Authors:
Gramineae Services Ltd
Publication Date:
2013
Abstract/Summary:
Alberta’s Grassland Natural Region has been significantly modified by land use practices. The semi-arid climate of the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion (DMG) supports native plant communities adapted to drought. Minimizing soil disturbance and natural recovery are often the most effective strategies for restoring DMG native plant communities. This document identifies strategies designed to retain and restore native grassland plant communities following disturbance in the DMG. This manual describes tools for planning native grassland retention and restoration, including pre-disturbance planning and recovery strategies, such as minimal disturbance, buffers, natural recovery and native seed mix design. Implementing a strategy is explained, including site preparation, soil amendments and procuring native seed, then maintaining the pathway using invasive plant and grazing management, and long-term monitoring. Appendices include a summary of regional reclamation studies and suitable seed mixes to develop target plant communities for ecological range sites common in the DMG.
- C1: Identify appropriate measures for conducting ecosystem restoration
- C2: Consider how restoration can support sustainability of agriculture/production
- C5: Implement the measures
- D1: Assess the efficacy and effects of implementing the ecosystem restoration plan
- D2: Adjust plans, expectations, procedures, and monitoring through adaptive management
Resource Type:
Technical Document
Source:
Alberta Environmental and Sustainable Resource Development