United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA/600/R-07/114
August 2007
Mine Waste Technology
Program
Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant
Plants
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EPA/600/R-07/114
August 2007
Mine Waste Technology Program
Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Plants
By:
Jay Cornish
MSB Technology Applications, Inc.
Mike Mansfield Advanced Technology Center
Butte, Montana 59702
Under Contract No. DE-AC09-96EW96405
Through EPA lAGNo. DW8993989701-0
Norma Lewis, EPA Project Manager
Systems Analysis Branch
National Risk Management Research Laboratory
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
This study was conducted in cooperation with
U.S. Department of Energy
Environmental Management Consolidated Business Center
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
National Risk Management Research Laboratory
Office of Research and Development
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
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Notice
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through its Office of Research and Development
funded the research described here under IAG ID. No. DW8993989701-0 through the U.S. Department of
Energy (DOE) Contract DE-AC09-96EW96405. It has been subjected to the Agency's peer and
administrative review and has been cleared for publication as an EPA document. Reference herein to any
specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise,
does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation. The views and opinions of
authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of EPA or DOE, or any agency thereof.
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Foreword
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged by Congress with protecting the Nation's
land, air, and water resources. Under a mandate of national environmental laws, the Agency strives to
formulate and implement actions leading to a compatible balance between human activities and the ability
of natural systems to support and nurture life. To meet this mandate, EPA's research program is
providing data and technical support for solving environmental problems today and building a science
knowledge base necessary to manage our ecological resources wisely, understand how pollutants affect
our health, and prevent or reduce environmental risks in the future.
The National Risk Management Research Laboratory (NRMRL) is the Agency's center for investigation
of technological and management approaches for preventing and reducing risks from pollution that
threaten human health and the environment. The focus of the Laboratory's research program is on
methods and their cost-effectiveness for prevention and control of pollution to air, land, water, and
subsurface resources; protection of water quality in public water systems; remediation of contaminated
sites, sediments and ground water; prevention and control of indoor air pollution; and restoration of
ecosystems. NRMRL collaborates with both public and private sector partners to foster technologies that
reduce the cost of compliance and to anticipate emerging problems. NRMRL's research provides
solutions to environmental problems by: developing and promoting technologies that protect and improve
the environment; advancing scientific and engineering information to support regulatory and policy
decisions; and providing the technical support and information transfer to ensure implementation of
environmental regulations and strategies at the national, state, and community levels.
This publication has been produced as part of the Laboratory's strategic long-term research plan. It is
published and made available by EPA's Office of Research and Development to assist the user
community and to link researchers with their clients.
Sally Gutierrez, Director
National Risk Management Research Laboratory
in
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Abstract
This report summarizes the results of Mine Waste Technology Program (MWTP) Activity III, Project 30,
Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Plants, implemented and funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) and jointly administered by EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This project
addressed EPA's technical issue of Mobile Toxic Constituents - Water and Acid Generation.
The objective of Project 30 was to select populations (i.e., ecotypes) from native, indigenous plant species
that demonstrate superior growth characteristics and sustainability on acidic, heavy metals-contaminated
soils occurring at varying elevations in western Montana. The native vegetative cover was required to
meet the following criteria:
- reduce potential risks to human and wildlife receptors following exposure to heavy metals via the
ingestion (plant/soil/surface water) and inhalation (fugitive dust) routes for these contaminants;
and
- accelerate creation of improved wildlife habitat and aesthetic conditions on these historically
degraded lands.
The three project specific goals were to:
- release seed of native species indigenous to western Montana that are valuable for the
restoration/reclamation of hardrock mines, mill tailings, and smelter affected sites;
- field test potential releases (of these species) at the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site to verify
adaptation to acidic/metals-rich soils and interspecies compatibility; and
- provide technology transfer by the development of educational materials for the scientific
community, seed producers, and reclamation specialists regarding new plant materials and
establishment techniques.
Local accession no. 9081620 of slender wheatgrass met the quantitative criteria for canopy cover, aerial
biomass production, and vigor when grown in pure stands; it also contributed significantly to the superior
performance of mixed indigenous vs. mixed commercial accessions used for reclamation in the Anaconda
area. For the five trace elements evaluated, only the copper level in the 2005 sample exceeded the
generally acceptable concentration for most livestock species [i.e., 47 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg)
vs. 40 mg/kg], but not for wildlife (55 mg/kg; see Table 2-20). However, the concentrations of aluminum
and copper (i.e., 151 and 15 mg/kg, respectively) in the 2006 tissue analyses imply plant surface
contamination by soil particles influenced the results from 2005. Subsequently, Copperhead Selected
class germplasm of the indigenous slender wheatgrass was released to commercial growers in the summer
of2006.
The above accession joins the following releases that were developed under the Development of
Acid/Heavy Metal-Tolerant Cultivars project: Western Selected germplasm basin wildrye, Old Works
Source Identified germplasm for fuzzy tongue penstemon, and Prospectors Selected germplasm for
common snowberry. Local accessions of big bluegrass and bluebunch wheatgrass are expected to be
released to commercial growers within the next 2 years.
IV
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Contents
Page
Notice ii
Foreword iii
Abstract iv
Contents v
Figures vii
Tables vii
Acronyms and Abbreviations viii
Species Index ix
Acknowledgments xi
Executive Summary ES-1
1. INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Background 1
1.2 Project Description 1
1.3 Scope of Work 2
1.4 Project Objectives 2
2. DEMONSTRATION 4
2.1 Task 1 - Evaluation of Grasses, Forbs, and Seed Mixtures 4
2. .1 Study Site 4
2. .2 Soil Treatment 4
2. .3 Post-Treatment Soil Sampling 5
2. .4 Planting Design 5
2. .5 Seeded Species 6
2. .6 Sampling Methods 6
2. .7 Grass Trails (2003) 7
2. .8 Grass Trials (2004) 7
2. .9 Grass Trials (2005) 8
2. .10 Seed Mixture Trial 8
2. .11 Forb/Subshrub Trial 8
2. .12 Tissue Analysis 9
2.2 Task 2 -Woody Comparative Evaluation 10
2.2.1 Test Site 10
2.2.2 Methods and Materials 10
2.2.3 Results and Discussion 10
2.3 Task 3 - High Quality Seed "Bank" 11
2.3.1 Seeding 11
2.3.2 Transplanting 12
2.3.3 Woody Transplants 12
2.3.4 Production Fields 12
2.3.5 Weed Control 12
2.3.6 Fertilization 12
2.3.7 Irrigation 12
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Contents (Cont'd)
Page
2.3.8 Seed Harvest 12
2.3.9 Post-Harvest Maintenance 12
2.3.10 Seed Cleaning 12
2.3.11 Seed Storage 13
2.3.12 Seed Accessioning and Inventory 13
2.4 Task 4 - Plant Releases 13
2.5 Goal 1 - Field Testing 14
2.6 Goal 2 - Technology Transfer 14
2.6.1 DATC Project Releases 14
2.7 Comments Regarding Laboratory Quality Assurance/Quality Control 15
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 42
3.1 Conclusions 42
3.1.1 Woody Comparative Evaluation Plot 42
3.1.2 Stucky Ridge Plot 42
3.2 Recommendations 43
4. REFERENCES 44
Appendix A: Development of Acid/Heavy Tolerant Release (DATR) 2005 Activities A-1
Appendix B: Development of Acid/Heavy Tolerant Release (DATR) 2006 Activities B-l
VI
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Figures
Page
1-1. DATC project location map (Source: Montana NRIS, 1996) 3
2-1. Layout of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials at the Stucky Ridge Comparative
Evaluation Planting. See Species Index (p. ix) for plant codes and Tables 2-5 through 2-8 for
seed mixture formulations. (Source: Marty, 2003b) 16
Tables
Page
2-1. Pretillage Soils Data in the Proximity of the Plot Site (ARCO, 2002, May) 17
2-2. Post-Planting Grass, Forb/Subshrub, and Seed Mixture Trial (0- to 6-inch) Composite Soil
Sample Analysis 18
2-3. Forb and Subshrub Treatments Included in the Forb/Subshrub Trial 18
2-4. Grass Treatments Included in the Grass Trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands 19
2-5. Upland Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation 20
2-6. Upland Areas - Developed Seed Mix Formulation 20
2-7. Waste Management Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation 21
2-8. Waste Management Areas - Developed Seed Mix Formulation 21
2-9. Density (seedlings per square foot) Sampled on 6/24/03, at Stucky Ridge 22
2-10. Density (seedlings per square foot) Sampled on 8/25/03, at Stucky Ridge 23
2-11. Percentage Stand and Vigor of Grass Trials on Stucky Ridge Plot on 6/30/04 24
2-12. Average Plant Height of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Plots Measured 6/30/04 25
2-13. Percentage Stand and Vigor of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Plots Evaluated on 9/22/04 26
2-14. Biomass Production of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials Clipped on 9/22/04 27
2-15. Percentage Stand and Vigor of Grass Trials on Stucky Ridge Plots Evaluated on 8/30/05 28
2-16. Average Plant Height of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Plots Measured on 8/3 0/05 29
2-17. Biomass Production of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials Clipped on 8/30/05 30
2-18. Moto-X Replicated Mixture Trial on Stucky Ridge 31
2-19. Seedling Density (2003), Percentage Stand (2004), and Total Plant Density (2005) of Forb and
Subshrub Accessions in the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting Evaluated on
6/24/03, 8/25/03, 6/30/04, 9/22/04, and 8/30/05 31
2-20. Heavy Metal Concentration of Clipped Biomass Samples from Stucky Ridge Sampled on
9/22/04 and 8/29/05; Analyzed on 10/10/053 32
2-21. Acid Extractable Heavy Metal Levels at the Woody CEP Plot 38
2-22. Seed Origin and Elevation Entries 38
2-23. Woody Comparative Evaluation Plot 39
2-24. Seed Production Fields Established at the BPMC 40
2-25. Seed on Hand of Increase Plant Material 40
2-26. Comparison of Independent Soil Sampling and Analysis Results3 41
vn
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Acronyms and Abbreviations
Al aluminum
ARCO Atlantic Richfield Company
As arsenic
BPMC Bridger Plant Materials Center
Cd cadmium
CEP Comparative Evaluation Plot
Cu copper
DATC Development of Acid/Heavy Metal-Tolerant Cultivars
DLVCD Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District
DOE U.S. Department of Energy
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
LOAEL lowest observed adverse effect level
LSD least significant difference (Fisher's mean comparison method)
MSE MSE Technology Applications, Inc.
MWTP Mine Waste Technology Program
Pb lead
PLS pure live seeds
RDU Remedial Design Unit
RPD relative percent difference
s.u. standard unit
USDA-NRCS U.S. Department of Agriculture/Natural Resources Conservation Service
WMA waste management area
Zn zinc
Vlll
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Species Index
Part A. Grasses
Taxonomic Name (abbreviation)
Achnatherum hymenoides (ACHY)
Agropyron intermedium (AGIN)
Agrostis gigantea (AGGI)
Bromus inermis (BRIN)
Deschampsia caespitosa (DECE)
Efymus lanceolatus (ELLA)
Elymus trachycaulus (ELTR)
Efymus wawawaiensis (ELWA)
Festuca ovina (FEOV)
Leymus cinereus (LECI)
Pascopyrum smithii (PASM)
Poa alpina (POAL)
Poa secunda (POSE)
Poa species (POSP)
Pseudoroegneria spicata (PSSP)
Stipa comata (STCO)
Stipa viridula (STVI)
Part B. Forbs and Subshrubs
Taxonomic Name (abbreviation)
Achillea lanulosa (ACLA)
Artemisia frigida (ARFR)
Aster chilensis (ASCH)
Cirsium arvense (CIAR)
Ericameria nauseosa (ERNA)
Eriogonum ovalifolium (EROV)
Eriogonum umbellatum (ERUM)
Krascheninnikovia lanata (KRLA)
Linum lewisii (LILE)
Medicago sativa (MESA)
Mentzelia decapetala (MEDE)
Penstemon eatonii (PEEA)
Penstemon eriantherus (PEER)
Penstemon strictus (PEST)
Penstemon venustus (PEVE)
Phacelia hastata (PHHA)
Potentilla gracilis (POOR)
Potentilla hippiana (POHI)
Symphyotrichum chilense (SYCH)
Tetradymia canescens (TECA)
Common Name
Indian ricegrass
intermediate wheatgrass
redtop
smooth brome
tufted hairgrass
thickspike wheatgrass
slender wheatgrass
Snake River wheatgrass
sheep fescue
basin wildrye
western wheatgrass
alpine bluegrass
Sandberg (Canby) bluegrass
bluegrass species
bluebunch wheatgrass
needle-and-thread grass
green needlegrass
Common Name
western yarrow
fringed sagewort
creeping aster
Canada thistle
rubber rabbitbrush
cushion buckwheat
sulfur-flower buckwheat
winterfat
Lewis flax
alfalfa
tenpetal blazingstar
firecracker penstemon
fuzzy-tongue penstemon
Rocky Mountain penstemon
venus penstemon
silverleaf phacelia
slender cinquefoil
woolly cinquefoil
Pacific aster
Spineless horsebrush
IX
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Part C. Shrubs and Trees
Taxonomic Name (abbreviation) Common Name
Pinus contorta (PICO) lodgepole pine
Pinus ponderosa (PIPO) ponderosa pine
Populus tremuloides (POTR) quaking aspen
Ribes cereum (RICE) wax currant
Rosa woodsii (ROWO) Woods' rose
Shepherdia argentea (SHAR) silver buffaloberry
Symphoricarpos albus (SYAL) common snowberry
Symphoricarpos occidentalis (SYOC) western snowberry
Note: a See USDA-NRCS (2006a) for additional information on these plant species.
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Acknowledgments
This document was prepared by MSB Technology Applications, Inc. (MSB) for the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency's (EPA) Mine Waste Technology Program (MWTP) and the U.S. Department of
Energy's (DOE) Environmental Management Consolidated Business Center. Ms. Diana Bless is EPA's
MWTP Project Officer, while Mr. Gene Ashby is DOE's Technical Program Officer. Ms. Helen Joyce is
MSB's MWTP Program Manager. Ms. Norma Lewis is the EPA Project Manager, while Ms. Lauren
Drees is the EPA Quality Assurance Officer, for this project.
MSE thanks Ms. Leslie Marty and Mr. Mark Majerus for sharing the technical lead on this project and
Mr. Joe Scianna for providing the summary report for 2006 activities. MSE also appreciates the
constructive reviews received from Dr. Martha Apple (Montana Tech of the University of Montana) and
Mr. Dennis Neuman (Reclamation Research Group, LLC) on the draft version of this report.
XI
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Executive Summary
The Mine Waste Technology Program (MWTP), Activity III, Project 30, Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant
Plants, was implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and jointly administered
by EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Project 30 addresses EPA's technical issue of
Mobile Toxic Constituents - Water and Acid Generation.
The ultimate goal of the Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Cultivars (DATC) project was to
provide a reliable supply of high-quality, acid-metals tolerant native seed adapted to reclamation of
hardrock mine lands within the Intermountain Region of the western United States.
This DATC project was initiated in 1995 and funded by a grant from the Montana Department of Natural
Resources and Conservation (DNRC)-Reclamation and Development to the Deer Lodge Valley
Conservation District (DLVCD). The DLVCD worked in cooperation with the U.S. Department of
Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) Bridger Plant Materials Center
(BPMC). The national network of 26 plant materials centers is the primary source of native plants
developed specifically for reclamation and conservation use. The BPMC, in south-central Montana, is a
140-acre research facility dedicated to the selection and release of native plant materials, primarily for use
in Montana and Wyoming. The original DNRC grant expired at the end of 1996 and this project did not
receive funding until June 1998, at which time carryover money for the 1997-98 grant period was made
available to this project, as well as some financial support from the Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO).
During 1999 and 2000, the project was again funded by a DNRC Reclamation and Development grant.
Since 2000, the DATC project has been funded by the MWTP (through 2005) and the Montana
Department of Justice-Natural Resource Damage Program (through 2008).
To date, the DATC project has acquired 130 collections of seed from 72 native species of grasses, forbs,
shrubs, and trees from within the Upper Clark Fork River Basin. Additional collections have been made
from abandoned mine sites throughout western Montana. These collections have been planted at various
study sites in comparison with nonlocal native and introduced plant species. ARCO has provided land
access for seed collection and sites for experimental plots throughout the Upper Clark Fork River Basin.
Presently, indigenous accessions of basin wildrye, slender wheatgrass, fuzzy-tongue penstemon, and
common snowberry have been released to commercial growers. Three more grass accessions are
expected to be released by 2008, with a few additional shrub accessions to follow thereafter (Appendix A,
Section 5).
ES-1
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Introduction
1.1 Background
One of the most impacted areas within the
Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site is
approximately 18 square miles of uplands (Figure
1-1). The uplands are commonly derived from the
weathering of bedrock and are typically thin, clay-
rich alfisols. Due to the susceptibility of these
soils to erosion by wind and water, the soil surface
in many areas had eroded away and the subsoil,
which is exposed at the surface, continues to
erode. Original vegetation in the uplands
consisted primarily of shrub lands with coniferous
forests above approximately 5,800 feet. In an
effort to curtail the transport of contaminants and
remediate these injured areas, state and federal
regulatory agencies have developed several
reclamation alternatives, which include planting of
shrubs and trees.
The low pH soils at the Anaconda Smelter
Superfund Site are routinely ameliorated by
incorporating lime; however, nonuniform lime
incorporation, as well as the upward migration of
acid producing compounds, results in pockets of
acidity. Additionally, many steeply sloped areas
are not accessible to heavy equipment making
them difficult to amend (Jennings and
Munshower, 1997). Research has demonstrated
that metal-tolerant plants can be used to stabilize
and immobilize contaminants in the soil (e.g.,
Dahmani-Muller et al, 2000; Conesa et al., 2007).
Metals are absorbed and accumulated by roots,
adsorbed onto the roots, or precipitated within the
rhizosphere, thereby trapping contaminants in the
soil and breaking the soil-plant-animal cycle
(Vangronsveld and Cunningham, 1998).
Numerous demonstration projects over the last
50 years at the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site
have tested the performance of several woody
plant species in diverse edaphic conditions
(Reclamation Research Unit, 1993). This study
builds on previous research findings by testing
accessions (ecotypes) of woody plant species that
have shown adaptations to low pH and heavy-
metal contaminated soils. The objective of the
study was to identify acid/ heavy-metal-tolerant
native plant ecotypes that provide erosion control
and wildlife habitat. The goal of the Development
of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Cultivars (DATC)
project was to release these superior ecotypes to
the commercial market, thereby providing a
greater array of plant materials for the reclamation
industry.
Previous studies included "local" germplasm
originating from seed collected on nearby mine-
affected soils in Deer Lodge County, Montana, as
well as "nonlocal" germplasm seed collected on
nonimpacted lands in various counties of
Montana, Colorado, South Dakota, Utah, and
Wyoming. Seedlings of 19 accessions of 7 woody
species including lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine,
silver buffaloberry, Woods' rose, common
snowberry, western snowberry, and wax currant
were transplanted into a common garden in a
randomized complete block design. (The Species
Index [p. ix] contains the taxonomic name for each
plant species mentioned in this report.)
1.2 Project Description
This report summarizes the results of Mine Waste
Technology Program (MWTP) Activity III,
Project 30, Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Plants,
implemented and funded by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
jointly administered by EPA and the U.S.
