ARS | Publication request: RANGELAND IMPROVEMENT

Submitted to: New Mexico Livestock Research Briefs and Cattle Growers Short Course
Publication Type: Research Notes
Publication Acceptance Date: March 4, 1996
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: The mission of the Jornada Experimental Range is to produce new knowledge of ecosystem processes for development of desert rangelands. We are focusing on technologies that are readily useable by private and public land managers. Among our current efforts is the development of passive methods for reseeding desert rangelands with native plant species. To date ewe have examined several methods for seed dispersal into areas where desired species are absent. These methods predominately employ use of animals and natural water flows. We are also currently developing and testing several simple soil-based indicators of rangeland integrity, or health. One type of indicator is directly related to the capacity of soils to provide resources to plants. Another type provides an assessment of soil stability. We are developing an array of indicators that are linked to processes involving both the vegetation and soils. This combination will provide a more realistic and reliable system for rangeland assessments.