

Four-wing 

Atriplex canescens saltbush Aberdeen SSL-P A. confertifolia Shadscale SSL-P A. torreyi Torrey's saltbush SSL-P Krascheninnikovia lanata Winterfat Aberdeen SSL-P Fabaceae Astragalus eremeticus Hermit milkvetch NSL 
Appendix 1. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of Research Species. 

Great Basin Project Research 

Selection, seed 

increase, seed 

transfer 

guidelines

Genetic variability 

Cultural practices 

Seed germination, 

testing 

Family Species Common Name 1

Shrub transfer 

guidelines 

Pollinators a

predat

nd 

ors 

AGCR 

diversification 

Threadstalk 

A. filipes (A. stenophyllus) milkvetch FRRL FRRL 

BBSL, 

CSU FRRL NSL 

SSL-P, 

A. utahensis Utah milkvetch SSL-P SSL-P BYU SSL-P 

BBSL, 

Dalea ornata Prairie clover FRRL FRRL CSU 

Boreal 

Hedysarum boreale sweetvetch FRRL 

FRRL, SSL-P 

BBSL, 

CSU UDWR 

Western 

H. occidentale sweetvetch FRRL FRRL UDWR UDWR Lathyrus brachycalyx Sweetpea SSL-P Lupinus arbustus Longspur lupine SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P 

BBSL, 

L. argenteus Silvery lupine SSL-P SSL-P CSU SSL-P SSL-P L. caudatus Tailcup lupine SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P L. polyphyllus Bigleaf lupine SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P SSL-P 

SSL-P, 

L. sericeus Silky lupine SSL-P SSL-P BYU SSL-P Vicia americana American vetch SSL-P Liliaceae Allium acuminatum Tapertip onion Pullman Pullman 

Green-banded 

Calochortus macrocarpus star tulip C. nuttallii Sego lily 

Gunnison's 

C. gunnisonii mariposa lily 
Appendix 1. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of Research Species. 

Great Basin Project Research 

Selection, seed 

increase, seed 

transfer 

guidelines

Shrub transfer 

guidelines 

Genetic variability 

Pollinators and 

predators 

Cultural practices 

Seed germination, 

testing 

AGCR 

diversification 

Family 1 Common Name SpeciesLinaceae Linum lewisii lewisii Blue flax Aberdeen SSL-P L. perenne Blue flax SSL-P Malvaceae Sphaeralcea spp. Globemallow 

Scarlet globemallow 

UDWR,

S. coccinea UDWR BYU UDWR 

Gooseberryleaf 

S. grossulariifolia globemallow UDWR 

SSL-P, 

FRRL 

UDWR,

BYU UDWR 

Munro's 

S. munroana globemallow FRRL FRRL 

Small-flower 

S. parvifolia globemallow UDWR UDWR UDWR Poaceae 

SSL-P, 

Achnatherum hymenoides Indian ricegrass FRRL FRRL 

Thurber’s 

A. thurberianum needlegrass SSL-B FRRL 

BYU, 

EOARC, 

NRCS, 

BLM

Crested wheatgrass 1 Agropyron cristatum 

Bromus carinatus California brome SSL-P B. marginatus Mountain brome SSL-P CSU Elymus elymoides Squirreltail grass FRRL FRRL E. elymoides brevifolia Bottlebrush FRRL FRRL 
Appendix 1. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of Research Species. 

Great Basin Project Research 

Selection, seed 

increase, seed 

transfer 

guidelines

Shrub transfer 

guidelines 

Genetic variability 

Pollinators and 

predators 

Cultural practices 

Seed germination, 

testing 

AGCR 

diversification 

Family 1 Common Name Species

squirreltail 

E. multisetus Big squirreltail FRRL FRRL 

Snake River 

E. wawawaiensis wheatgrass FRRL FRRL 

UDWR, 

Needle-and SSL-P, 

Hesperostipa comata thread grass FRRL 

SSL-P, 

FRRL 

UDWR, 

SSL-P 

UDWR, 

SSL-P 

UDWR, 

Leymus cinereus Basin wildrye FRRL FRRL CSU UDWRL. triticoides Beardless wildrye FRRL FRRL 

Green 

Nassella viridula needlegrass 

Western 

Pascopyrum smithii wheatgrass FRRL FRRL Poa fendleriana Muttongrass UDWR UDWR 

Sandberg 

P. secunda bluegrass FRRL FRRL 

UDWR, 

Bluebunch Aberdeen, wheatgrass 

FRRL

Pseudoroegneria spicata FRRL SSL-B Polemoniaceae 

SSL-P, 

P. longifolia Longleaf phlox SSL-P SSL-P BYU SSL-P Polygonaceae Eriogonum heracleoides Wyeth buckwheat 

Cushion buckwheat 

UDWR, UDWR, 

E. ovalifolium UDWR BYU NSL 
Appendix 1. Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project: Status of Research Species. 

Great Basin Project Research 

Selection, seed 

increase, seed 

transfer 

guidelines

Shrub transfer 

guidelines 

Genetic variability 

Pollinators and 

predators 

Cultural practices 

Seed germination, 

testing 

AGCR 

diversification 

Family 1 Common Name Species

Sulfur-flower buckwheat 

SSL-B, 

E. umbellatum Aberdeen SSL-P 

 BBSL, 

CSU SSL-B 

SSL-B, 

NSL 

Rosaceae Purshia tridentata Bitterbrush SSL-P SSL-P SScrophulariaceae 

SSL-B, 

NSL, 

OSU 

Sharpleaf penstemon 

SSL-B, 

Aberdeen 

SSL-B, 

Penstemon acuminatus SSL-P CSU OSU 

 Royal 

P. cyaneus penstemon 

SSL-B, 

NSL, 

OSU 

Scabland penstemon 

SSL-B, 

Aberdeen 

SSL-B, 

P. deustus SSL-P OSU 

Thickleaf 

P. pachyphyllus penstemon 

Palmer 

P. palmeri penstemon SSL-P 

SSL-B, 

NSL, 

OSU 

Sagebrush penstemon 

SSL-B, 

P. speciosus Aberdeen SSL-P 

BBSL, 

CSU 

SSL-B, 

OSU 

Aberdeen = Natural Resources Conservation Service Plant Materials Center, Aberdeen, ID (St. John, Ogle) AOSCA = Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies Cooperative Native Seed Increase Program BBSL = USDA-ARS Bee Biology and Systematics Laboratory (Cane) BYU = Brigham Young University (Anderson, Roundy, Johnson, Jessop) CSU = Colorado State University, Cooperative Extension, Tri-River Area (Hammon) EOARC = USDA-ARS Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center (Mangold) 
FRRL = USDA-ARS Forage and Range Research Laboratory (Johnson, Jones, Larson, Monaco, Peel) 

NSL = National Seed Laboratory (Karrfalt, Vankus)OSU = Oregon State University, Malheur Experiment Station (Shock, Feibert, Johnson)Pullman = ARS, Western Regional Plant Introduction Station, Pullman, WA (Johnson, Hellier)SSL-B = USDA-FS-RMRS Shrub Sciences Laboratory - Boise (Shaw, DeBolt, Cox)SSL-P = USDA-FS-RMRS Shrub Sciences Laboratory - Provo (McArthur, Jensen, Sanderson)

UCIA = Utah Crop Improvement Association (Young, Bouck) Notes:1. Crested wheatgrass diversification: studies.