Department of Energy (DOE). This project
addressed EPA's technical issue of Mobile Toxic
Constituents - Water and Acid Generation.
The purpose of Activity III, Project 30 was to
select populations (i.e., ecotypes) from native,
indigenous plant species that demonstrate superior
survivability and vigor on acidic, heavy metals-
contaminated soils occurring at varying elevations
in western Montana.
The initial demonstration of the viability of these
plants occurred at sites located within the
Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site.
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1.3 Scope of Work
The scope of work for this project was to collect,
test, select, grow, and ultimately release
indigenous native plants that demonstrated
superior adaptation to acidic/heavy metals-
contaminated soils.
1.4 Project Objectives
The qualitative objective of Project 30 was to
establish a native indigenous vegetative
cover/plant community that:
- reduced potential risks to human and wildlife
receptors following exposure to heavy metals
through ingestion (plant, soil and surface
water) and inhalation (fugitive dust) routes
for these contaminants: and
- accelerated creation of improved wildlife
habitat and aesthetic conditions on
historically degraded lands.
The quantitative measures for selecting those
species-specific accessions that meet the above
objectives include (MSB, 2001):
- vegetative canopy cover of 40 ± 10%;
- aerial (aboveground) biomass production of
0.15 ± 0.05 dry kilogram per square meter
(kg/m2);
- vigor rating of 1.5 ± 0.5; wherein 1 =
"healthiest" vs. 5 = "dead"; and
- strong acid extractable ("total") trace element
levels in aerial biomass that indicate neither
gross phytotoxicity nor pose a significant
threat to herbivores.
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Approximate Bou ndary Community So\js and
Anaconda Regional Waier, Wasie, an
Soils Operable Units
Old Works/East Anaoonda
Development Are
Scale of Miles
0 234
Figure 1-1. DATC project location map (Source: Montana NRIS, 1996).
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Demonstration
The project was divided into tasks, subtasks, and
work products specifically associated with each of
the project goals (Marty, 2003a).
2.1 Task 1 - Evaluation of Grasses, Forbs,
and Seed Mixtures
This task focused on identifying grass and forb
accessions that exhibited superior tolerance to acid
and heavy metals contaminated soils. The
grass/forb entries evaluated were those that were
tested at the Bridger Plant Materials Center
(BPMC) greenhouse over the fall/winter of 2000-
2001 (Marty, 2001).
2.1.1 Study Site
The site for this study is located on Stucky Ridge,
approximately 2 miles northeast of Anaconda,
Montana, in Deer Lodge County. The legal
description and geographic position of the study
site are the SW 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 30,
Range 11 West, Township 5 North and North
46°09'09"/West 112°54'30". The study plot
occupies 1.5 acres in subpolygon OWSR-013.09,
which was part of the Stucky Ridge Remedial
Design Unit (RDU) #1 within the Anaconda
Regional Water, Waste, and Soils Operable Unit.
RDU #1 encompasses 242 acres of the
approximately 13,000 acres of upland terrestrial
vegetation contaminated by emission fallout from
the Washoe as well as the Upper and Lower
Works smelters. Concerns identified in the Stucky
Ridge RDU include elevated arsenic (As)
concentrations in surface soils, barren or sparsely
vegetated areas due to low pH, elevated
contaminant concentrations, and steep slopes with
high erosion potentials. Table 2-1 lists the soil
characteristics of pretillage soil data points closest
to the study site, as taken from the Remedial
Action Work Plan/Final Design Report (EPA,
1995). Current and historic use of this area
primarily consists of agricultural grazing,
recreation, and open space/wildlife habitat.
The plot site is situated on a stream terrace above
Lost Creek at an elevation of 5,308 feet and covers
most of the relatively flat ground on the east end
of Stucky Ridge. The vegetation, although sparse,
includes scattered groves of quaking aspen;
shrublands dominated by Woods' rose, currant
species, rubber rabbitbrush, and spineless
horsebrush; and grasslands dominated by redtop
and basin wildrye. Annual precipitation at the site
ranges from 10 to 14 inches with most of the
precipitation occurring in the spring. The parent
material is alluvium. The unfilled soil had a
pebbly loam texture that was well drained. The
slope at the plot site averages approximately 5% to
10%.
2.1.2 Soil Treatment
The study plot site was ameliorated along with the
rest of the treatment area following the remedial
actions specified in the Remedial Action Work
Plan/Final Design Report (EPA, 1995). The
remedy identified for this treatment area was soil
tilling to 12 inches with the addition of a
neutralizing amendment to ameliorate the low pH
soil conditions. Remediation of the area was
performed by Jordan Contracting, Inc. and their
subcontractors starting in the fall of 2002.
According to the work report from Jordan
Contracting prior to tillage, many of the erosion
rills and gullies were graded using a D8 Dozer and
a CAT 330 excavator. The entire treatment area
was pretilled by Western Reclamation, Inc. with a
Rhome™ disc to approximately 12 inches in mid-
September. Lime kiln dust, procured from
Continental Lime, Inc., was then applied at a rate
of approximately 22.0 tons/acre to neutralize the
soil. Four additional passes were made with the
Rhome™ disc to a depth of 12 inches to
incorporate the lime. Lime incorporation was
completed on November 14, 2002.
In the spring of 2003, fertilizer (12% N, 16%
P2O5, 30% K2O) was applied at a rate of 500 bulk
pounds per acre and incorporated to 6 inches using
a chisel plow. Table 2-2 lists the soil
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characteristics of post-tillage soil data points taken
throughout the study site. The tillage area was
drill seeded in early May 2003 at a rate of
25 pounds per acre (Ib/acre) with "Revegetation
Mix #1" (Table 2-6).
2.1.3 Post- Treatment Soil Sampling
Soil sampling of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed
mixture trials was completed on June 24, 2003,
after planting. The air-dried, unsieved soil
samples were analyzed for pH (1:1 saturated
paste) and total As, cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu),
lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) by EPA Methods
SW 3050/6010 at Energy Laboratories, Inc. in
Billings, Montana. All analyses were performed
in accordance with the laboratory's quality
assurance/quality control manual. At the grass
trial, eight randomly selected treatment units in
each block were subsampled. The eight (0- to
6-inch) composite subsamples collected from a
block were combined and mixed to form one
representative sample. Duplicate soil samples
were taken in Block 1, and alternate soil samples
were taken in Block 3. In the forb/subshrub trial,
four (0- to 6-inch) subsamples were taken per
block to form one representative sample.
Duplicate subsamples were taken in Blocks 1 and
3. In the mixture trial, two (0- to 6-inch)
subsamples were taken per block to form one
representative sample. Duplicate subsamples were
taken in Block 1, and alternate subsamples were
taken in Block 3.
The As and metal concentrations of the post-
planting soil samples were generally moderate
with the exception of Cu. Copper concentrations
within the three trials averaged 832 milligrams per
kilogram (mg/kg) and ranged from 525 mg/kg to
1,080 mg/kg. The average Cu concentrations in
soils collected from the grass, forb/subshrub, and
seed mixture trials were 845 mg/kg, 877 mg/kg,
and 774 mg/kg, respectively. The pH of post-
planting soil samples were all above neutral,
averaging 7.8 and ranging from 7.2 to 8.2.
2.1.4 Planting Design
The study was arranged as three separate trials
(grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture) each in a
randomized complete block design. The three
trials are situated adjacent to each other as shown
in Figure 2-1. The grass, forb/subshrub, and seed
mixture trials are 0.96 acre, 0.44 acre, and 0.14
acre, respectively; total plot size is 1.54 acres.
Between each block, as well as between trials, an
8-foot strip of slender wheatgrass 'Pryor' was
planted to minimize edge effect. The seed bed
was prepared by project personnel on April 22,
2003, using a 5-foot box scraper to level the soil.
Rocks greater than 6 inches in diameter were hand
picked from within the plot boundary. After rock
removal, another pass was made with the box
scraper and spike-tooth harrow to till out tractor
tire compressions.
On May 13, 2003, the seed treatments were
planted using a 4-row Kincaid™ cone drill with
1-foot row spacing and a 0.5-inch planting depth.
The seeding rate for the grass and forb/ subshrub
trials was 50 pure live seeds (PLS) per linear foot
of row. The seeding rate for the seed mixture trial
was based on a total seeding rate of 50 PLS per
square foot. Each component of the mix was
calculated as a percentage of the per-square-foot
rate.
The seed mixtures were formulated for two
distinct applications. An "Upland" blend was
designed for sloping areas with generally low
water infiltration and to provide wildlife habitat.
The "Waste Management Area" (WMA) blend
was designed to provide a vegetative cover for
areas in which remedial options appear to be
limited and their use for containment of large
volumes of waste is logical. The seed mixtures
referred to as "Developed" are the seed
formulations, using commercially available
cultivars, currently specified for use in the
Remedial Action Work Plan/Final Design Report
(ARCO, 2002). The seed mixture previously
referred to as Revegetation Mix #1, planted in the
surrounding treatment area, was synonymous with
the "Upland Developed" seed mixture. The seed
mixtures referred to as "Experimental" are local
ecotypes of the same species from mine-impacted
lands.
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Each treatment unit measured 8 feet by 25 feet and
consisted of eight rows. In the grass and forb/
subshrub trials, each treatment unit was planted
with a single accession. Two exceptions exist due
to seed quantity restraints. In all replications of
the grass trial, western wheatgrass 9081968 was
drilled in only six rows with slender wheatgrass
'Pryor' drilled into the remaining two rows and
broadcast in the unplanted area south of the
forb/subshrub trial. In all replications of the
forb/subshrub trial, cushion buckwheat 9082098
was drilled into only four rows with slender
wheatgrass 'Pryor' drilled into the remaining four
rows. Wooden stakes, spray painted orange and
marked with an identification number, were
installed in the northeast corner of each treatment
unit. Lastly, a single-strand, smooth wire fence
was installed around the perimeter of the plot to
designate plot boundaries and restrict vehicular
trespassing. In mid-July and again in mid-
September, volunteer Canadian thistle was spot
sprayed initially with a 3% solution of 2-4-D
Amine and subsequently with a 3% solution of
Stinger™ (Clopyralid) applied with a backpack
sprayer.
2.1.5 Seeded Species
The species entries consisted of 36 grass
accessions representing 9 grass genera, 14 forb
accessions representing 5 forb genera, 2 subshrub
accessions representing 1 subshrub species, and 4
seed mixtures representing 2 seed mixture
formulations (Tables 2-3 through 2-8). The 15
total genera tested were selected for inclusion in
the study based on results from previous DATC
project studies such as the Initial Evaluation
Planting Study (Marty, 2000) and the Greenhouse
Comparative Evaluation Planting study (Marty,
2001).
Each genus tested included at least one accession
originating from metalliferous soil sites in the
proximity of the Anaconda Smelter National
Priorities List Site, with the exception in one case.
Neither of the two winterfat accessions originated
from metalliferous soils. In this report, accessions
that originated from metalliferous soils are
referred to as "local," whereas accessions
originating from undisturbed soils are referred to
as "nonlocal."
2.1.6 Sampling Methods
Seedling density was the growth response variable
used to assess performance during the 2003
growing season. Measurements were taken using
an 11.81-inch by 19.68-inch quadrat frame that
was randomly placed at five sample locations
within each 8-foot by 25-foot treatment unit. The
sampling sites were computer generated x-y
coordinates originating at the southwest corner of
each experimental unit (Marty, 2003a). The
quadrat was situated with its long axis
perpendicular to the seeded rows so that each
sampling measurement included two rows.
Seedlings rooted within the quadrat frame were
counted. Seeded seedlings, as well as nonseeded
seedlings, were counted and recorded separately.
Photographs of each treatment unit were taken
during sampling events. Density data was
collected on June 24, 2003, to assess emergence
and initial establishment and on August 25, 2003,
to assess subsequent establishment and/or die-off
Data were collected on June 30, July 1, and
September 22-23, 2004, and August 29-30, 2005.
During the early summer sampling, four randomly
located frames (11.81-inch by 19.68-inch) were
used, from which average plant height was
measured, percentage stand was estimated, and
ocular estimates of plant vigor were made.
Random samples were located along rows 2-3 and
6-7 to avoid edge-effect error. In the fall of 2005,
the same random frame locations were used to
estimate percentage stand and plant vigor and to
measure plant height and sample biomass
production. If combined biomass samples from all
four replications did not yield at least 10 grams of
material, additional clipping was done so that there
would be enough biomass for tissue analysis. All
biomass samples were oven dried at 140 °F for
24 hours, weighed, cut into small pieces, and
packaged in plastic zip-lock bags for delivery to
Energy Laboratories, Inc. for tissue analysis.
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2.1.7 Grass Trails (2003)
The grand mean of seedling density data collected
on June 24, 2003, in the grass trial was 5.4
seedlings/square foot (ft2) and ranged from 15.0 to
0.3 seedlings/ft2 as shown in Tables 2-9 and 2-10.
Three accessions of slender wheatgrass ('Pryor',
9081620, and 'San Luis') had the greatest seedling
densities at 15.0, 14.1, and 13.6, respectively.
These results are not surprising as slender
wheatgrass has been recognized for its excellent
seedling vigor and quick establishment and growth
on a variety of soil types (USDA-NRCS, 2006b).
Density data collected 2 months later on August
25, 2003, indicated that these three slender
wheatgrass accessions had significantly greater
densities than 86% of the accessions tested.
However, the locally collected slender wheatgrass
9081620 did not perform significantly better than
'Pryor' or 'San Luis'.
Western wheatgrass ('Rosana' and 9081968) had
13.3 and 12.7 seedlings/ft2, respectively, on June
24. This species is an aggressively rhizomatous,
long-lived grass known to be adapted to a wide
range of soil pH from acidic to basic. Seedling
density data collected on August 25 indicated that
the above accessions also had significantly greater
densities than 86% of the accessions tested
including 'Rodan'.
Seedling density data from the June evaluation
indicated that basin wildrye 9081624 had
significantly greater density (7.8 seedlings/ft2)
than 80.5% of the accessions including the four
other basin wildrye accessions. However, by the
August evaluation, wildrye 9081624 was not
significantly better than wildrye 'Trailhead'. This
accession's success was somewhat unexpected due
to the species' poor to fair seedling vigor and slow
seedling establishment. This species has been
reported to be tolerant of elevated As and heavy
metal concentrations (Taskey, 1972).
The bluebunch wheatgrass accessions ('Goldar'
and 9081636) also performed in the top third of
the field in June and August. In August, both
accessions mentioned above had significantly
better seedling densities than more than 50% of
the accessions. The local accession (9081636) did
not perform significantly better than 'Goldar'.
This species is reported to have fair seedling vigor
and establishment with tolerances to acidic to
slightly alkaline soils (USDA-NRCS, 2006a).
The grand mean for the August 25, 2003,
evaluation was 4.3 seedlings/ft2 and ranged from
14.5 to 0.31 seedlings/ft2. This indicates that
seedling density declined by 1.1 seedlings/ft2 or
20.4% between the June and August evaluations,
possibly due to drought stress.
2.1.8 Grass Trials (2004)
Based on the number of new seedlings found in
2004, many seeds did not germinate during the
2003 growing season. The most notable species
were Indian ricegrass, basin wildrye, and western
wheatgrass. Indian ricegrass has a hard seed coat
and should normally be dormant-seeded in the fall.
The basin wildrye and western wheatgrass can
have delayed germination because of the
combination of a relatively late spring planting
date and subsequent hot, dry weather. The
increase in new seedlings could be expressed in
relatively higher percentage stands but was not
revealed in the biomass production as seedlings
were still quite small at the time of the late
summer biomass sampling.
At the early summer sampling, June 30, 2004, the
top accession, by a significant amount, was
9081620 slender wheatgrass with a 61.3% stand,
54.4-centimeter (cm) average height, and a
3.4 vigor rating. Other 'local source' accessions
that exhibited good survival, stand, and vigor
included 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081621 slender
wheatgrass, 9081621 western wheatgrass,
9081624 basin wildrye, 9081628 Indian ricegrass,
9081635 Canby bluegrass, and 9081636
bluebunch wheatgrass and are shown in Table
2-11 and Table 2-12.
Toward the end of the growing season (September
22, 2004), there was very little change in the top
performing accessions as shown in Table 2-13. Of
the top 16 accessions in the early summer
evaluation, 15 were still ranked as the top
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performing accessions. The 9081620 slender
wheatgrass remained as the top performer by a
significant margin. Of the 'local source'
accessions, 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081621
slender wheatgrass, 9081968 western wheatgrass,
9081635 Canby bluegrass, 9081624 basin wildrye,
and 9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass all show
promise and are among those being increased at
the BPMC for potential release to the commercial
seed industry. Fall biomass production was
relatively low, with only 9081620 slender
wheatgrass producing more than 2,000 kilograms
per hectare (kg/ha) (i.e., 2,083 kg/ha), shown in
Table 2-14. Some of the low production can be
attributed to the number of new seedlings
emerging in 2004. In addition, 2-year-old plants
were often spindly because of the harsh edaphic
conditions.
2.1.9 Grass Trials (2005)
The grasses were evaluated and sampled on
August 30, 2005. Although there had been some
mortality, the top performers of 2003/2004
continue to exhibit their ability to withstand the
harsh edaphic conditions of this site. Slender
wheatgrass (9081620) was the top performer with
an average stand of 75% and average plant height
of 87.5 cm and average biomass production of
8,211 kg/ha. These averages are shown in Tables
2-15, 2-16, and 2-17. Other superior accessions
include 9081633 big bluegrass (stand-43.4%,
biomass-2,506 kg/ha), 9081621 slender
wheatgrass (stand-34.1%, biomass-4,100 kg/ha),
9081635 bluegrass (stand-25.9%, biomass-906
kg/ha), 9081968 western wheatgrass (stand-
21.9%, biomass-800 kg/ha), and 9081624 basin
wildrye (stand-22.2%, biomass-1,844 kg/ha). The
released cultivars, Secar Snake River wheatgrass,
Pryor slender wheatgrass, San Luis slender
wheatgrass, Rosana western wheatgrass, and
Trailhead basin wildrye were among the top
performers; but in most cases, performances were
slightly less than their indigenous counterparts.
2.1.10 Seed Mixture Trial
The forbs included in the seed mixtures in Section
2.1.4 did not emerge; therefore, densities reflect
only emergent grass seedlings as shown in Tables
2-5, 2-6, 2-7, and 2-8. During the establishment
year, the Developed WMA mix had the greatest
seedling density with 10.5 seedlings/ft2 shown in
Table 2-18. The Experimental WMA mix had the
lowest density with 6.3 seedlings/ft2. The two
Developed mixtures averaged 9.9 seedlings/ft2,
and the two Experimental mixtures averaged 6.3
seedlings/ft2. There were no significant
differences among the mixtures at the P = 0.05
level. By the fall of the first year, the Developed
WMA mixture still had the highest density (8.0
seedlings/ft2), and the Experimental WMA
mixture had the lowest density (6.9 seedlings/ft2).
The two Developed mixtures averaged 7.7
seedlings/ft2, and the two Experimental mixtures
averaged 6.9 seedlings/ft2. As in June, no
significant differences were seen among the four
seed mixtures.
At the start of the second growing season in 2004,
the two Experimental mixes had significantly
better stands (Upland Exp.-39.4% and Waste
Mgmt. Exp.-38.1%) than did the Developed
mixes (Upland Dev.-17.3 and Waste Mgmt.
