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Abstract
Developing a method of agricultural field reclamation to native grasses in the Lower San Pedro Watershed could prove to be a valuable tool for educational and practical purposes. Agricultural field reclamation utilizing native grass crop production will address water table depletion, soil degradation and the economic viability of the communities within the watershed. The focus of this study was to analyze the conversion of agricultural fields to native grass crops of three representative sites. Study sites include; a farm with fields that were seeded and allowed to grow for a period of time with subsequent termination of irrigation, a ranch that converted approximately 18 acres to native grasses for production of grass-fed beef and a ranch that is working towards a goal of restoring the giant sacaton habitat. Each site was analyzed utilizing a matrix of questions. Personal interviews and site visits were sources for information to complete the matrix. Conclusions were drawn through analysis of the matrix and recommendations developed to formulate the reclamation method most appropriate to achieve the anticipated goals of each site. This study developed a recommended method for agricultural field reclamation to native grasses in the Lower San Pedro Watershed to be used as a tool for educational and practical purposes utilizing the information obtained. The recommended method includes the processes for initial plan development, field preparation, and seeding. The methods are discussed within the project and prepared as an educational flier.
Parent Publication
Keywords
Madrean Archipelago,
Sky Islands,
southwestern United States,
northern Mexico,
natural environment,
fauna,
flora,
research,
management,
biodiversity,
climate change
Citation
Cure, J. 2013. Agricultural field reclamation utilizing native grass crop production. In: Gottfried, Gerald J.; Ffolliott, Peter F.; Gebow, Brooke S.; Eskew, Lane G.; Collins, Loa C. Merging science and management in a rapidly changing world: Biodiversity and management of the Madrean Archipelago III and 7th Conference on Research and Resource Management in the Southwestern Deserts; 2012 May 1-5; Tucson, AZ. Proceedings. RMRS-P-67. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 303-309.
