Restoration of Prairie Community Structure and Ecosystem Function in an Abandoned Hayfield: A Sowing Experiment

Authors:
Foster, B.L., C.A. Murphy, K.R. Keller, T.A. Aschenbach, E.J. Questad and K. Kindscher

Publication Date:
2007

Abstract/Summary:
Using a multispecies seed sowing experiment, we investigated the roles of seed and microsite limitation in constraining the restoration of native prairie diversity and ecosystem function in an abandoned upland hayfield in northeastern Kansas. Our findings reveal the importance of seed limitations in constraining the natural recovery of prairie vegetation, biodiversity, and ecosystem functioning in this grassland and confirm broadcast sowing as a useful tool for the restoration of upland hayfield sites.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Restoration Ecology

Link:
http://kindscher.faculty.ku.edu/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Kindscher-Foster-Murphy-2007-Restoration.pdf