Dev.-15.0%). By fall of the second year, the
stands of all the mixes had increased, but the
Experimental mixes were still significantly better
than the Developed mixes. Biomass production of
the Experimental mixes was also significantly
better than that of the Developed mixes.
During 2005, the percentage stands of all mixes
increased only slightly, but the biomass production
was much higher. The Experimental mixes were
dominated by 9081620 slender wheatgrass, while
the Developed mixes were dominated by Revenue
slender wheatgrass and Critana thickspike
wheatgrass. The WMA Experimental mix topped
all mixes with 8,933 kg/ha of oven-dry biomass
production.
2.1.11 Forb/Subshrub Trial
Ten of the 16 trial entries had no emergence in
2003, and 15 of the 16 entries had less than
0.50 seedlings/ft2 in 2004. These results are
shown in Table 2-19. The subshrub, winterfat
Open Range Germplasm, was the only entry that
demonstrated significant emergence with 9.5
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seedlings/ft2. The lack of forb emergence may be
due to the May 13, 2003, planting date. The forb
species in the study may have some physiological
(after ripening) or physical (hard seed coat) seed
dormancy. To overcome seed dormancy, many
forb seeds generally require several weeks (8 to 14
weeks) of cold chilling. As with the grass species,
some additional germination and emergence was
expected in the spring of 2004; however, this did
not happen with the forb species. The germination
rates for some species such as thickstem aster and
buckwheat are higher with shallow seeding
(USDA-NRCS, 2006a). By the second growing
season, only plants of Open Range winterfat and
9081632 silverleaf phacelia remained alive. There
was no sign of new emergence of any of the
accessions/species in the spring of 2004. The
surviving, mature plants of Open Range
Germplasm winterfat performed well, with some
plants flowering and setting seed. After the third
growing season, plants of Open Range winterfat,
9081632 silverleaf phacelia, Old Works
fuzzytongue penstemon, Richfield firecracker
penstemon, and Northern Cold Desert winterfat
were found to be surviving. New plants of
firecracker penstemon and fuzzytongue penstemon
had germinated 2 years after being planted. The
surviving plants of Open Range winterfat and
9081632 silverleaf phacelia exhibited good vigor,
growth, and seed production.
2.1.12 Tissue Analysis
Following the Fall 2004 and Fall 2005 evaluation
for cover and vigor, each individual unit was
sampled for biomass production. These clippings
from all four blocks, along with additional
clippings of low producing units, made up the
10 gram or greater of oven-dried samples that
were submitted for tissue analysis. Samples were
submitted to Energy Laboratories, Inc. in Billings,
Montana, for determination of heavy-metal
concentrations in as-received plant materials using
EPA Method SW 3050/6010. Metal loads
(concentration in and on the plant tissue) can be
compared to maximum tolerable levels of dietary
minerals for domestic animals (National Research
Council, 2005). The dietary limit of 1 mg Cd/kg
feed for domesticated animals is based on human
food residue considerations and the need to avoid
increases of Cd in the food supply of the United
States. Higher residue levels (less than 10 mg/kg)
for a short period of time would not be expected to
be harmful to animal health; however, these levels
can result in unacceptable Cd concentrations in
kidney, liver, and muscle tissues (ibid, p. 86).
Based on a review of the scientific literature,
ranges of elemental levels for mature leaf tissue
have been presented by Kabata-Pendias and
Pendias (1992). The elemental levels for
generalized plant species into ranges representing
deficient, sufficient, or normal, and excessive or
toxic are shown in Table 2-20.
All tissue samples are unreplicated composites of
samples from random plants in all four
replications of the Stucky Ridge Comparative
Evaluation Trial. Metal loads in the sampled
tissue were generally below toxic levels.
• As was detected in 19 of the 39 samples in
2004 and in 32 of the 40 samples in 2005, with
levels ranging from 5 mg/kg to 35 mg/ kg.
This upper value is slightly above the tolerable
level for domestic livestock (30 mg/kg), and
below that for wildlife (50 mg/kg). However,
the detected levels rank in the 'Excessive or
Toxic' level in plants.
• Cadmium was detected in samples of Rimrock
Indian ricegrass in 2004 and 2005; it was
detected in five accessions (three of which
were in Indian ricegrasses). Only the 2004
Rimrock accession clearly exceeds the
regulatory level for domestic livestock
(1.0 mg/kg) and tolerance by wildlife
(2 mg/kg).
• Copper was detected in all tissue samples,
ranging from 14 mg/kg to 307 mg/kg.
Twenty-three samples (2004) and 32 samples
(2005) exceeded the tolerable level for
domestic livestock (40 mg/kg). Eleven
samples (2004) and 20 samples (2005)
exceeded the tolerable level for wildlife
(55 mg/kg). Since this is a copper smelting
impacted area, high levels of copper are to be
expected.
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• Lead was detected in a sample of tenpetal
blazingstar only (2004), at a level of
9 mg/kg, below the tolerable level for
domestic livestock and wildlife. In 2005, Pb
was detected in only four samples; two of
these values exceeded the livestock limit of
10 mg/kg, but none exceeded the limit for
wildlife species.
• Zinc was detected in all samples, ranging from
14 mg/kg to 175 mg/kg, well below the
tolerable level for domestic livestock
(300 mg/kg) and wildlife (300 mg/kg).
The fact that heavy metal concentrations were
highest in/on alpine blue grass, silverleaf phacelia,
winterfat, and fuzzytongue penstemon was likely
due to the excess dust particles on the low profile
plants and those with leaf pubescence.
2.2 Task 2 - Woody Comparative
Evaluation
Seeds/cuttings thriving in soils affected by metals
were taken from populations of woody plant
material from the Anaconda area (Marty, 2001).
This task was divided into the two subtasks of:
- locating vigorous populations of targeted
woody species situated within or adjacent to
restoration areas; and
- yearly, large-scale seed/cutting collection at
the identified sites.
2.2.1 Test Site
The site chosen for this demonstration is a
0.4-acre study site located approximately 4 miles
southeast of Anaconda, Montana, that has been
impacted by emission fallout from the Upper and
Lower Works as wells as the Washoe smelter
(Figure 1-1). The Upper and Lower Works
smelters operated from 1884 to 1902 when the
Washoe smelter took over smelting operations
until 1980. The study site lies approximately
200 yards east of Mill Creek at an elevation of
5,140 feet. The soils at the site are in the
Haploboroll's Family and consist of deep, well-
drained soils formed in mixed alluvium composed
of granitic, meta-sedimentary, and volcanic rocks.
The alluvium is derived from the Mill Creek
drainage. Cobbles and stones commonly occur on
the soil surface. In 1999, the site was plowed to a
depth of 6 inches, rototilled, and packed.
Laboratory analysis of four composite soil samples
taken after tilling to 6 inches indicated an average
pH of 4.53. Average As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn
concentrations in the four soil samples were
423 mg/kg, 6 mg/kg, 510 mg/kg, 233 mg/kg, and
308 mg/kg, respectively. The complete data are
shown in Table 2-21.
2.2.2 Methods and Materials
The study tested 19 accessions consisting of 2 or 3
accessions of each of the 7 shrub/tree species.
These accessions are shown in Table 2-22. The 6-
to 12-inch seedlings were transplanted on October
18, 2000, in a randomized complete block design
and replicated 20 times. An individual plant of
each accession was represented in each
replication. The seedlings were spaced 4.5 feet
apart within rows and 9 feet apart between rows.
The plot received no supplemental irrigation. The
spring following planting, Vispore™ (3-foot by
3-foot) tree mats were installed on all entries to
suppress weeds and retard soil moisture
evaporation.
Plant survival, height, and vigor were assessed in
May 21 and August 14, 2001; May 20 and August
20, 2002; May 28 and August 26, 2003; June 30,
2004; and August 29, 2005. Plant height was
measured in centimeters to the top of live foliage.
Vigor was measured on a scale of 1 to 9, with 1
representing excellent vigor and 9 representing
plant mortality.
2.2.3 Results and Discussion
Overall, survival of the entries in the Woody
Comparative Evaluation Plot (CEP) in 2001 was
local 91.4% and nonlocal 79.2%. The complete
results are shown in Table 2-23. Edaphic
conditions had taken their toll, as survival
decreased each subsequent year; 2002-local 84.3%
and nonlocal 52.5%, 2003-local 73.6% and
nonlocal 43.8%, 2004-local 70.7% and nonlocal
40%, 2005-local 61.4% and nonlocal 37.5%.
Anaconda's 30-year average annual precipitation
10
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was 13.93 inches. The site was dehydrated in
2000, the year of establishment, with precipitation
at 9.57 inches. However, the years following were
near or above normal; 2001-13.99 inches, 2002-
16.23 inches, 2003-15.42 inches, 2004-
13.37 inches, and 2005-15.75 inches. Therefore,
precipitation in Anaconda was not likely a major
factor in plant mortality.
In all species except common snowberry, the
"local" source had equal or better survival than the
"nonlocal" sources. As shown in Table 2-23, the
superior accessions included ponderosa and
lodgepole pines, common snowberry, and silver
buffaloberry. Based on survival and growth, the
best overall performing species have been
ponderosa pine followed by common snowberry,
buffaloberry, and Woods' rose. All accessions of
lodgepole pine have performed poorly.
The average growth over the first 4-year period for
the local source material was 5.9 inches, while the
nonlocal material averaged 4.07 inches of growth.
In 2005, the local material averaged 5.29 inches of
growth, while the nonlocal averaged 3.43 inches.
Generally, the local source material outgrew the
nonlocal material except for the two snowberry
species and the lodgepole pine. Some of the
shrubs exhibited leader mortality or cropping by
wildlife, which resulted in negative overall
growth. The accessions with the greatest sustained
growth were common snowberry (Ravalli
County), wax current (Deer Lodge County),
buffaloberry (Deer Lodge County), Woods' rose
(Deer Lodge County), and western snowberry
(Wyoming source).
Live plants were rated on a scale from 1 to 9
(1= highest rating) based on a visual assessment of
their vigor or robustness. Dead plants were
entered as missing values. The vigor rating for
local source material was somewhat better than the
nonlocal source material but not significantly so:
2001-local 3.8 vs. nonlocal 5.4, 2002-local 3.9
vs. nonlocal 4.8, 2003-local 5.1 vs. nonlocal 5.9,
2004-local 5.1 vs. nonlocal 5.9, and 2005-local
5.3 vs. nonlocal 5.9. No patterns in superior vigor
seem to exist by species or origin other than the
local material has slightly better vigor rating than
the nonlocal.
The top-ranking accession for vigor was wax
current followed by buffaloberry. As in the other
categories, the lodgepole pine accessions had the
poorest overall performance.
2.3 Task 3 - High Quality Seed "Bank"
A quality seed "bank" was established and
maintained at BPMC. This task resulted in wild
and cultivated seed that met or exceeded the
Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies
criteria (AOSCA, 2003). All seed increase
activities took place at the U.S. Department of
Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation
Service (USDA-NRCS) Plant Materials Center
near Bridger, Montana. The 140-acre research
farm was set up for irrigated seed production of
conservation plants for use in Montana and
Wyoming. Breeders and Foundation seed of
released plant materials are produced at the BPMC
for distribution to commercial seed growers
through the Foundation Seed programs at Montana
State University-Bozeman and the University of
Wyoming-Laramie. The BPMC was set up to use
both sprinkler and furrow irrigation. Seed increase
blocks or fields are established by direct seeding,
transplanting of container-grown stock, and
transplanting/establishment of seed production
orchards (woody plant material). Special
consideration must be given to properly isolate
DATC project material from other releases or test
material of the same species. Cross-pollinated
species are isolated at least 900 feet apart, while
self-fertilized species are isolated at least 100 feet
apart.
2.3.1 Seeding
All seeding was done with a two-row, double-disk
planter equipped with depth bands to obtain a
uniform 0.25- to 0.5-inch seeding depth. Seed was
planted in rows spaced 3 feet apart to
accommodate the gated pipe irrigation water
delivery system. Depending on the species,
planting was done either as a dormant-fall planting
(October 15 to December 15) or as an early spring
planting (April 1 to May 15). Seeds that have a
11
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dormancy or after-ripening requirement are
dormant-fall seeded to obtain natural stratification.
2.3.2 Transplanting
For small lots of seed that need seed increase, the
limited seed supply was planted into Cone-
tainers™ and transplanted into fields following
6 months of growth under greenhouse conditions.
A mechanical transplanter was used, resulting in
uniform 14 inches within-row spacing. This
method has been used on alpine bluegrass, western
wheatgrass, bluebunch wheatgrass, fuzzy-tongue
penstemon, silverleaf phacelia, wooly cinquefoil,
and tufted hairgrass.
2.3.3 Woody Transplants
All woody material was container grown and
transplanted as 2-0 stock into seed production
orchards. In some cases, a weed-barrier was used
to reduce weed establishment within the rows,
while in others, cultivation was used to keep
between-row spaces weed-free. Most shrubs will
not initiate seed production until the plants are 5 to
6 years old.
2.3.4 Production Fields
The species that were grown for seed production
are shown in Table 2-24. Some of the woody
increase orchards had not reached the maturity
level necessary for seed production; however, seed
will be harvested once these are productive and
seed will be made available to other researchers
and potentially released to the commercial plant
production industry.
2.3.5 Weed Control
The preferred method for weed control was by
either cultivation or hand roguing. However,
chemical weed control was often necessary. With
everything established in rows, between-row
cultivation was easily accomplished with standard
cultivators. All chemical applications are required
to be completed prior to flowering or late in the
season when plants have become dormant.
2.3.6 Fertilization
No fertilizers were added to field increase plots
until the fall of the first growing season, and then
every fall for the life of the stand. A standard mix
of 80 Ib N/acre and 40 Ib P2O5/acre was used on
most species. Fall applications were applied in
granular form from September 15 to October 15.
2.3.7 Irrigation
The Bridger area receives an average of
11.3 inches of annual precipitation, making it
necessary to provide supplemental water to
improve seed production. Hand-moved sprinklers
were available for plant establishment if natural
precipitation was inadequate. Once established,
furrow irrigation was used. Critical irrigation
times are early summer prior to flowering, after
pollination as seeds are maturing, and during the
fall when seedhead primordia are developing for
the following year.
2.3.8 Seed Harvest
Depending on the species, size of stand, and
amount of seed, harvesting can be accomplished in
a variety of ways. Seed can be hand stripped,
direct combined, swathed/combined, or head
harvested/dried/combined. Seed was harvested at
a 20% to 30% moisture level and dried to less than
12% for cleaning and storage. Seed that was
officially released and made available to
commercial growers must meet standards
established by the Montana Seed Growers'
Association and be analyzed for purity and
germination by the Montana Seed Testing
Laboratory at Montana State University.
2.3.9 Post-Harvest Maintenance
Following harvest, seed production stands were
mowed to remove excess biomass and stimulate
tillering. The stands were also cultivated prior to
fall fertilization and irrigation.
2.3.10 Seed Cleaning
A variety of standard seed cleaning equipment was
used to clean the DATC seed, both wildland
collections and field seed increase. A hammermill
was used to further thresh seed or remove
appendages. Three different sizes of screen-
fanning mills are available for cleaning seed based
on size, shape, and weight. An indent cylinder
was used to remove round weed seed from
12
-------
elongated grass seed, and a small gravity table was
used to make separations based on specific
gravity.
2.3.11 Seed Storage
All cleaned seed were stored in cloth-mesh bags
on shelves in the basement of the office building at
the BPMC. The ambient conditions at BPMC are
quite good for seed storage as there was
consistently low relative humidity and uniform
cool temperatures in the basement. Under these
conditions, most native seeds will remain viable
for up to 10 years.
2.3.12 Seed Accessioning and Inventory
The USDA-NRCS Plant Materials nationwide
network uses the Plant Material Operational and
Management System for the accessioning,
inventory, and distribution of all lots of seed and
plants handled through the Plant Materials
network. All seed was inventoried to the nearest
10 grams (Table 2-25).
2.4 Task 4 - Plant Releases
This task involved developing release notices in
cooperation with the appropriate partners
following USDA-NRCS Plant Materials
guidelines (2000).
The seeds and plants that are available to
reclamationists are cultivar releases from
universities, USDA Plant Material Centers, the
USDA Agricultural Research Service, or private
plant breeders. To be released as a cultivar, the
germplasm must be extensively tested, reviewing
primary traits through multiple generations, and
field-testing to determine range of adaptability.
This process takes at least 10 years with
herbaceous plant material and can take 20 or more
years for woody plants. Other sources of native
plants are wildland collections and predamage
plant salvage.
In recent years, the demand for native, indigenous
plant material has resulted in the development of
an alternate, quicker mechanism for the release of
plant materials known as "Pre-Varietal release."
Through this process, plant propagules can be
released to the commercial seed and nursery
industries in a timely manner, but at the expense of
extensive field-testing. Germplasm was managed
through the certified seed agencies, maintaining
the same quality, purity, and germination
standards of cultivar releases. There are three
categories of Pre-Varietal releases:
• Source Identified - With this classification, a
person can locate and collect seed from a
specific native site and have the seed certified
by source only. A representative from a seed
certification agency must inspect the
collection site prior to harvest, documenting
the identity of the species, elevation,
latitude/longitude, and associated species. The
collector can certify the seed as being from a
particular source and of a standard quality and
sell the seed directly to a customer. The
collector can also take that seed and establish
seed production fields, raising up to two
generations past the original collection. This
product must be included in a seed
certification program to be able to certify the
seed as 'Source Identified' germplasm.
Through this process, seed can be certified the
year of collection or in 2 years when increase
in seed fields begin.
• Selected - This category was for plant
breeders who assemble and evaluate multiple
collections of a species, making a selection of
the superior accession or bulk or cross-
pollinate the superior accessions. This release
process can take as few as 5 years but can
claim only that one accession or bulk of
accessions has been found to be superior for
the conditions under which it was tested. No
field-testing or the testing of progeny was
required.
• Tested - If the progeny of a superior
germplasm was tested to ensure that the
desired traits continued to manifest in
subsequent generations, the germplasm
qualifies were released as a tested germplasm.
This process can take 6 to 8 years in
herbaceous plant material and considerably
longer with woody plants. The only
13
-------
difference between tested and cultivar releases
is the extensive field-testing of a cultivar.
The Pre-Varietals release mechanism has been
used extensively on native plant materials that are
not readily available on the commercial market,
from seed growers, nurseries, or wildland
collectors. Through this process, native plant
material can be placed into the commercial seed
and nursery industry sooner but with limited
information on range of adaptation, ease of
establishment in various climate and edaphic
conditions, and longevity.
2.5 Goal 1 - Field Testing
The potential releases were field tested at the
Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site and monitored
for adaptation and interspecies compatibility.
2.6 Goal 2 - Technology Transfer
To attain this goal, educational materials
pertaining to the DATC project were developed
for distribution to the reclamation scientific
community, seed producers, and commercial
reclamation specialists. The project research
results and plant products have been or will be
publicized through articles in reclamation journals,
symposium proceedings, and NRCS' Technical
Notes, Plant Guides, Fact Sheets, and Plant
Materials newsletters.
