Author
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Berdahl, John |
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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 9/10/2003 Publication Date: 9/12/2003 Citation: Berdahl, J.D. 2003. Thoughts on seed sources for native plants. p. 18. IN: Proc. Native Plant Summit VII. Planning Native Landscapes - Urban and Rural. Fargo, ND. 16-18 Sept. 2003. USDA-NRCS. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Much interest and discussion has been focused on appropriate 'seed transfer zones' for native plants. This is a complex issue, because plant species vary widely in their range of adaptation. Geographic ecoregions based on factors such as climate, soils, natural vegetation, land use, etc. provide valuable guidance, but performance testing of plant populations across representative environments is needed to provide critical data for determining range of adaptation. Most would agree that 'native' plant populations used in reclamation and restoration efforts should be representative of indigenous germplasm. Development of native plant populations requires that enough individuals be collected to provide a representative sample of germplasm for the target area. Inadequate population size results in genetic drift and a reduction in genetic diversity. The 'Ecovar' (ecological variety) concept used in Canada provides a good model for developing native grass populations. |
