Revegetation practices on the Santa Rita Experimental Range

Abstract

This paper discusses the revegetation activites on the Santa Rita Experimental Range since 1903. Revegetation research includes experiments to evaluate adaptation, seedbed preparation, and sowing methods. We also discuss criteria used to determine if a site has the potential for a successful revegetation. Successful revegetation was initially based on plant emergence and establishment but not persistence. Plants in successful plantings typically died or the initial stand declined substantially within about 10 years. Revegetation trials typically used native and introduced species. However, introduced species such as Lehmann lovegrass (Eragrostis lehmanniana Nees) more successfully established and spread. Lehmann lovegrass is invading and reducing the biodiversity of the semidesert grasslands. Scientists and others are now emphasizing revegetation with native plants. The Santa Rita Experimental Range will continue to serve as an outdoor laboratory in the search for revegetation methods, combined with the use of native species, to improve the biodiversity as well as watershed stability of the semidesert grasslands.

Parent Publication

• Santa Rita Experimental Range: 100 years (1903 to 2003) of accomplishments and contributions; conference proceedings; 2003 October 30-November 1; Tucson, AZ

Citation

Munda, Bruce D.; Pater, Mark J. 2003. Revegetation practices on the Santa Rita Experimental Range. In: McClaran, Mitchel P.; Ffolliott, Peter F.; Edminster, Carleton B., tech. coords. Santa Rita Experimental Range: 100 years (1903 to 2003) of accomplishments and contributions; conference proceedings; 2003 October 30-November 1; Tucson, AZ. Proc. RMRS-P-30. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 80-91.