2.6.1 DA TC Project Releases
The Conservation Districts of Montana and
Wyoming own the land and facilities at the BPMC
and lease to the USDA-NRCS. The USDA-NRCS
Plant Materials Center has been in operation since
1959 and has established a cooperative
relationship with the Agricultural Experiment
Station network of Montana State University-
Bozeman and the University of Wyoming -
Laramie. The Plant Materials Center has
experience in the release of conservation plants,
both introduced and native, in cooperation with
Montana State University and the University of
Wyoming. Breeders and Foundation seed was
produced at the BPMC, making Foundation seed
available to the commercial seed industry for the
production of Certified seed. In the case of Pre-
Varietal releases, the BPMC produces GI
(Generation 1) seed for distribution to growers
who will produce G2 and G3 under the Certified
Seed Program. Once a release was made, the
releasing agency was responsible for maintaining a
supply of GI (Pre-Varietal release) or Foundation
(Cultivar release) seed for as long as seed/plants of
the release are in demand.
The DATC project has identified numerous plants
(grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees) that exhibit
tolerance of acidic and metalliferous soil
conditions and have the potential for use by
reclamationists in restoration efforts of severely
impacted sites. Thus far, the DATC project has
been instrumental in the release of germplasm
from three plants:
- Washoe Selected germplasm basin wildrye
(Leymus cinereus);
— Old Works Source Identified germplasm
fuzzy-tongue penstemon (Penstemon
eriantherus); and
- Prospectors Selected germplasm common
snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)
Information brochures have been published on
these three releases and are distributed to potential
seed growers and seed-purchasing customers.
Foundation Quality (Gi) seed of Washoe basin
wild rye has been distributed to two commercial
seed growers in Montana, and seed of Old Works
fuzzy-tongue penstemon has been distributed to
one grower in Washington and Idaho. No growers
have yet shown interest in the production of
Prospectors common snowberry.
During the winter of 2006, Copperhead Selected
class germplasm slender wheatgrass (9081620)
was submitted for release consideration to the
Variety Release Committee at Montana State
University and the Pure Seed Committee at the
University of Wyoming. This accession of slender
wheatgrass has performed exceptionally well on
the amended Stucky Ridge Trial site. As the
release was successful, GI seed was made
available to commercial growers in the summer of
2006.
14
-------
The DATC project has established seed increase
fields of all plant species that have exhibited
superior establishment and performance in field
test plantings in the Anaconda vicinity on smelter
and mining-impacted sites. The USDA-NRCS
Plant Materials Center, in cooperation with the
Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District, plans to
continue releasing superior plant materials that
have exhibited tolerance of acid/heavy metal-
contaminated sites. These potential releases are:
- 9081620-slender wheatgrass (Efymus
trachycaulus);
- 9081968-western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum
smithii);
- 9081636-bluebunch wheatgrass
(Pseudoroegneria spicata);
- 9081633-big bluegrass (Poa secundd);
- 9081628-Indian ricegrass Achnatherum
hymenoides);
- 9081619-redtop (Agrostis giganted);
- 9081632-silverleaf phacelia (Phacelia
hastata);
- 9076274-woolly cinquefoil (Potentilla
hippiand);
- 9078675-stiffstem aster (Symphyotrichum
chilensis);
- 9081334-silver buffaloberry (Shepherdia
argentea);
- 9081638-Woods' rose (Rosa woodsii); and
- 9081623-horizontal juniper (Juniperus
horizontalis).
Opportunity Selected class germplasm big
bluegrass (9081633) will be submitted to the
Montana State University/University of Wyoming
review committees in the winter of 2007. If the
release is approved, GI seed will be available to
commercial growers in the spring of 2008.
Bluebunch wheatgrass (9081636) is being
considered for release in fiscal year 2008. Other
releases within the next 3 years include 9081968
western wheatgrass, 9081632 silverleaf phacelia,
and 9081334 silver buffaloberry (Deer Lodge
Valley Conservation District and USDA-Bridger
Plant Materials Center, 2007).
2.7 Comments Regarding Laboratory
Quality Assurance/Quality Control
Leaf-and-stalk biomass plus surface (0- to 6-inch)
soil samples were submitted by BPMC to Energy
Laboratories, Inc. throughout the MWTP phase of
this project; MSB sampled surface soils once at the
Lowland CEP plot (Figure 1-1) and submitted
them to the HKM Laboratory. Both laboratories
used EPA Methods SW 3050B for sample
preparation and 601 OB for instrumental
determination of the target metals/As in these
sample types. The key variations in sample
preparation methodologies are as follows:
• Energy Laboratories air dries samples at
temperatures slightly above ambient
(~30 °C) without subsequent grinding or
sieving materials prior to digestion; while
• HKM dries the soils at 40 °C for at least 24
hours, followed by sieving the soils through a
10-mesh screen, prior to digesting the 2-mm
fraction.
Although field sampling and sample preparation
varied, the similar results reported in Table 2-26
indicate the general representativeness of these
data to the 0.8-acre plot. Both laboratories
reported acceptable results for laboratory control
standards, spike recoveries, and relative percent
differences (RPD) for duplicate analyses (i.e., as
required by Method 601 OB).
15
-------
Grass Trial Block 1 Block 2
4 ACHY Nezpar
24 PASM Rosana
19 LICE Washes
28 POAL 1858
26 POAL 01-13-1
21 LECI Trailhead
IfiELTRSunLuis
25 POAL 901 627 J
1 1 DECE Nortrtn
271>OALGruening
l4FJ.TRPryw
10 DECE 13970176
3 ACHY Rirmoek
1 2 ELTR 90S 1620
30 POSE Sherman
1 7 LECI 908 1624
36 ELWA Secar
7 AGGl 9076266
22 P ASM 908 1968
6 AUOI 9081619
8 AGGl Streaker
13 ELTR 908 1621
29 POSE 9081633
18 LECI 9081625
33POSP9081322
15 ELTR Revenue
35PSSPGoldar
1 ACHY 9081628
9 DECE 9076290
3 1 POSE Canbar
34PSSP9081636
32 POSP 9081635
2 ACHY 908 1629
5 AOCH 9076276
23 PASM Rod.it
20 LECI Magnar
4 WMA Dcv
1 UP Exp
2 UP Dev
3 WMA Exp
ISElTRSanLuis
32 POSP 9081635
22 PASM 908 1968
2 ACHY 9081629
1 5 ELTR Revenue
36 ELWA Secar
13 ELTR 908 1 621
1 ACHY 9081628
6 AGO! 908 16 19
26POAL01-I3-1
1 ACHY Rimrock
19 LECI Washoe
12 ELTR 908 1620
27 POAL Omening
17 LECI 908 1624
5 AOG1 9076276
30 POSE Sherman
10 DECE 13970176
1 1 DECE NorUan
34PSSP9081636
18 LECI 9081625
8 AGT.I Streaker
33 POSP 908 13 22
21 LECITrailhcad
29 POSE 9081633
9 DECE 9076290
14 ELTR Pryor
23 PASM Rodan
28 POAL 1858
24 PASM Rosana
3 1 POSE Canbar
4 ACHY Nwpar
35 PSSPOoldar
20 LECI Magnai
7 AOCil 9076266
25 POAL 9016273
Seed Mixtu
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
1 UP Exp
4 WMA Dev
30 POSE Sherman
23 PPSM Lodonn
29 POSE 9081633
35PSSPGoldar
32 POSP 9081635
7 AGO! 9076266
21 LECI Trailhead
5 AOOI 9076276
1 ACHY 908 1628
26POAL01-13-1
3 ACHY Rimrock
27 POAL Omening
13 ELTR 9081621
34PSSP9081636
10 DECE 13970 176
1 5 ELTR Revenue
18 LECI 9081625
12 ELTR 908 1620
25 POAL 9016273
2 ACHY 9081629
8 AOOI Streaker
16ELTRSanlJiis
22 PASM 908 1968
1 1 DECE Nortran
4 ACHY Nczpar
33 POSP 9081322
28 POAL 1858
24 PASM Rotana
20 LECI Magrmr
36 ELWA Sccar
6 AOOI 9081619
31 POSE Canbar
14 ELTR Pryor
17 LECI 9081624
9 DECE 9076290
19 LECI Wuhoe
e Trial
4 WMA Dev
1 UP Exp
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
20 LECI Mignar
36ELNASecar
1 1 DECE NorUan
1SLEC1 908 1625
10 DECE 13970176
8 AGGl Streaker
4 ACHY Nezpur
30 POSE Sherman
35 PSSP Ooldar
23 PASM Rodan
16 ELTR San Luis
25 POAL 9016273
29 POSE 9081633
12 ELTR 908 1620
9 DECE 9076290
27 POAL Omening
6 AGOI 9081619
5 AGGl 9076276
13 ELTR 908 1621
32 POSP 9081635
2 ACHY 908 1629
33 POSP 9081322
26 POAL 01-13-1
7 AGGl 9076266
1 5 ELTR Revenue
22 PASM 9081968
28 POAL 1858
31 POSE Canbar
14 ELTR Pryor
24 PASM Roswa
19 LECI Washot
34 PSSP 9081636
17 LECI 908 1 624
3 ACHY R»mrock
1 ACHY 908 1628
21 LECI Trailhead
1 UP Exp
4 WMA Dev
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4
10PHHA9081632
12 POOI 908 1679
EROV 9082098
1 4 SYCH 9078675
16SYCH 5255-RS
6 PEER Old Works
4 KRLA NCD
9 PEVE Clearwaicr
7 PEEA Richfield
1 1 PHHA 9003
3 ERUM 01-206-1
15 SYCH 9081678
8 PEST Handera
1 3 POHI 9076274
5 KRLA Op- Range
2 ERUM 450
12P(XH9081679
9 PEVE Clearwaler
5 KRLA Orange
4 KRLA NCD
16 SYCH 5255-RS
1 3 POI 11 9076274
10 PHHA 908 1632
15 SYCH 908 1678
11 PHHA 9003
8 PEST Bandera
2 ERUM 450
I EROV 9082098
6 PEER Old Works
3 ERUM 01-206-1
7 PEEA Richfield
1 4 SYCH 9078675
g PEST Bundcra
5 KRLAOp.Range
4 KRLA NCD
15 SYCH 9081678
9 PEVE Clearwaler
1 EROV908209X
6 PEER Old Work*
7 PEEA Richfield
12 POOR 9081679
11 PHHA 9003
10 PHHA 908 1632
2 ERUM 450
1 3 POHI 9076274
16 SYCH 5255-RS
14 SYCH 9078675
11 PHHA 9003
10 PHHA 9081632
5 KRl^AOp.Range
13 POHI 9076274
6 PEER Old Works
8 PEST Handera
15 SYCH 908 1678
7 PEEA Richfield
4 KRLA NCD
12 POOR 9081679
2 ERUM 450
9 PEVE Clearwatcr
1 EROV 9082098
14 SYCH 9078675
16 SYCH 5255-RS
3 ERUM 01-206-1
Block 3 Block 4
Not to Scale
Forb/Subshrub Trial
Figure 2-1 Layout of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials at the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting.
See Species Index (p. ix) for plant codes and Tables 2-5 through 2-8 for seed mixture formulations. (Source: Marty, 2003b).
-------
Table 2-1. Pretillage Soils Data in the Proximity of the Plot Site (ARCO, 2002, May)
Soil Sample Station
94S-SR-71
94S-SR-71
94S-SR-73
94S-SR-73
99-098A
99-098B
99-098C
99-098D
99-098E
99-099A
99-099B
99-099C
99-099D
99-099E
99-123A
99-123B
99-123C
99-123D
99-123E
99-163A
99-163B
99-163C
99-163D
99-163E
Depth
(inches)
0-2
2-8
0-2
2-8
0-2
2-6
0-6
6-12
12-18
0-2
2-6
0-6
6-12
12-18
0-2
2-6
0-6
6-12
12-18
0-2
2-6
0-6
6-12
12-18
Arsenic
(mg/kg)
495.0
163.0
489.0
95.8
656.0
167.0
537.0
256.0
Copper
(mg/kg)
1660.0
1320.0
1370.0
1020.0
1530.0
1530.0
2180.0
1430.0
Zinc
(mg/kg)
419.0
276.0
303.0
245.0
425.0
332.0
493.0
365.0
Saturated Paste
pH (s.u.)
4.70
4.90
4.30
4.60
4.20
7.60
7.80
4.00
7.30
7.70
4.40
4.80
6.30
4.00
6.20
17
-------
Table 2-2. Post-Planting Grass, Forb/Subshrub, and Seed Mixture Trial (0- to 6-inch) Composite Soil Sample Analysis
Sample
Identification
GR1
GR2
GR3
GR4
GDR1
GDR3
FR1
FR2
FR3
FR4
FBI
FD3
MR1
MR2
MR3
MR4
MDR1
MDR3
Sample Description
Grass Trial, Block 1
Grass Trial, Block 2
Grass Trial, Block 3
Grass Trial, Block 4
Grass Trial, Block 1 , Dupl.
Grass Trial, Block 3, Alt.
Forb Trial, Block 1
Forb Trial, Block 2
Forb Trial, Block 3
Forb Trial, Block 4
Forb Trial, Block 1, Dupl.
Forb Trial, Block 3, Dupl.
Seed Mix. Trial, Block 1
Seed Mix. Trial, Block 2
Seed Mix. Trial, Block 3
Seed Mix. Trial, Block 4
Seed Mix. Trial, Block 1, Dupl.
Seed Mix. Trial, Block 3, Alt.
pH As Cd
(s.u.) (mg/kg) (mg/kg)
8.2 120 1
8.1 117 1
7.9 132 1
8.0 212 2
7.7 121 1
7.7 178 1
8.0 115 1
7.2 127 2
7.7 153 2
7.6 127 2
8.0 91 NDf
7.9 106 1
8.0 39 1
7.5 367 2
7.7 39 ND
7.8 257 2
7.4 130 1
8.1 29 ND
Cu Pb Zn
(mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg)
797 35 174
906 34 177
833 43 195
985 61 228
703 39 153
845 57 201
774 38 185
888 45 182
1010 45 220
1080 40 210
681 31 170
828 33 171
721 6 143
909 97 226
706 12 161
857 91 209
925 35 165
525 9 153
f ND: Not detected at the reporting limit.
Table 2-3. Forb and
Subshrub Treatments Included in
Species Identification
Number Genus & Species
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Eriogonum ovalifolium
Eriogonum umbellatum
Eriogonum umbellatum
Krascheninnikovia lantana
Krascheninnikovia lantana
Penstemon eriantherus
Penstemon eatonii
Penstemon strictus
Penstemon venustus
Phacelia hastata
Phacelia hastata
Potentilla gracilis
Potentilla hippiana
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
the Forb/Subshrub Trial
Accession/Variety
9082098
9082271
9082273
Northern Cold Desert
Germplasm
Open Range Germplasm
Old Works Germplasm
Richfield Selected
'Bandera' 477980
Clearwater Selected
9081632
9082275
9081679
9076274
9078675
9081678
9082274
Origin
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Utah
Idaho
Composite from Utah & Idaho
Composite from Montana &
Wyoming
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Sevier County, Utah
Torrance County, New Mexico
Clearwater River area, Idaho
Deer Lodge County, Montana
California
California
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Colorado
Unknown
18
-------
Table 2-4. Grass Treatments Included in the Grass Trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands
Species Identification
Number
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
Genus & Species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa secunda (ampla)
Poa secunda (ampla)
Poa secunda (canbyi)
Poa species
Poa species
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus wawawaiensis
Accession/Variety
9081628
9081629
'Rimrock'
'Nezpar'
9076276
9081619
9076266
'Streaker'
9076290
9082620
'Nortran'
9081620
9081621
Try or'
'Revenue'
'San Luis'
9081624
9081625
Washoe Germplasm
'Magnar'
'Trailhead'
gosiges1
'Rodan'
'Rosana'
9016273
9082259
'Gruening'
9082266
9081633
'Sherman'
'Canbar'
9081635
9081322
9081636
'Goldar'
'Secar'
Origin
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Yellowstone County, Montana
White Bird, Idaho
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Illinois
Silver Bow County, Montana
California
Alaska
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Carbon County, Montana
Saskatchewan, Canada
Rio Grande County, Colorado
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Saskatchewan, Canada
Musselshell County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Morton County, North Dakota
Rosebud County, Montana
Gallatin County, Montana
British Columbia, Canada
France/Switzerland
Unknown
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Sherman County, Oregon
Columbia County, Washington
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Lewis & Clark County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Asotin County, Washington
Washington
19
-------
Table 2-5. Upland Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation
Species Identification
Number
1
Table 2-6. Upland Areas
Species Identification
Number
2
Genus & Species
GRASSES:
Achnatherum
hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Poa secunda (ampla)
Pseudoroegneria
spicata
FORBS:
Aster chilensis
Penstemon eriantherus
Potentilla hippiana
Accession/Variety
9081629
9081620
Washoe Germ.
9081968
90816273
9081633
9081636
9078675
Old Works Germ.
9076274
Origin
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Gallatin County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Silver Bow County, Montana
Seed Mixture
Percentage
15.0
15.0
15.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
15.0
2.5
5.0
2.5
- Developed Seed Mix Formulation
Genus & Species
GRASSES:
Achnatherum
hymenoides
Elymus lanceolatus
Elymus trachycaulus
Festuca ovina
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda (ampla)
Pseudoroegneria
spicata
FORBS:
Achillea lanulosa
Artemisia frigida
Linum lewisii
Accession/Variety
'Nezpar'
'Criteria'
'Revenue'
'Covar'
'Magnar'
'Rosana'
'Sherman'
'Goldar'
Great Northern
9082258
'Appar'
Origin
White Bird, Idaho
Hill County, Montana
Saskatchewan, Canada
Central Turkey
Saskatchewan, Canada
Rosebud County, Montana
Sherman County, Oregon
Asotin County, Washington
Flathead County, Montana
Unknown
Custer County, South Dakota
Seed Mixture
Percentage
5.0
15.0
15.0
10.0
15.0
10.0
14.5
10.0
2.5
0.5
2.5
20
-------
Table 2-7. Waste Management Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation
Species Identification Genus & Species
Number
3 GRASSES:
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia
caespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda (ampla)
Stipa comata
FORBS:
Aster chilensis
Table 2-8. Waste Management Areas - Developed
Species Identification Genus & Species
Number
4 GRASSES:
Agropyrum
intermedium
Bromus inermis
Elymus lanceolatus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secumda (ampla)
Stipa viridula
FORBS:
Medicago saliva
Accession/Variety
9076276
9076290
9081620
Washoe Germ.
