Information Portal
USE THE RESOURCES BELOW TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NATIVE GRASSLAND CONSERVATION AND RESTORATION
RECOVERY STRATEGIES FOR DISTURBANCE IN NATIVE GRASSLANDS
These guidance documents are designed for industry and others to improve reclamation outcomes in native grassland ecosystems with the goal of restoration after disturbance. Guidance is based on long-term monitoring, literature review, peer review and stakeholder workshops.
WORKING IN NATIVE GRASSLAND PRIMER
Project managers and contractors must understand where they are working, the applicable regulatory authority, and the operating conditions that apply for the proposed activity in native grasslands. The primer flags the complexities specific to constructing and reclaiming native grasslands and includes step-by-step guidance and links to regulations, directives and resources.
There is an ongoing shortage of native seed for restoration of disturbances in native grasslands.
Some of the native grass and forb species required can only be obtained through harvesting the seed from intact native plant communities. Examples include plains rough fescue, mountain rough fescue, western porcupine grass, needle-and-thread grass, and other key native grasses and forb species. Wild harvesting is a process which strips mature seed from the reproductive structure of the plant by hand or by mechanical means, leaving the leaf and root structures intact. In addition, a portion of the stripped seed is dropped to the ground which disperses mature seed and contributes to the native seedbank.
GUIDELINES & REFERENCES
This section hosts links for current government guidance and downloadable documents on ecological site restoration risk analysis, how to conduct an assessment of native grasslands, planning tools to minimize disturbance to native grasslands, and designing reclamation of native grassland disturbances.
RESEARCH & TECHNICAL REPORTS
This section hosts research and monitoring documents relevant to conservation, management and reclamation of native grasslands.
Recommended Monitoring Protocols for Targeted Grazing Projects
Targeted grazing is used to address numerous conservation issues including but not limited to: noxious weed and non-native plant species invasion, woody vegetation invasion of grasslands, grass and broadleaf woody vegetation invasion of regenerating forests, and manipulation of vegetation and litter to reduce fire hazard or enhance habitat for species at risk and other wildlife. This resource helps guide the use of targeted grazing to enhance the success of outcomes and to minimize or eliminate any negative consequences.
Targeted Grazing Monitoring Protocols
Targeted grazing is defined as: the application of a specific kind of livestock at a determined season, duration, and intensity to accomplish defined vegetation or landscape goals.
VIDEO LINKS
The links below lead to a site containing video products that highlight the need for regional planning in Alberta.
Previous Presentations
The Grasslands Restoration Forum (GRF) has a multitude of previous presentations, serving as a catalyst for discussions and knowledge exchange within the realm of grassland restoration. Specifically within Alberta.