9081968
9081633
9078314
9078675
Seed Mix Formulation
Accession/Variety
'Greenar'
'Manchar'
'Critana'
'Revenue'
'Magnar'
'Sherman'
9082255
'Ladak'
Origin
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Silver Bow County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Deer Lodge County, Montana
Origin
Former USSR
Manchuria, China
Hill County, Montana
Saskatchewan, Canada
Saskatchewan, Canada
Sherman County, Oregon
Washington
Kashmir, India
Seed Mixture
Percentage
15
10
15
15
5
10
10
10
Seed Mixture
Percentage
10
15
10
15
15
10
10
15
21
-------
Table 2-9. Density (seedlings per square foot) Sampled on 6/24/03, at Stucky Ridge
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Poa species
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Poa species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpine
Accession
Tryor'
9081620
'San Luis'
'Rosana'
9081968
9081636
9081624
'Secar'
9081621
'Goldar'
'Nezpar'
'Revenue'
9081633
'Magnar'
Trailhead'
'Rodan'
9081625
Washoe Germplasm
'Sherman'
9081619
9016273
9081635
9076276
9082266
9081322
'Rimrock'
9076290
'Canbar'
'Nortran'
9076266
9081629
'Streaker'
9082259
9081628
9082260
'Gruening'
Species ID
14
12
16
24
22
34
17
36
13
35
4
15
29
20
21
23
18
19
30
6
25
32
5
28
33
3
9
31
11
7
2
8
26
1
10
27
Density/ft2
14.97
14.09
13.63
13.31
12.72
11.75
11.25
9.47
9.34
9.09
8.94
8.75
7.13
6.13
5.81
5.66
3.84
3.66
3.13
2.38
2.34
1.88
1.75
1.72
1.31
1.28
1.28
1.22
1.00
0.81
0.78
0.75
0.66
0.59
0.56
0.34
Mean Separation
A*
AB
AB
AB
AB
BC
BC
CD
CD
CDE
CDEF
CDEFG
DEFG
EFGH
FGH
GH
HI
FflJ
FflJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
J
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the Duncan's Multiple
Range Test
22
-------
Table 2-10. Density (seedlings per square foot) Sampled on 8/25/03, at Stucky Ridge
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus -wawawaiensis
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Poa alpine
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpine
Poa species
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpine
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Accession
9081620
'San Luis'
Tryor'
'Rosana'
9081968
'Revenue'
9081624
'Goldar'
9081636
'Secar'
'Nezpar'
9081621
'Rodan'
9081633
Trailhead'
'Magnar'
9081625
'Sherman'
9081619
Washoe Germplasm
9076276
9082266
9082259
9076266
'Rimrock'
9016273
9081635
'Nortran'
9081322
9081628
'Gruening'
'Canbar'
9076290
9082260
'Streaker'
9081629
Species ID
12
16
14
24
22
15
17
35
34
36
4
13
23
29
21
20
18
30
6
19
5
28
26
7
3
25
32
11
33
1
27
31
9
10
8
2
Density/ft2
14.47
13.44
12.13
12.00
11.59
8.38
7.81
7.28
7.16
6.56
6.53
6.09
5.75
5.16
4.91
3.00
2.44
2.34
2.28
2.16
1.47
1.25
1.03
0.97
0.91
0.91
0.91
0.88
0.72
0.59
0.53
0.47
0.44
0.38
0.34
0.31
Mean Separation
A*
A
A
A
A
B
BC
BC
BC
BC
BC
BC
BCD
CDE
CDE
DEF
EF
EF
EF
EF
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the Duncan's Multiple Range Test
23
-------
Table 2-11. Percentage Stand and Vigor of Grass Trials on Stucky Ridge Plot on 6/30/04
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Accession
9081620
Rimrock
9081633
9081621
Pryor
9081968
Nezpar
9081624
Secar
Revenue
San Luis
9081628
Rosana
Trailhead
9081635
9081636
Washoe
Magnar
Rodan
9081619
9081625
Goldar
9081629
9076276
Sherman
1—13—1
9076290
9081322
9016273
9076266
1858
Nortran
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
13970176
Stand (%)
61.3
31.3
31.3
28.4
26.9
26.7
25.3
20.8
20
19.7
18.6
18.3
16.9
15.1
15
14.5
12.8
12.2
11.8
10.7
10.1
10
8.6
8.1
6.2
4.1
4
3.6
3.3
3.1
1.4
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.4
0.2
a*
b
b
be
bed
bed
bcde
bcdef
bcdefg
cdefg
cdefgh
cdefgh
defghi
efghij
efghij
efghijk
fghijkl
fghijkl
fghijklm
fghijklm
fghijklm
fghijklm
ghijklm
hijklm
ijklm
jklm
jklm
klm
klm
klm
1m
m
m
m
m
m
Vigor (1-9)
3.4
4.8
3.3
4.8
4.8
4.9
5
4.4
4.6
4.8
4.8
5.6
4.75
4.8
3.3
5.3
5
5.3
5.3
3.2
5.5
5
5.7
2.6
4.8
3.3
4.2
4.3
4.6
2.5
4.5
2.1
4
5.2
6.2
5.3
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the least significant
difference (LSD) Mean Comparison method
24
-------
Table 2-12. Average Plant Height of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Plots Measured 6/30/04
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Elymus -wawawaiensis
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Deschampsia caespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpine
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Accession
9081620
9081621
9076276
9081619
9081633
Secar
9081635
Goldar
9076266
Pry or
9081624
9081322
Nezpar
Trailhead
San Luis
9076290
Revenue
Rosana
Rimrock
Magnar
Washoe
Rodan
9081636
9081968
9081625
Streaker
9081628
1-13—1
9081629
13970176
Sherman
Canbar
Nortran
9016273
Gruening
1858
Height
54.4
34.2
33.3
27.1
26.5
24
23.3
22.5
21
18.5
17.9
17.5
16.9
16.1
14.5
14.5
14.3
13.5
13
12.8
12.5
12.3
12
11.3
10.6
10.3
9.1
8.1
7.6
7
6.8
6.3
6
5.8
4.5
3.9
Millimeters (mm)
a*
c
cd
cde
cdef
defg
efgh
efghi
efghij
efghijk
efghijkl
fghijkl
ghijklm
ghijklmn
hijklmno
hijklmno
hijklmno
ijklmno
jklmnop
jklmnop
jklmnop
jklmnop
jklmnop
klmnop
klmnop
klmnop
Imnop
mnop
mnop
nop
nop
op
op
op
P
P
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the LSD Mean
Comparison method
25
-------
Table 2-13. Percentage Stand and Vigor of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Plots Evaluated on 9/22/04
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa sp.
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Poa sp.
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081968
Pryor
Rosana
Rimrock
9081635
Revenue
9081624
Trailhead
Secar
San Luis
Nezpar
9081636
9081619
Rodan
9076276
9081628
Washoe
Magnar
Goldar
Sherman
9081322
9081625
9081629
01-13-1
9076266
9076290
9016273
1858
Streaker
13970176
Gruening
Nortran
Canbar
61.3
37.2
30
28.4
27.5
26.3
24.1
24.1
23.8
22.8
20
19.2
19.1
18.4
17.9
17.8
16.6
15.9
14.4
14.1
13.4
13.4
12.2
11.9
11.6
11.3
8.4
7.8
6.3
5.2
4.4
1.9
1.9
1.1
0.4
0
Stand (%)
a*
c
cd
cde
cde
de
def
def
defg
defgh
defghi
defghi
defghi
efghij
efghij
efghij
fghijk
fghijk
ghijkl
ghijkl
ghijkl
ghijkl
hijklm
ijklm
ijklmn
ijklmno
jklmnop
jklmnop
klmnop
Imnop
Imnop
mnop
mnop
op
op
op
Vigor (1-9)
1.8
2.4
2.7
4
4.6
3.6
4.2
2.8
4.3
3.6
4
4
4.4
4.1
3.8
2.1
4.5
2.7
4.9
4.6
4.7
4.1
4.1
2.9
4.1
5.4
3.6
2.1
2.8
3.6
3.6
4
3.3
3.3
3
9
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the LSD Mean
Comparison method.
26
-------
Table 2-14. Biomass Production of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials Clipped on 9/22/04
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis gigantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa sp.
Deschampsia caespitosa
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa sp.
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081619
9081621
9081633
Pryor
Secar
9081624
Trailhead
Revenue
Washoe
9076276
Sherman
San Luis
9081635
9076290
9081636
Rosana
Rimrock
9081625
Rodan
Goldar
9081322
9076266
01-13-1
9081968
Nezpar
13970176
9016273
9081629
9081628
Magnar
1858
Gruening
Nortran
Streaker
Canbar
Biomass (kg/ha)
2,083
706
544
408
386
346
216
192
172
148
148
115
100
100
99
97
95
84
52
45
43
34
29
14
11
9
8
7
4
4
3
2
2
1
tr
0
a*
cd
cde
cdef
cdef
def
ef
ef
ef
ef
ef
ef
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the LSD Mean
Comparison method.
27
-------
Table 2-15. Percentage Stand and Vigor of Grass Trials on Stucky Ridge Plots Evaluated on 8/30/05
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus -wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Agrostis giganteus
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081635
Pryor
9081624
9081968
Secar
San Luis
Rosana
Trailhead
Rodan
9081628
Rimrock
9081625
9081636
9081619
Washoe
9076276
Sherman
Nezpar
Revenue
Goldar
Magnar
9076290
9081322
9076266
9081629
01-13-1
1858
9016273
Nortran
13970176
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
Stand (%)
75.0
43.4
34.1
25.9
23.1
22.2
21.9
21.6
20.9
20.6
16.2
16.2
14.1
14.1
13.8
13.8
13.4
13.4
13.1
12.5
11.9
11.9
11.1
10.9
10.6
10.0
9.0
6.4
3.9
3.6
3.0
1.6
0.9
0.8
0.4
0.1
a*
b
be
cd
cde
cdef
defg
defg
defgh
defgh
defghi
defghi
defghij
defghij
defghij
defghij
efghijk
efghijk
efghijk
efghijkl
efghijklm
efghijklm
efghijklm
fghijklm
fghijklm
ghijklm
hijklm
ijklm
jklm
jklm
jklm
klm
1m
1m
m
m
Vigor (1-9)
2.1
2.1
2.7
3.3
5.3
3.8
4.5
4.3
4.6
4.7
4.3
5.0
5.3
4.5
5.5
4.5
3.2
4.8
3.7
4.0
4.6
5.4
4.6
5.2
3.9
4.2
4.0
5.7
5.0
5.3
3.8
3.8
3.8
1.5
1.5
8.0
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the LSD Mean
Comparison method.
28
-------
Table 2-16. Average Plant Height of Grasses in Stucky
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis giganteus
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis giganteus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis giganteus
Pascopyrum smithii
Deschampsia caespitosa
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis giganteus
Poa secunda
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly
Comparison method.
Ridge Plots
Accession
9081620
9081621
9081633
9081624
Pryor
Secar
San Luis
9081635
9081625
9081619
Trailhead
Rimrock
Revenue
9081322
Washoe
9076276
Nezpar
Goldar
9081636
Magnar
Sherman
Rosana
Rodan
9076266
9081968
9076290
9081628
9081629
01-13-1
Nortran
9016273
13970176
1858
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
Measured on 8/30/05
Height
Centimeters (cm)
87.5 a*
76.3 a
59.0 b
58.0 be
47.0 bed
46.5 bcde
46.3 bcde
45.6 bcdef
44.0 bcdef
43.8 bcdef
42.9 cdefg
39.5 defg
36.9 defgh
36.9 defgh
36.1 defgh
35.0 defgh
33.4 defgh
33.1 defgh
31.5 efgh
30.9 fghi
30.4 fghi
28.6 ghi
27.5 ghi
26.3 ghi
24.7 hi
22.8 hi
20.8 hij
15.9 ijk
6.4 Jkl
5.7 Jkl
5.4 kl
4.5 kl
4.1 kl
1.1 kl
0.9 kl
0.0 1
different at the 0.05 significance level using the LSD Mean
29
-------
Table 2-17. Biomass Production of Grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials Clipped on 8/30/05
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis giganteus
Agrostis giganteus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis giganteus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Poa sp.
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Agrostis giganteus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
* Means followed by the same letter are not si£
Comparison method.
Accession
9081620
9081621
9081633
Trailhead
9076276
9081619
9081624
Pryor
9076266
Secar
9081635
Nezpar
9076290
9081968
Rosana
Magnar
San Luis
Revenue
9081625
Washoe
Rimrock
9081636
Goldar
9081322
Rodan
Sherman
Streaker
9081628
9081629
9016273
1858
13970176
01-13-1
Groening
Nortran
Canbar
mificantly different at the 0.05
Biomass
(kg/ha)
8,211 a*
4,100
2,506
2,222
2,189
2,039
1,844
1,578
1,367
1,289
906
872
844
800
650
639
622
578
428
361
339
317
272
233
189
189
122
61
61
51
28
28
23
0
0
0
b
c
cd
cd
cde
cdef
cdefg
cdefgh
cdefgh
defgh
defgh
defgh
defgh
efgh
efgh
efgh
fgh
fgh
gh
gh
gh
gh
gh
gh
gh
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
significance level using the LSD Mean
30
-------
Table 2-18. Moto-X Replicated Mixture Trial on Stucky Ridge
Upland Exp.
Upland Dev.
Waste Mgmt Area Exp
Waste Mgmt Area Dev
Density
6/03
no/ft2
6.4
9.3
6.3
10.5
Density
8/03
no/ft2
7.4
7.0
6.9
8.0
Stand
6/04
%
39.4
17.3
38.1
15.0
Stand
9/04
%
45.9
24.4
46.9
23.8
Stand
8/05
%
60.6
25.9
59.7
28.4
Height
2004
cm
45.8
14.8
44.8
19.8
Height
2005
cm
78.8
47.2
82.5
56.6
Biomass
2004
kg/ha
790
215
1206
306
Biomass
2005
kg/ha
5939
2011
8933
4494
Table 2-19. Seedling Density (2003), Percentage Stand (2004), and Total Plant Density (2005) of Forb and Subshrub
Accessions in the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting Evaluated on 6/24/03, 8/25/03, 6/30/04, 9/22/04, and
8/30/05
Genus & Species
Krascheninnikovia
lanata
Phacelia hastata
Krascheninnikovia
lanata
Penstemon strictus
Eriogonum
umbellatum
Penstemon
venustus
Eriogonum
umbellatum
Penstemon eatonii
Eriogonum
ovalifolium
Penstemon
eriantherus
Phacelia hastate
Potentilla gracilis
Potentilla hippiana
Symphyotrichum
chilense
Symphyotrichum
chilense
Symphyotrichum
chilense
Species
Variety/Accession Identification
Open Range
Germplasm
9081632
Northern Cold
Desert Germ.
'Bandera'
9082271
Clearwater Selected
9082273
Richfield Select
9082098
Old Works
Germplasm
9082275
9081679
9076274
9078675
9081678
9082274
5
10
4
8
2
9
3
7
1
6
11
12
13
14
15
16
2003 Density/ft2
6/24 8/25
9.47 a*
0.28 b
0.19b
0.19b
0.06 b
0.03 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
6.75 a*
0.22 b
0.16b
0.03 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
2004 Stand
6/30 9/22 2005 Average
% % Plants/Plot 8/30
5. 5 a*
0.5 b
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
4. 5 a*
0.5 b
0.0
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
20.00
6.00
0.25
0
0
0
0
0.75
0
15.00
0
0
0
0
0
0
* Means followed by the same letter are similar at the 0.05 level of significance using the LSD Mean Comparison method.
31
-------
Table 2-20. Heavy Metal Concentration of Clipped Biomass Samples from Stucky Ridge Sampled on 9/22/04 and 8/29/05;
Analyzed on 10/10/05"
L
ot
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Spe
cies
AC
HY
908
162
8
AC
HY
908
162
9
AC
HY
Ri
mro
ck
AC
HY
Nez
par
AG
GI
907
627
6
AG
GI
908
161
9
AG
GI
907
626
6
AG
GI
Stre
ake
r
DE
CE
907
629
0
A
(n
k
2
0
0
3
3
1
2
8
8
2
3
5
2
7
6
2
5
8
6
6
3
5
4
8
3
3
4
il As
ig/ (mg/
B) kg)
222
000
000
545
2
7
968
4
2
098
3
3 N
2 D 9
2
0 N N
ODD
3
8 N
2 D 6
3
7 N N
5 D D
3
2 N
0 D 6
2
5
0 3
0 5
4
0
556
Cd (mg/kg)
2
0
0
2004 5
ND 2
ND 2
5 1
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
D
ND 1
C
(n
k
2
0
0
3
9
4
1
1
7
1
6
4
6
1
0
0
7
4
4
8
u
'§/
g)
2
0
0
3
4
3
5
3
5
2
1
6
2
6
2
3
9
2
4
3
4
5
P
(m
k|
2
0
0
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
b
'§/
?)
2
0
0
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
1
3
N
D
Z
(n
k
2
0
0
1
2
3
1
1
1
6
8
5
1
5
4
5
1
1
0
0
6
3
ii
'§/
g)
2
0
0
5
8
8
7
3
3
8
3
1
4
1
6
4
4
9
7
8
5
2
32
-------
L
ot
#
1
0
1
1
1
2
1
3
1
4
1
5
1
6
1
7
1
8
1
9
Spe
cies
DE
CE
139
701
76
DE
CE
Nor
tran
EL
TR
908
162
0
EL
TR
908
162
1
EL
TR
Pry
or
EL
TR
Rev
enu
e
EL
TR
San
Lui
s
LE
CI
908
162
4
LE
CI
908
162
5
LE
CI
Wa
sho
e
A
(ir
ki
2
0
0
1
4
2
0
3
3
6
2
4
2
1
9
7
3
0
1
2
8
0
4
4
1
4
2
4
4
6
3
4
7
2
\\
'§/
g)
2
0
0
*
1
2
1
2
8
5
2
8
3
4
1
3
4
4
5
1
9
3
4
3
6
5
5
9
3
6
6
As
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4 5
8 6
8
N
D 5
N N
D D
N
D 8
N
D 7
N
D 6
N
D 5
6 9
N
7 D
Cd (mg/kg)
'Jfifid
.ZUU4
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2
0
0
^
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
1
N
D
C
(ir
ki
2
0
0
5
7
2
9
2
6
3
8
2
5
4
8
4
5
6
2
7
2
4
7
u
'§/
g)
2
0
0
1
4
4
7
4
1
6
2
6
5
2
7
7
3
7
6
4
7
P
(m
k|
2
0
0
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
b
'§/
g)
2
0
0
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
Zn
(mg/
2 2
0 0
0 0
8 4
7 4
6
7
1 1
4 6
2 2
1 2
3 3
7 5
5 4
0 7
4 3
0 3
1
1 5
1 5
1 1
7 2
2 4
1 1
7 0
5 6
33
-------
L Al As
ot Spe (mg/ (mg/
# cies kg) kg)
2222
0000
0000
4S A S
j 4 3
LE
CI
Ma 6 4
2 gna 3 1 1
0 r 6018
LE
CI
Tra 4 3
2 ilhe 4 9 N
1 ad 1 1 D 8
PA
SM
908 3 3
2 196 7 1
2 8 4565
PA
SM 4 2
2 Ro 9 4
3 dan 5 3 7 6
PA
SM 2 3
2 Ros 1 1
4 ana 0 8 6 9
PO
AL 1
901 7 7
2 627 9 4 2
5 3 9071
PO
AL 1
01- 2 6
2 13- 2 9 1
6 1 0587
PO 1 1
AL 1 4
2 185 9 1 N 2
8 8 0 0 D 0
PO
SE
908 4 4
2 163 4 1 N
9 3 2 7 9 D
PO
SE
She 3 4
3 ma 1 2 1
0 n 1092
Cd (mg/kg)
2
0
0
2004 5
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
N
ND D
C
(ir
k
2
0
0
1
1
3
3
5
4
5
5
2
2
9
5
0
7
8
3
3
4
9
3
6
u
'g/
g)
2
0
0
6
3
5
1
4
1
2
9
4
7
1
2
0
8
0
9
3
5
2
5
2
P
(m
k
2
0
0
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
b
'g/
?)
2
0
0
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
8
N
D
9
N
D
N
D
Z
(m
kf
2
0
0
8
4
8
5
8
6
5
6
6
1
4
5
4
9
6
2
3
5
9
4
n
g/
£
2
0
0
5
6
9
9
3
6
4
3
9
5
2
6
4
5
0
1
5
6
4
4
1
0
6
34
-------
L
ot Spe
# cies
PO
SE
3 Can
1 bar
PO
SP
908
3 163
2 5
PO
SP
908
3 132
3 2
PS
SP
908
3 163
4 6
PS
SP
3 Gol
5 dar
EL
W
A
3 Sec
6 ar
UP
EX
1 P
UP
DE
2 V
W
M
AE
3 XP
W
M
AD
4 EV
KR
LA
Op.
Ran
5 ge
Al
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4 5
As
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4 5
Cd (mg/kg)
2004
2
0
0
^
Cu
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
Pb
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
Zn
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
no
sam
pies
3
6
4
4
4
1
6
7
6
6
5
4
3
9
6
3
9
2
2
6
8
3
7
4
2
7
0
1
1
7
3
5
4
9
3
4
6
9
3
1
5
4
8
6
3
5
2
6
6
5
4
5
4
2
1
5
4
8
3
7
2
1
1
N
D
1
6
1
3
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
7.
5
1
4
9
2
0
1
2
7
N
D
1
2
N
D
9
N
D
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
4
6
8
3
7
6
8
1
3
4
5
1
3
1
3
5
2
6
1
0
8
5
9
6
2
1
1
2
6
8
5
9
4
3
6
9
5
0
6
6
4
4
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
N
D
3 4
8 4
5 6
7 4
8 8
1 4
7 5
7 8
6 6
8 5
2 3
2 1
7 4
3 0
2 2
7 5
6 4
7 4
8 4
2 7
35
-------
L
ot Spe
# cies
PE
ER
Old
Wo
6 rks
PH
HA
908
1 163
0 2
Al
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4 5
1
2
8
0
3
7
2
0
As
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4 5
1
4
4
2
Cu
(mg/
Cd (mg/kg) kg)
222
000
000
N 6
D 5
3
N 0
D 7
Pb Zn
(mg/ (mg/
kg) kg)
2222
0000
0000
N 3
D 1
1 9
5 1
Maximum
Tolerable
Levels for
Dome
stic
livesto
ck
(NRC,
2005)
Wildli
fe
(Ford,
1996)
Metal
levels
in
Plants
(Rabat
a-
Pendia
s&
Pendia
s,
1992)
Defici
ent
Suffici
ent or
Norm
al
Exces
sive or
Toxic
3
0
5
0
1
to
1.
7
5
to
2
0
4
0
1.0b
5
2 5
2
to
5
5
to
3
0.05 to 0.2 0
20 to
5 to 30 100
3
1 0
0 0
d e
3
4 0
0 0
5
to
1 27 to
0 150
100
30 to to
300 400
36
-------
L
ot Spe
# cies
Al
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4s
As
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
4s
Cd (mg/kg)
2
0
0
1(\(\A «
Cu
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
Pb
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
Zn
(mg/
kg)
2 2
0 0
0 0
Notes: aElement-specific MDLs are <5 mg/kg (by inductively-coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy).
bFor protection of human health; lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) for livestock is 10 mg/kg.
°LOAEL for cattle ranges from 15 mg/kg for sheep to 250 mg/kg for horses.
dFor horses; 100 mg/kg for cattle and sheep.
Tor sheep; 500 mg/kg for horses and cattle.
37
-------
Table 2-21. Acid Extractable Heavy Metal Levels at the Woody CEP Plot
pH As
Sample No. (s.u.) (mg/kg)
A.T. 0-6" NE 4.0 610
A.T. 0-6" NW 4.9 360
A.T. 0-6" SE 4.6 530
A.T. 0-6" SW 4.6 190
Arithmetic Mean 4.53 422.5
Phytotoxicity Criteria8 <5.0 136-315
Note: EPA phytotoxicity standards (CDM Federal, 1997).
Table 2-22. Seed Origin and Elevation Entries
Family/Species
Caprifoliaceae:
Symphoricarpos albus (L.) Blake
S. albus (L.) Blake
S. occidentalis Hook.
S. occidentalis Hook
S. occidentalis Hook
Elaeagnaceae:
Shepherdia argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
S. argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
S. argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
Grossulariaceae:
Ribes cereum Dougl.
R. cereum Dougl.
Pinaceae:
Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. ponder osa P. & C. Lawson
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
Rosaceae:
Rosa woodsii
R. woodsii
R. woodsii
Cd Cu
(mg/kg) (mg/kg)
7 620
5 340
5 340
7 740
6 510
5.1-20 236-750
Seed Origin
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
Ravalli Co., Montana
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
CO Seed Source
Weston Co., Wyoming
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
Utah Seed Source
Sweetwater Co., Wyoming
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
Chaffee Co., Colorado
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
Albany Co., Wyoming
Custer Co., Idaho
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
Lawrence Co., South Dakota
San Juan Co., Colorado
Deer Lodge Co., Montana
Ravalli Co., Montana
Pueblo Co., Colorado
Pb Zn
(mg/kg) (mg/kg)
320 370
120 222
150 200
340 440
232.5 308
94-250 196-240
Elevation
6000 ft
3500
5559
unknown
5000
6000
unknown
6000
5700
8000
6400
9500
6300
5850
5500
8000
5168
3400
6000
38
-------
Table 2-23. Woody Comparative Evaluation Plot
Replication
PICO 9078320
PICO
m039ID0002
PICO
m038WY0002
PIP09081318
PIPO
m04C00002
PIPO
m020SD9903
RICE 9081 329
RICE
m024C00003
ROWO 9081638
ROWO
m076C00003
ROWO
m07MT0003
SHAR 908 1334
SHAR
m022WY0005
SHAR
m015UT9901
SYAL 9078388
SYAL
m045MT003
SYOC 9081639
SYOC
m021WY0004
SYOC
m018C09904
2002
5.80
5.0
4.0
2.1
4.2
3.2
4.8
5.4
4.2
7.0
5.0
2.5
6.6
5.8
3.6
3.6
4.6
3.8
4.0
Vigor
2003 2004
5.1
5.0
4.5
3.4
4.8
2.7
2.8
5.1
4.5
7.0
4.0
2.5
5.2
5.0
4.0
3.0
5.2
2.8
4.5
6.5
7.0
5.5
5.6
7.3
4.8
3.9
5.9
4.5
8.0
6.0
3.9
6.7
5.5
4.5
4.2
6.9
4.6
4.8
2005
7.6
8.0
6.0
5.7
8.0
5.3
3.3
5.4
4.4
9.0
4.0
4.0
7.3
6.0
5.7
4.8
6.5
4.4
5.4
2002
10.1
12.8
14.5
24.7
14.3
26.8
25.5
12.3
26.1
9.0
12.0
29.9
5.6
9.2
18.7
18.3
18.1
24.8
16.6
Average Height (cm)
2003 2004
10.2
16.3
15.7
27.4
14.7
32.1
47.2
24.0
35.9
5.0
28.5
37.9
7.8
13.3
25.1
30.3
16.1
40.6
22.8
11.8
16.0
18.0
25.8
13.7
31.5
52.0
25.6
39.4
4.0
21.7
41.7
12.7
15.0
28.5
33.7
18.6
37.5
23.7
2005
14.0
16.5
20.5
31.3
14.1
38.3
78.7
46.9
57.3
0.0
50.5
73.9
20.1
31.5
30.5
40.5
26.5
55.7
35.9
2002
85
30
20
100
85
100
75
65
75
15
20
80
60
25
90
30
85
90
90
% Survival
2003 2004
40
15
15
100
85
100
65
50
65
5
10
80
35
20
85
30
80
75
85
25
10
5
95
85
95
70
50
65
5
15
80
30
10
95
30
65
70
75
2005
25
10
10
95
75
95
60
40
55
0
10
75
35
10
90
30
30
65
70
39
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Table 2-24. Seed Production Fields Established at the BPMC
Common Name
woolly cinquefoil
fuzzytongue penstemon
silverleafphacelia
basin wildrye
basin wildrye
bluebunch wheatgrass
slender wheatgrass
big bluegrass
Indian ricegrass
western wheatgrass
common snowberry
creeping juniper
Woods' rose
western snowberry
silver buffaloberry
Accession Release
9076274
9081631 Old Works
9081632
9081627 Washoe
9081627 Washoe
9081636
9081620
9081633
9081628
9081968
9078388 Prospectors
9081623
9081638
9081639
9081334
Field Number Field Size
4
20
20
20
22
20
20
20
22
22
19
23
30
30
30
.30
.35
.80
.21
.30
.35
.24
.14
.10
.44
.60
.40
.40
.60
Established
spring 2006a
ll/04b
ll/04b
4/05b
4/99b
4/05b
4/05b
4/05b
4/99b
6/05a
5/OOc
5/02, 5/03c
7/99c
5/OOc
5/OOc
Notes: a Transplanted Cone-tainers™
b Established from seed
0 Transplanted 2-0 stock
Table 2-25. Seed on Hand of Increase Plant Material
Genus & Species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis giganteus
Elymus trachycaulus
Juniperus horizontalis
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Penstemon eriantherus
Phacelia hastate
Poa secunda
Potentilla hippiana
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Rosa woodsii
Shepherdia argentea
Symphoricarpos albus
Symphoricarpos occidentalis
Common Name
Indian ricegrass
Redtop
slender wheatgrass
creeping juniper
basin wildrye
western wheatgrass
fuzzytongue penstemon
silverleafphacelia
big bluegrass
woolly cinquefoil
Bluebunch wheatgrass
Woods' rose
silver buffaloberry
common snowberry
western snowberry
Accession
9081628
9076276
9081620
9081623
Washoe
9081968
Old Works
9081632
9081633
9076274
9081636
9081638
9081334
Prospectors
9081639
Seed on Hand
Kilograms (kg)
4.81
50.03
44.52
0.34
28.84
0.01
2.75
9.96
4.16
4.80
23.71
0.56
0.00
0.47
0.10
40
-------
Table 2-26. Comparison of Independent Soil Sampling and Analysis Results3
Part A. Sampling by BPMC on October 24, 2001, and Analysis by Energy Laboratories, Inc. (Billings)
Field Sample No.
LS-1
LS-2
LS-3
L2-4
Average
Laboratory Parameters
PH
(S.U.)
7.4
5.1
5.4
6.7
6.2
Eh
(mV)
296.0
339.0
345.0
312.0
323.0
As
(mg/kg)
338.0
404.0
472.0
329.0
385.8
Cd
(mg/kg)
6.0
7.0
11.0
7.0
7.8
Cu
(mg/kg)
574.0
639.0
882.0
608.0
675.8
Pb
(mg/kg)
147.0
163.0
230.0
155.0
173.8
Zn
(mg/kg)
394.0
455.0
572.0
435.0
464.0
Part B. Sampling by MSB on October 26, 2001, and Analysis by HKM Laboratory (Butte)
Field Sample No.
Laboratory Parameters
SR-l-SW
SR-2-NWb
SR-3-NWb
SR-4-SE
SR-5-NE
Average
PH
(S.U.)
6.65
4.72
4.53
4.66
7.18
5.78
Eh
(mV)
249.0
275.0
287.0
290.0
230.0
262.5
As
(mg/kg)
554.0
539.0
551.0
506.0
367.0
493.0
Cd
(mg/kg)
9.9
11.3
11.1
10.6
9.4
10.3
Cu
(mg/kg)
988.0
937.0
954.0
843.0
657.0
858.4
Pb
(mg/kg)
253.0
223.0
241.0
201.0
161.0
211.8
Zn
(mg/kg)
636.0
702.0
705.0
669.0
593.0
650.4
Notes:
a For Lowland CEP plot (Figure
b Field duplicate samples.
Avg./RPD/% 6.4
+25%-50% is acceptable.
1-1), post-plow surface (0- to 6-inch) composite soil samples.
18.7 27.8 32.0 27.0 21.9 40.2
Source: DLVCD, 2005, Tables 7 and 8.
41
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3. Conclusions and Recommendations
3.1 Conclusions
3.1.1 Woody Comparative Evaluation Plot
Several dead plants were removed and it was
observed that the roots of these plants had not
penetrated the native soil beyond their soil media
plug area. It is probable that the plants whose
roots were able to tolerate the low pH and
metalliferous surroundings beyond their plug area
flourished, while those with roots sensitive to the
edaphic contaminates declined.
The accessions that had good survival and are now
showing substantial growth include:
- Pinus ponderosa (Deer Lodge County,
Montana);
- Pinus ponderosa (Lawrence County, South
Dakota);
- Ribes cereum (Deer Lodge County,
Montana);
- Rosa woodsii (Deer Lodge County,
Montana);
- Rosa woodsii (Ravalli County, Montana);
- Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County,
Montana);
- Symphoricarpos albus (Deer Lodge County,
Montana); and
- Symphoricarpos occidentalis (Weston
County, Wyoming).
3.1.2 Stucky Ridge Plot
All of the potential germinable seeds germinated
the first year (2003). The record high
temperatures and low precipitation in July and
August, along with the late spring planting date
(May 13), are considered the primary factors
affecting the incomplete germination and
emergence during the 2003 growing season
(National Weather Service, 2003). There was a
significant amount of new grass seedling
emergence detected during the June 30, 2004,
evaluation, particularly in the Indian ricegrass,
western wheatgrass, big bluegrass, and basin
wildrye plots and some new germination of forbs
in 2005.
In the single-species plots, the 'local source' plants
that exhibited superior performance include
9081620 and 9081621 slender wheatgrass,
9081633 big bluegrass, 9081968 western
wheatgrass, 9081624 and Washoe Germplasm
basin wildrye, 9081628 Indian ricegrass, 9081636
bluebunch wheatgrass, and 9081635 bluegrass.
The superior indigenous plant material was being
further increased for potential release to the
commercial seed industry. Worth noting was the
performance of some of the released cultivars such
as Pryor and Revenue slender wheatgrass, Rosana
western wheatgrass, Rimrock Indian ricegrass,
Trailhead basin wildrye, Secar Snake River
wheatgrass, and Goldar bluebunch wheatgrass.
The forb/subshrub trial had poor emergence and
consequently poor seedling densities with the
exception of Open Range Germplasm winterfat.
The low densities were most likely the result of
the late spring planting that resulted in an
insufficient period of cold-moist stratification. An
additional problem may have been sowing small-
sized seed too deeply. There was also heavy
surface erosion on this portion of the trial site.
In the Seed Mixture Trials, the 'Experimental'
mixes that contained native 'local source' were far
superior to the 'Developed' mixes that consisted
of native 'nonlocal source' (Upland mix) and
introduced cultivars (Waste Management Areas).
However, it was estimated that the majority of
plants in the Experimental mixtures, both Upland
and Waste Management Areas, were 9081620
slender wheatgrass, which was the best overall
performer on this particular site. Because this
species is short-lived and only moderately tolerant
of grazing, "stands should be managed carefully to
ensure seed production occurs every other year for
long-term survival" (USDA-NRCS, 2006b; p. 2).
42
-------
The tissue analyses show that the heavy metal
concentrations in and on the plant tissue sampled
from the Stucky Ridge plots were generally within
the tolerable limits for both domestic livestock and
wildlife.
The overall performance on the Stucky Ridge
plots was quite variable, with strips running north
and south that had poorer plant vigor and biomass
production. The Pryor slender wheatgrass strips
between replications (running east and west)
exhibited waves of good and poor establishment
and performance. Soil samples (0- to 6-inch) were
taken under four plant stands of slender
wheatgrass ranging from excellent to very poor in
hopes of explaining this variability. It was thought
that the incorporation of the amendments may
have created strips with varying pH. Soil analysis
for pH indicated no difference in pH (all 6.8 to
7.3) under the varying stand of slender wheatgrass.
Although this variability remains unexplained, it
may be due to microclimatic effects on seed
germination (i.e., subtle, highly localized
variations in soil
moisture and temperature). Another possible
explanation is the presence of metals-rich "hot
spots" that remained after initial tillage of the
soils.
3.2 Recommendations
The DATC project offers an improved means of
revegetating lands degraded by hardrock mining,
milling, and smelting activities within the
Intermountain Region of the Western United
States. Acceptance of the Anaconda-accessions
released to date, as well as those in the future, by
regulatory agencies and private industry will be
aided by continued funding of field demonstration
and seed production activities by BPMC. Such
efforts should include seasonal performance
monitoring of key species and "experimental" seed
mixtures at the Stucky Ridge and Woody CEP
plots for at least another few years. Such
monitoring would improve understanding of plant
response(s) to climatic variability and variations in
heavy metals uptake (per given accession) from
soil over time. MSB Technology Applications,
Inc. is impressed by the BMPC's expertise and
dedication to achieving these ends and hopes its
good work will be able to continue into the future.
43
-------
References
Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies
(AOSCA). 2003. Operational Procedures, Crop
Standards and Service Programs Publication
(Genetic and Crop Standards), Meridian, Idaho.
Atlantic Richfield Company. 2002. Anaconda
Smelter NPL Site, Anaconda Regional Water,
Waste and Soils Operable Unit: Remedial Action
Work Plan/Final Design Report, 2002 Stucky
Ridge RA (Portion of Stucky Ridge Area No. 4
RA WP) Uplands Revegetation. Prepared by
Pioneer Technical Services for ARCO.
CDM Federal. 1997. Final Baseline Ecological
Risk Assessment for the Anaconda Regional
Water, Waste and Soils Operable Unit, Volume 1.
Prepared for the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Region 8, Helena, MT Field Office.
Conesa, H. M., A. Faz, and R. Arnaldos. 2007.
"Initial Studies for the Phytostabilization of a
Mine Tailing from the Cartagena-La Union
Mining District (SE Spain)," Chemosphere (5(5(1):
38-44.
Dahmani-Muller, H., F. van Oort, B. Gelie, and M.
Balabane. 2000. "Strategies of Heavy Metal
Uptake by Three Species Growing Near a Metal
Smelter," Environmental Pollution 109(2): 231-
238.
Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District. 2007.
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant
Releases (DATR): 2006 Activities. Prepared by
the DLVCD in cooperation with the USDA-
NRCS-Bridger Plant Materials Center for the U.S.
EPA/Mine Waste Technology Program and State
of Montana/Natural Resource Damage Program.
Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District. 2005.
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant
Cultivers (DATC): A Summary of Activities for
2000-2004. Prepared by the DLVCD in
cooperation with the USDA-NRCS-Bridger Plant
Materials Center for the U.S. EPA/Mine Waste
Technology Program and Montana Natural
Resources Damage Program.
Ford, K.L. 1996. Risk Management Criteria for
Metals at BLMMining Sites. Prepared by the U.S.
Department of Interior, Bureau of Land
Management, National Applied Resource Sciences
Center (Denver, CO) as Technical Note 390
(revised).
Jennings, S. R. and F. F. Munshower. 1997. Best
Management Practices for Mineland Reclamation,
Anaconda, Montana: Relationships Between Land
Reclamation Techniques and Ecological Process.
Prepared by the Reclamation Research Unit,
Montana State University, Bozeman, as
Publication No. 9702.
Kabata-Pendias A. and H. Pendias. 1992. Trace
Elements in Soils and Plants. CRC Press, Boca
Raton, FL.
Marty, L. J. 2003a. Development of Acid/Heavy
Metal-Tolerant Cultivars Project Bi-Annual
Report: October 1, 2002 to March 31, 2003.
Prepared for the U.S. EPA/Mine Waste
Technology Program and State of Montana/
Natural Resource Damage Program.
Marty, L. J. 2003b. Development of Acid/Heavy
Metal-Tolerant Cultivars Project Bi-Annual
Report: April 1, 2003 to September 30, 2003.
Prepared for the U.S. EPA/Mine Waste
Technology Program and State of Montana/
Natural Resource Damage Program.
Marty, L. J. 2001. Development of Acid/Heavy
Metal-Tolerant Cultivars (DATC) Project:
Progress Report for April 1, 2001 to September
30, 2001. Prepared for the U.S. EPA/Mine Waste
Technology Program and State of
Montana/Natural Resource Damage Program.
Marty, L. J. 2000. Development of Acid/Heavy
Metal-Tolerant Cultivars (DATC) Project: Final
Report for July 1998 to July 2000. Prepared for the
Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District, in
cooperation with the USDA-NRCS/Bridger Plant
Materials Center.
44
-------
Montana Natural Resource Information System
(NRIS). 1996. Anaconda Smelter SuperfundMap
No. 97epal3e. Montana State Library, Helena,
MT.
MSB Technology Applications, Inc. 2001. Quality
Assurance Project Plan-Acidic/Heavy Metal-
Tolerant Plant Cultivars Demonstration,
Anaconda Smelter Superfimd Site: Mine Waste
Technology Program, Activity III, Project 30.
Prepared by MSB Technology Applications, Inc.,
and USDA-NRCS/Bridger Plant Materials Center
for the U.S. EPA/National Risk Management
Research Laboratory (Cincinnati, OH) and U.S.
DOE/ National Energy Technology Laboratory
(Pittsburgh, PA) as Report No. MWTP-185.
National Research Council. 2005. Mineral
Tolerance of Animals, Second Revised Edition.
National Academies Press, Washington, B.C.
National Weather Service. 2003. Missoula
Weather Forecast Office, accessed November
2003 at website www.wrh.noaa.gov/Missoula.
Reclamation Research Unit (RRU). 1993.
Anaconda Revegetation Treatability Studies,
Phase 1: Literature Review, Reclamation
Assessments, and Demonstration Site Selection.
Prepared by the RRU, Montana State University
for the ARTS Technical Committee plus Research
& Development Institute, Inc. Report No. ASSS-
ARTS-I-FR-R1-102293.
Taskey, R. D. 1972. Soil Contamination at
Anaconda Montana: History and Influence on
Plant Growth. Master of Science Thesis, School of
Forestry, University of Montana, Missoula.
USDA-NRCS. 2006a. PLANTS Database, posted
at website http://plants.usda.gov.
USDA-NRCS. 2006b. Plant Guide: Slender
Wheatgrass, posted at website http://
plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_eltr7.pdf
USDA-NRCS. 2000. National Plant Materials
Manual, Part 540.7 (Plant Selection). U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1995.
Remedial Action Work Plan/Final Design Report
for the Anaconda Regional Water, Waste and Soils
Operable Unit of the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site,
Helena, MT.
Vangronsveld, J. and S.D. Cunningham. 1998.
Metal-Contaminated Soils: In Situ Inactivation
andPhytorestoration. Springer-Verlag, Berlin.
45
-------
Appendix A
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Releases (DATR)
2005 Activities Report
from
Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District
in cooperation with the
USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center
-------
Appendix B
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Releases (DATR)
2006 Activities Report
from
Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District
in cooperation with the
USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center
-------
Appendix A
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Releases (DATR)
2005 Activities
A Report to
EPA Mine Waste Technology Program
and
Montana Natural Resource Damages Program
By Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District
in cooperation with the
USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center
A- 1
-------
Appendix A
I. INTRODUCTION
A-2
-------
Appendix A
INTRODUCTION
Montana has a history of mining, starting with the gold rush of the 1860s, followed by
mining of silver and, eventually, copper. The derelict lands produced by past mining for
heavy metals and the processing of crude mineral ores are both visually unattractive
and sources of environmental contamination. In the Clark Fork River Basin alone, there
were approximately 20 square miles of tailing ponds, more than 175 square miles of
soils and vegetation contaminated by air pollution from smelting operations, at least
30 square miles of unproductive agricultural land, and 150 miles of contaminated
stream beds and habitat along these streams, plus millions of gallons of contaminated
ground water (Johnson and Schmidt, 1998; Moore and Luoma, 1990). Throughout the
rest of the state, the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program identified over 4,500 acres
of unvegetated spoils and sites affected by acid mine drainage (Chen-Northern, Inc.,
1989).
To successfully reclaim acid/metalliferous-affected sites, it is imperative that a
permanent vegetative cover be established, thereby reducing surface wind and water
erosion and reducing the amount of leaching of contaminants into subsurface water
aquifers. A lack of plant materials able to withstand the severe edaphic conditions of
acid- and/or heavy-metal-contaminated soils has created a need for native plant
materials that demonstrate inherent tolerances of these conditions and that are adapted
to the intermountain valleys and foothills of western Montana. Research has found that
populations of certain species growing in soils containing large amounts of heavy
metals may be tolerant of the metals, and will grow better on such soils than plant
materials originating from uncontaminated soils (Bradshaw, 1952; Bradshaw et al.,
1965; Bradshaw, 1977; and Antinovics et al., 1971). All have shown that metal and acid
tolerance evolves over time and this tolerance is genetically controlled, being passed on
through seed material. This process of natural selection usually occurs over a long
period of time (Antonovics, 1966). Antonovics (1968) found that mine spoil plants
developed a high level of self-fertility, apparently to prevent the dilution of the tolerance
by the flow of nontolerant genes from neighboring populations. Smith and Bradshaw
(1972) found that metal-tolerant plant populations tend to translocate fewer amounts of
heavy metals into their aerial parts than nontolerant populations. This is a significant
factor if a reclaimed site is to be grazed by wildlife and/or livestock. Current reclamation
efforts to re-establish plant cover on abandoned and active hardrock mine sites rely
primarily on seed of native plants developed for coal mine reclamation and range
renovation in dry, high pH soils of eastern Montana, southern Idaho, and eastern
Washington and Oregon. The most successful reclamation efforts within the Clark Fork
Valley Super-Fund site involve the amendment of soils to neutralize the soil pH and tie
up heavy metals. Not all contaminated soils are accessible or traversable with farming
equipment, creating a need for seed and transplants tolerant of acid/heavy metal plant
materials.
Project History
To address this need for adapted native plants, the Development of Acid/Heavy Metal-
Tolerant Plants (DATC) project was initiated in 1995. The DATC project was initially
A-3
-------
Appendix A
funded by a Montana Department of Natural Resources-Reclamation and Development
Grant awarded to the Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District (DLVCD), with research
conducted by Matt Marsh. The DLVCD worked in cooperation with the USDA-NRCS
Bridger Plant Materials Center. The national network of 26 Plant Materials Centers is
the primary source of native plants developed specifically for reclamation and
conservation use. The Bridger PMC, in south-central Montana, is a 140-acre research
facility dedicated to the selection and release of native plant materials, primarily for use
in Montana and Wyoming. The original DNRC grant expired at the end of 1996 and this
project did not receive funding until June 1998, at which time carry-over money for the
1997-98 grant period was made available to this project, as well as some financial
support from Atlantic Richfield Co. (ARCO). During 1999 and 2000, the project was
again funded by a NDRC Reclamation and Development grant. Since 2000, the DATC
project has been funded by the EPA Mine Waste Technology Program (through 2005)
and the Montana Department of Justice-Natural Resource Damage Program (through
2008). To date, the DATC project has involved the seed collection of 145 native
grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees from within the Upper Clark Fork River Basin and
abandoned mine sites throughout western Montana. These collections have been
planted at various study sites in comparison with nonlocal native and introduced plant
species. The Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) has provided land access for seed
collection and sites for experimental plots.
The first Initial Evaluation Plantings (lEPs) (single-row plots) were established in 1995
on the flats east of Anaconda (near junction of Highway 1 and 48), on the Opportunity
Ponds (three levels of lime amendment), and adjacent to the Lead Smelter at East
Helena. Collectively these three research sites tested 220 accessions of 95 species of
native and introduced plants. In the spring of 1999, a Comparative Evaluation Planting
(CEP) (single-row plots) was established along Willow Glen Road east of Anaconda
evaluating 84 entries, which included multiple accessions of 6 forbs, 13 grasses, and 6
forb/grass mixes. During the fall/winter of 1999, a greenhouse study at the Bridger
PMC utilized contaminated soil from the Anaconda Flats area. The results of this
replicated, controlled environment study provided enough statistically significant data to
move some individual collections toward official release to the commercial seed
industry. In 2001, CEPs were established with a four-row cone seeder on Stucky Ridge
(upland site) and on the Mill Creek Flats (lowland site) to evaluate eight seed mixtures,
four consisting of native, local-origin species and four consisting of nonlocal-origin
released cultivars. In October 2002, a shrub/tree CEP (Willow Glenn Road Site) was
established to compare native indigenous material with commercially available stock of
the same species, utilizing 2-0 transplants. All plantings prior to 2003 were established
on unamended sites, receiving deep-plowing treatment only (except Opportunity Pond-
Site 2). In the spring of 2003, another replicated trial was established on Stucky Ridge
(adjacent to the moto-cross site) on a site that had been deep plowed and amended
with lime.
To date, there have been three official germ plasm releases by the DATC project:
Washoe Selected Class germplasm of basin wildrye (Leymus cinereus), Old Works
Source Identified Class germplasm of fuzzytongue penstemon (Penstemon
A-4
-------
Appendix A
eriantherus), and Prospectors Selected Class germplasm of common snowberry
(Symphoricarpos albus). Presently there are 15 collections of 9 species (see Seed
Increase section) that have been established in seed increase fields for potential future
release. Two commercial growers in Montana are growing Washoe basin wildrye, while
a grower in Idaho and one in Washington have recently established seed production
fields of Old Works fuzzytongue penstemon.
References
Anatovics, J., A.D. Bradshaw, and R.G. Turner. 1971. Heavy metal tolerance in plants.
Adv. Ecol. Res. Vol. 7:1-55.
Anatovics, J. 1966. The genetics and evolution of differences between closely adjacent
plant populations with special reference to heavy metal tolerance. Ph.D Thesis.
University of Wales.
Anatovics, J. 1968. Evolution in closely adjacent plant populations. Evolution of self-
fertility. Heredity, Lond. 23:219-238.
Bradshaw, A.D. 1952. Populations of Agrostis tenuis resistant to lead and zinc
poisoning. Nature (London) 169:1098.
Bradshaw, A.D. 1977. The evolution of metal tolerance and its significance for
vegetation establishment on metal contaminated sites. In: Heavy Metals and the
Environment, ed. T.C. Hutchinson. Toronto University Press.
Bradshaw, A.D., T.S. McNeilly, and R.P.G. Gregory. 1965. Industrialization, evolution
and the development of heavy metal tolerance in plants. In: British Ecological
Society Symposium 5. eds. G.T. Goodman et al. p.327-343.
Chen-Northern, Inc. 1989. Final Report-abandoned mine reclamation program: non-
coal inventory. Prepared by Montana Department of State Lands.
Johnson, H.E. and C.L. Schmidt. 1988. Clark Fork Basin Project: Status Report and
Action Plan. Prepared for the Office of Governor, Helena, MT.
Moore, J.N. and S.N. Luoma. 1990. Hazardous waste from large-scale metal
extraction: The Clark Fork Waste Complex, Montana. Prepared by the
University of Montana-Missoula and U.S. Geological Survey. 34 pp.
Smith, R.A.H. and A.D. Bradshaw. 1972. Stabilization of toxic mine wastes by use of
tolerant plant populations. Trans. Int. Min. Metall. 81(a):230-237.
A-5
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Appendix A
II. WOODY EVALUATION
A-6
-------
Appendix A
WOODY COMPARATIVE EVALUATION PLANTING
PERFORMANCE REPORT
Introduction
This report summarizes the plant performance of the Woody Comparative Evaluation
Planting (CEP) installed in the fall of 2000 at the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site.
One of the most impacted areas is the ~18 mi2 of uplands within the Anaconda Smelter
Superfund Site. The uplands are commonly derived from the weathering of bedrock
and are typically thin, clay-rich alfisols. Due to the susceptibility of these soils to erosion
by wind and water, the soil surface in many areas has eroded away and the subsoil,
which is now exposed at the surface, continues to erode. Original vegetation in the
uplands consisted primarily of shrub lands with coniferous forests above approximately
5,800 feet (Keammerer, 1995). In an effort to stem the transport of contaminants and
restore these injured areas, state and federal regulatory agencies have developed
several reclamation alternatives, many of which include the planting of shrubs and trees
in the uplands.
The low pH soils at the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site are routinely ameliorated by
incorporating lime; however, nonuniform lime incorporation, as well as the upward
migration of acid-producing compounds, results in pockets of acidity. Additionally, many
steeply sloped areas are not accessible to heavy equipment making them difficult to
amend. Research has demonstrated that metal-tolerant plants can be used to stabilize
and immobilize contaminants in the soil (Smith and Bradshaw, 1972; Bradshaw et al.,
1978). Metals are absorbed and accumulated by roots, adsorbed onto roots, or
precipitated within the rhizosphere, thereby trapping contaminants in the soil and
breaking the soil-plant-animal cycle.
Numerous demonstration projects over the last 50 years at the Anaconda Smelter
Superfund Site have tested the performance of several woody plant species in diverse
edaphic conditions (Dutton, 1992; Eliason, 1959; Gordon, 1984; Reclamation Research
Unit and Schafer and Associates, 1993; Reclamation Research Unit, 1997). This study
builds on previous research findings by testing accessions (ecotypes) of woody plant
species that have shown adaptations to low pH and heavy-metal contaminated soils.
The objective of the study is to identify acid/heavy-metal-tolerant native plant ecotypes
that provide erosion control and wildlife habitat. The Development of Acid/Heavy-Metal-
Tolerant Cultivars Project's goal is to release these superior ecotypes to the commercial
market and thereby provide a greater array of plant materials for the reclamation
industry.
Study entries include "local" germplasm originated from seed collected on nearby mine-
affected soils in Deer Lodge County, Montana, as well as "nonlocal" germplasm
originated from seed collected on non-impacted lands in various counties of Montana,
Colorado, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Seedlings of 19 accessions of 7 woody
species including Pinus contorta lodgepole pine, Pinus ponderosa ponderosa pine,
Shepherdia argentea silver buffaloberry, Rosa woodsii Woods' rose, Symphoricarpos
albus common snowberry, Symphoricarpos occidentalis western snowberry, and Ribes
A-7
-------
Appendix A
cereum wax currant were transplanted into a common garden in a randomized complete
block design.
Study Site
The 0.4-acre study site, located ~4 miles southeast of Anaconda, Montana, has been
impacted by emission fallout from the Upper and Lower Works as well as the Washoe
smelter. The Upper and Lower Works smelters operated from 1884 to 1902 at which
point the Washoe smelter took over smelting operations until 1980. The study site lies
~200 yards east of Mill Creek at an elevation of 5,140 ft in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone
4a. The soils at the site are in the Haploboroll's Family and consist of deep, well-
drained soils formed in mixed alluvium composed of granitic, meta-sedimentary, and
volcanic rocks. The alluvium is derived from the Mill Creek drainage. Cobbles and
stones commonly occur on the soil surface. In 1999, the site was plowed to a depth of
6 inches, rototilled, and packed. Laboratory analysis of four (0- to 6-inch) composite soil
samples taken after tilling to 6 inches indicated an average pH of 4.53. Average
arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc concentrations in the four soil samples were
423 mg/kg, 6 mg/kg, 510 mg/kg, 233 mg/kg, and 308 mg/kg, respectively (table 1).
Table 1. Acid extractable heavy-metal levels (EPA method 3050) and pH of 0- to 6-inch
composite samples.
Sample No.
AT. 0-6" NE
AT. 0-6" NW
AT. 0-6" SE
AT. 0-6" SW
m\
Phytotoxic
Criteria1
PH
S.U.
4.0
4.9
4.6
4.6
4.53
<5.0
As
mg/kg
610
360
530
190
422.5
136-315
Cd
mg/kg
7
5
5
7
6
5.1-20
Cu
mg/kg
620
340
340
740
510
236-750
Pb
mg/kg
320
120
150
340
232.5
94-250
Zn
mg/kg
370
222
200
440
308
1 96-240
t EPA phytotoxicity standards (COM Federal 1997).
Methods and Materials
The study tested 19 accessions consisting of two or three accessions of each of the
seven shrub/tree species (table 2). The 1-0 and 2-0 (6- to 12-inch) seedlings were
transplanted in a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated 20 times on
October 18, 2000. An individual plant of each accession is represented in each
replication. The seedlings are spaced 4.5 feet apart within rows and 9 feet apart
between rows. The plot receives no supplemental irrigation. The spring following
planting, Vispore™ (3-ft x 3-ft) tree mats were installed on all entries to suppress weeds
and retard soil moisture evaporation.
A-8
-------
Appendix A
Table 2. Seed origin and elevation of entries in the Woody Comparative Evaluation
Planting.
Family/Species
Seed Origin
Elevation
Caprifoliaceae:
Symphoricarpos albus (L.) Blake
S. albus (L.) Blake
S. occidentalis Hook.
S. occidentalis Hook
S. occidentalis Hook
Elaeagnaceae:
Shepherdia argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
S. argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
S. argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
Grossulariaceae:
Ribes cereum Doug I.
R. cereum Dougl.
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Ravalli Co., MT
Deer Lodge Co., MT
CO Seed Source
Weston Co., WY
Deer Lodge Co., MT
UT Seed Source
SweetwaterCo., WY
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Chaffee Co., CO
6000ft
3500
5559
unknown
5000
6000
unknown
6000
5700
8000
Pinaceae:
Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
Rosaceae:
Rosa woods/7
R. woodsii
R. woodsii
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Albany Co., WY
CusterCo., ID
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Lawrence Co., SD
San Juan Co., CO
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Ravalli Co., MT
Pueblo Co., CO
6400
9500
6300
5850
5500
8000
5168
3400
6000
Plant survival, height, and vigor were assessed in 2001 (May 21 and August 14), 2002
(May 20 and August 20), 2003 (May 28 and August 26), 2004 (June 30), and 2005
(August 29). Plant height is measured in centimeters to the top of live foliage. Vigor is
measured on a scale of 1 to 9, with 1 representing excellent vigor and 9 representing
plant mortality.
Results and Discussion
Survival
Overall survival of the entrees in the Woody CEP after 1 year (2001) was local 91.4%
and nonlocal 79.2%) (table 3). The edaphic conditions have taken their toll, as survival
has decreased each subsequent year; 2002—local 84.3% and nonlocal 52.5%, 2003—
local 73.6% and nonlocal 43.8%, 2004—local 70.7% and nonlocal 40%, 2005 local
A-9
-------
Appendix A
61.4% and nonlocal 37.5%. Anaconda's 30-year average annual precipitation is
13.93 inches. The site was quite dry the year of establishment (2000—9.57 inches), but
the years following were near or above normal; 2001—13.99", 2002—16.23", 2003—
15.42", 2004—13.37", and 2005—15.75". Precipitation in Anaconda, therefore, was
probably not a major factor in plant mortality.
In all species except Symphoricarpos occidentalis, the "local" source had equal or better
survival than the "nonlocal" sources. As shown in table 3, the superior accessions
included Pinus ponderosa (Deer Lodge County, MT), P. ponderosa (Lawrence County,
SD), P. ponderosa (San Juan County, CO), Symphoricarpos albus (Deer Lodge County,
MT), and Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County, MT). Based on survival and
growth, the best overall performing species have been Pinus ponderosa, followed by
Symphoricarpos albus, Shepherdia argentea, and Rosa woodsii. All accessions of
Pinus contorta have performed poorly.
Growth
The average growth over the first 4-year period for the local source material was
14.99 cm (5.9 inches), while the nonlocal material averaged 10.33 cm (4.07") of growth.
In 2005, the local material averaged 13.44 cm of growth, while the nonlocal averaged
8.7 cm. Generally, the local source material outgrew the nonlocal material except for
the two snowberry species, Symphoricarpos alba and Symphoricarpos occidentalis, and
the lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta). Some of the shrubs exhibited leader mortality or
cropping by wildlife, which resulted in negative overall growth. The accessions with the
greatest sustained growth were Symphoricarpos albus (Ravalli County), Ribes cereum
(Deer Lodge County), Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County), Rosa woodsii (Deer
Lodge County), and Symphoricapos occidentalis (Wyoming source).
Vigor
Live plants were rated on a scale from 1 to 9 (1=highest rating) based on a visual
assessment of their vigor or robustness. Dead plants were entered as missing values.
The vigor rating for local source material was somewhat better than the nonlocal source
material, but not significantly so: 2001—local 3.8 vs. nonlocal 5.4, 2002—local 3.9 vs.
nonlocal 4.8 ,2003-local 5.1 vs. non-local 5.9, 2004-local 5.1 vs. non-local 5.9, and
2005-local 5.3 vs. non-local 5.9. No patterns in superior vigor seem to exist by species
or origin other than the local material has slightly better vigor rating than the non-local.
The top-ranking accession for vigor was Ribes cereum (Deer Lodge County) followed
by Shepherfia argentea (Deer Lodge County). As in the other categories, the lodgepole
pine Pinus contorta accessions had the poorest overall performance.
A-10
-------
Appendix A
Table 3. Woody comparative evaluation: 2002-2005
Replication
PICO 9078320
PICO m039ID0002
PICO m038WY0002
PIPO 9081318
PIPO m04C00002
PIPO m020SD9903
RICE 9081 329
RICE m024CO0003
ROWO 9081 638
ROWO m076C00003
ROWO m07MT0003
SHAR 9081 334
SHAR m022WY0005
SHARm015UT9901
SYAL 9078388
SYAL m045MT003
SYOC 9081 639
SYOCm021WY0004
SYOCm018CO9904
Vigor
2002
5.80
5.0
4.0
2.1
4.2
3.2
4.8
5.4
4.2
7.0
5.0
2.5
6.6
5.8
3.6
3.6
4.6
3.8
4.0
Vigor
2003
5.1
5.0
4.5
3.4
4.8
2.7
2.8
5.1
4.5
7.0
4.0
2.5
5.2
5.0
4.0
3.0
5.2
2.8
4.5
Vigor
2004
6.5
7.0
5.5
5.6
7.3
4.8
3.9
5.9
4.5
8.0
6.0
3.9
6.7
5.5
4.5
4.2
6.9
4.6
4.8
Vigor
2005
7.6
8.0
6.0
5.7
8.0
5.3
3.3
5.4
4.4
9.0
4.0
4.0
7.3
6.0
5.7
4.8
6.5
4.4
5.4
Avg. Ht.
2002 (cm)
10.1
12.8
14.5
24.7
14.3
26.8
25.5
12.3
26.1
9.0
12.0
29.9
5.6
9.2
18.7
18.3
18.1
24.8
16.6
Avg. Ht.
2003 (cm)
10.2
16.3
15.7
27.4
14.7
32.1
47.2
24.0
35.9
5.0
28.5
37.9
7.8
13.3
25.1
30.3
16.1
40.6
22.8
Avg. Ht.
2004 (cm)
11.8
16.0
18.0
25.8
13.7
31.5
52.0
25.6
39.4
4.0
21.7
41.7
12.7
15.0
28.5
33.7
18.6
37.5
23.7
Avg. Ht.
2005 (cm)
14.0
16.5
20.5
31.3
14.1
38.3
78.7
46.9
57.3
0.0
50.5
73.9
20.1
31.5
30.5
40.5
26.5
55.7
35.9
% Surv.
2002
85
30
20
100
85
100
75
65
75
15
20
80
60
25
90
30
85
90
90
% Surv.
2003
40
15
15
100
85
100
65
50
65
5
10
80
35
20
85
30
80
75
85
% Surv.
2004
25
10
5
95
85
95
70
50
65
5
15
80
30
10
95
30
65
70
75
% Surv.
2005
25
10
10
95
75
95
60
40
55
0
10
75
35
10
90
30
30
65
70
A- 11
-------
Appendix A
Conclusion
Several dead plants were dug up and it was observed that the roots of these plants had
not penetrated the native soil beyond their soil media plug area. It seems probable that
plants whose roots were able to tolerate the low pH and metalliferous surroundings
beyond their plug area flourished, while those with roots sensitive to the edaphic
contaminates declined.
The accessions that have had good survival and are now putting on substantial growth
include:
Pinus ponderosa (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Pinus ponderosa (Lawrence County, SD)
Ribes cereum (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Rosa woodsii (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Rosa woodsii (Ravalli County, MT)
Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Symphoricarpos albus (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Symphoricarpos occidentalis (Weston County, WY)
Recommendations
There are obvious limitations and apparent weaknesses in this study. Currently, only
one individual plant comprises an experimental unit. This is problematic because high
mortality at the plot resulted in replications lacking an experimental unit, thus generating
missing values. It is suggested that an experimental unit include five to ten individuals
and that the number or replications be decreased. A larger experimental unit would
also allow the harvesting of a few individuals for examination of subterranean growth.
Secondly, the "local" and "nonlocal" seedlings of each species in this study were
assembled from different growers and were not produced using identical cultural
techniques. It is important that accessions of each species are produced under the
same regimes. Thirdly, the current study lacks a control. A control plot located at a
relatively uncontaminated site is needed in order to compare soil effects and the
effectiveness of the treatments. It is believed that the installation of Vispore™ tree mats
was beneficial.
References
Bradshaw. A.D., M.O. Humphreys, and M.S. Johnson. 1978. The value of heavy metal
tolerance in the revegetation of metalliferous mine wastes, pp. 311-333. Ijr.
Environmental Management of Mineral Wastes. G.T. Goodman and M.J.
Chadwick (eds.). Sijthoff and Noordhoff, Alphen aan den Rejn, The Netherlands.
COM Federal. 1997. Final Baseline Ecological Risk Assessment, Volume 1. Prepared
for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region VIII, Montana Office.
October 1997.
A- 12
-------
Appendix A
Dutton, B. 1992, August 27. Old Works Revegetation Project, Planting Trials Survival
Analysis. ARCO Report, 11 p. Atlantic Richfield Company, Anaconda, MT.
Eliason, L. 1959, August. Anaconda Mineral Company Memorandum, Tailing Area
Tree Planting Status Report. Montana Historical Archives, Boxes 90 and 91,
Helena, MT
Gordon, R. 1984, December. Container Seedling Plots at Anaconda. Anaconda
Minerals Company Internal Correspondence, MSE Records Library, Butte, MT.
Keammerer, Warren R. 1995, July. U.S. District Court, District of Montana, Helena
Division. State of Montana vs. ARCO No. cv-83-317-HLN-PGH. Expert Report
of Warren Keammerer. July 13, 1995.
Reclamation Research Unit and Schafer and Associates. 1993. Streambank Tailing
and Revegetation Studies, STARS Phase III, Final Report. Montana Department
of Health and Environmental Sciences, Helena, MT.
Reclamation Research Unit. 1997, July. Anaconda Revegetation Treatability Studies,
Phase IV: Monitoring and Evaluation, Volume 1. Montana State University,
Bozeman, MT 59717-0290. Document No.: ASSS-ARTS-IV-FR-073197.
Smith, R.A. and A.D. Bradshaw. 1972. Stabilization of toxic mine wastes by the use of
tolerant plant populations. Trans. Inst. of Mining and Metallurgy 81 :A230-238.
A- 13
-------
Appendix A
STUCKY RIDGE MOTO-X SITE
A- 14
-------
Appendix A
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF GRASSES, FORBS, AND SEED MIXTURES
FROM "LOCAL" VERSUS "NON-LOCAL" ORIGINS
Moto-X—Stucky Ridge
Introduction
Currently the commercial varieties being utilized at the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site
include 'Pryor' slender wheatgrass, 'Sherman' big bluegrass, 'Sodar' streambank
wheatgrass, Trailhead' basin wildrye, 'Secar' and 'Goldar' bluebunch wheatgrass,
'Rosana' western wheatgrass, 'Critana' thickspike wheatgrass and 'Appar' Lewis flax.
Most of these varieties were developed for coal mineland reclamation in the saline, high
pH soils found in eastern Montana and Wyoming. This study's objective is to identify
and develop metal-tolerant plant varieties that are adapted to the edaphic conditions
found at the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site in western Montana and other mine-affected
areas with similar climatic and soil characteristics. This investigation is based on the
premise that germplasm originating from low pH and metalliferous soils will exhibit
significantly better establishment, cover, and biomass production when grown in lime-
amended metalliferous soils at the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site.
Methods and Materials
Study Site
The study is located on Stucky Ridge, ~2 mi northeast of Anaconda, Montana, in Deer
Lodge County. The legal description and geographic position of the study site are the
SW 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 30, Range 11 West, Township 5 North and North
46°09'097 West 112°54'30". The study plot occupies 1.5 acres in subpolygon OWSR-
013.09, which is part of the Stucky Ridge Remedial Design Unit (RDU) #1 within the
Anaconda Regional Water, Waste, and Soils Operable Unit.
RDU #1 encompasses 242 acres of the ~13,000 acres of upland terrestrial vegetation
contaminated by emission fallout from the Washoe, as well as the Upper and Lower
Works smelters. Concerns identified in the Stucky Ridge RDU include elevated arsenic
concentrations in surface soils, barren or sparsely vegetated areas due to low pH and
elevated contaminant concentrations, and steep slopes with high erosion potentials
(ARCO 2002, May) (table 1). Current and historic use of this area primarily consists of
agricultural grazing, recreation, and open space/wildlife habitat.
The plot site is situated on a stream terrace above Lost Creek at an elevation of
5308 feet and covers most of the relatively flat ground on the east end of Stucky Ridge.
The vegetation, although sparse, includes scattered groves of quaking aspen,
shrublands dominated by Wood's rose, currant species, rubber rabbitbrush, and
horsebrush; and grasslands dominated by redtop and basin wildrye. Annual
precipitation at the site ranges from 10 to 14 inches with most of the precipitation
occurring in the spring. The parent material is alluvium. The soil has a gravelly loam
texture and is well drained. The slope at the plot site averages ~5 to 10 percent.
A- 15
-------
Appendix A
Table 1. Pre-tillage soils data in the proximity of the plot site (ARCO 2002, May).
Soil Sample Station
040 OR 7-1
Q4°. °.R 71
Q4°. °.R T\
040 OR T\
99-098A
99-098B
QQ nQ8P
QQ nQ8n
QQ nQ8F
99-099A
99-099B
QQ nQQP
QQ noon
QQ nQQF
99-1 23A
99-123B
QQ-19^P
QQ.-lp-jn
QQ-19^F
99-1 63A
99-163B
QQ -Ifi^p
QQ -IR^n
QQ-1R-3F
Depth
inches
n o
0 Q
n o
O a
0-2
2-6
n R
619
19 18
0-2
2-6
n R
619
19 18
0-2
2-6
D-fi
fi-19
19-18
0-2
2-6
n R
619
19.18
As
mg/kg
495.0
163.0
489.0
95.8
656.0
167.0
537.0
256.0
Cu
mg/kg
1660.0
1320.0
1370.0
1020.0
1530.0
1530.0
2180.0
1430.0
Zn
mg/kg
419.0
276.0
303.0
245.0
425.0
332.0
493.0
365.0
Sat. Paste
PH
s.u.
A JO
A on
A an
A Rn
A on
7 Rn
7 8D
A nn
7 ^n
7 7D
4 4D
4 8D
fi ^0
A nn
6 on
Soil Treatment
The study plot site was ameliorated along with the rest of treatment area (OWSR-
013.09) following the remedial actions specified in the Remedial Action Work Plan/Final
Design Report (ARCO 2002, May). The remedy identified for this treatment area was
soil tilling to 12 inches with the addition of a neutralizing amendment to ameliorate the
low pH soil conditions. Remediation of the area was performed by Jordan Contracting,
Inc. and their subcontractors starting in the fall of 2002. According to the work report
from Jordan Contracting, Inc. (Bahr 2003, February 18) prior to tillage, many of the
erosion rills and gullies were graded using a D8 Dozer and a CAT 330 excavator. The
entire treatment area was pre-tilled by Western Reclamation, Inc. with a Rhome™ disc
to approximately 12 inches in mid-September. Lime kiln dust, procured from
Continental Lime, Inc., was then applied at a rate of ~22.0 tons/acre to neutralize the
soil. Four additional passes were made with the Rhome™ disc to a depth of 12 inches
to incorporate the lime. Lime incorporation was completed on November 14, 2002.
In the spring of 2003, fertilizer (12% N, 16%P205, 30% K20) was applied at a rate of
500 bulk pounds per acre and incorporated to 6 inches using a chisel plow. The tillage
area was drill seeded in early May 2003 at a rate of 25 Ibs/acre with "Revegetation Mix
#1." Table 2 below lists the soil characteristics of pre-tillage soil data points closest to
A-16
-------
Appendix A
the study site (northwest portion of treatment area [OWSR-013.09] as stated in the
Remedial Action Work Plan/Final Design Report [ARCO 2002, May]).
Table 2. Post-planting grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trial (0- to 6-inch) composite soil sample
analysis from the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting.
Sample Id.
GR1
GR2
GR3
GR4
GDR1
GDR3
FR1
FR2
FR3
FR4
FD1
FD3
MR1
MR2
MRS
MR4
MDR1
MDR3
Sample Description.
Grass Trial, Rep. 1
Grass Trial, Rep. 2
Grass Trial, Rep. 3
Grass Trial, Rep. 4
Grass Trial, Rep. 1 ,
Duolicate
Grass Trial, Rep. 3,
Alternate
Forb Trial, Rep. 1
Forb Trial, Rep. 2
Forb Trial, Rep. 3
Forb Trial, Rep. 4
Forb Trial, Rep. 1,
Duolicate
Forb Trial, Rep. 3,
Duplicate
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 1
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 2
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 3
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 4
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 1,
Duplicate
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep 3,
Alternate
PH
s.u.
8.2
8.1
7.9
8.0
7.7
7.7
8.0
7.2
7.7
7.6
8.0
7.9
8.0
7.5
7.7
7.8
7.4
8.1
As
mg/kg
120
117
132
212
121
178
115
127
153
127
91
106
39
367
39
257
130
29
Cd
mg/kg
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
2
2
NDf
1
1
2
ND
2
1
ND
Cu
mg/kg
797
906
833
985
703
845
774
888
1010
1080
681
828
721
909
706
857
925
525
Pb
mg/kg
35
34
43
61
39
57
38
45
45
40
31
33
6
97
12
91
35
9
Zn
mg/kg
174
177
195
228
153
201
185
182
220
210
170
171
143
226
161
209
165
153
t ND: Not detected at the reporting limit.
Post-Treatment Soil Sampling Methods
Soil sampling of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials was completed on
June 24, 2003, after planting. The soil samples were analyzed for pH (1:1 saturated
paste), and total As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn by Energy Laboratories, Inc. in Billings,
Montana. At the grass trial eight randomly selected treatment blocks in each replication
were subsampled. The eight (0- to 6-inch, 0- to 15-cm) composite subsamples
collected from a replication were combined and mixed to form one representative
sample. Duplicate soil samples were taken in replication 1 and alternate soil samples
were taken in replication 3. In the forb/subshrub trial, four (0- to 6-inch) subsamples
were taken per replication to form one representative sample. Duplicate subsamples
were taken in replications 1 and 3. In the mixture trial, two (0- to 6-inch) subsamples
A- 17
-------
Appendix A
were taken per replication to form one representative sample. Duplicate subsamples
were taken in replication 1 and alternate subsamples were taken in replication 3.
The arsenic and metal concentrations of the post-planting soil samples were generally
moderate with the exception of copper. Copper concentrations within the three trials
averaged 832 mg/kg and ranged from 525 mg/kg to 1080 mg/kg. The average copper
concentrations in the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials were 845 mg/kg,
877 mg/kg, and 774 mg/kg, respectively. The pH of post-planting soil samples were all
above neutral, averaging 7.8 and ranging from 7.2 to 8.2.
Planting Design
The study is arranged as three separate trials (grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture)
each in a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated four times. The three trials
are situated adjacent to each other as shown in figure 1. The grass, forb/subshrub, and
seed mixture trials are 0.96 acre, 0.44 acre, and 0.14 acre, respectively, with a total plot
size of 1.52 acres. Between each replication, as well as between trials, an 8-foot strip
of Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' was planted to minimize edge effect. The seed bed was
prepared by DATC Project personnel on April 22, 2003, using a 5-foot box scraper to
level the soil. Rocks greater than 6 inches in diameter within the plot boundary were
hand-picked. After rock removal, another pass was made with the box scraper and
spike-tooth harrow to till out tractor tire compressions.
On May 13, 2003, the seed treatments were planted using a 4-row Kincaid™ cone drill
with 1-ft row spacing and a 0.5-inch planting depth. The seeding rate for the grass and
forb/subshrub trials was 50 Pure Live Seeds (PLS) per linear foot of row. The seeding
rate for the seed mixture trial was based on a total seeding rate of 50 PLS per square
foot. Each component of the mix was calculated as a percentage of the per-square-foot
rate.
The seed mixtures were formulated for two distinct applications. An "Upland" blend was
designed for sloping areas with generally low water infiltration and to provide wildlife
habitat. The "Waste Management Area" (WMA) blend was designed to provide a
vegetative cover for areas in which remedial options appear to be limited and their use
for containment of large volumes of waste appears logical (EPA, 1995a). The seed
mixtures referred to as "Developed" are the seed formulations, utilizing commercially
available cultivars, currently specified for use in the Remedial Action Work Plan/Final
Design Report 2002. The seed mixture previously referred to as Revegetation Mix #1,
planted in the surrounding treatment area, is synonymous with the "Upland Developed"
seed mixture. The seed mixtures referred to as "Experimental" are local ecotypes of the
same species from mine-impacted lands.
Each treatment block is 8 feet (8 rows) by 25 feet. In the grass and forb/subshrub trials,
each treatment block was planted with a single accession. Two exceptions exist due to
seed quantity restraints. In all replications of the grass trial, Pascopyrum smithii
9081968 was drilled in only 6 rows with Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' drilled into the
remaining 2 rows. In all replications of the forb/subshrub trial, Eriogonum ovalifolium
A-18
-------
Appendix A
9082098 was drilled into only 4 rows with Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' drilled into the
remaining 4 rows.
As mentioned above, Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' was drilled in the border strips and
also broadcast in the unplanted area south of the forb/subshrub trial. Wooden stakes,
spray painted orange and marked with an identification number, were installed in the
northeast corner of each treatment block. Lastly, a single-strand, smooth wire fence
was installed around the perimeter of the plot to designate plot boundaries and restrict
vehicular trespassing. In mid-July and again in mid-September, volunteer Canadian
thistle was spot sprayed initially with a 3% solution of 2-4-D Amine and subsequently
with a 3% solution of Stinger™ (Clopyralid) applied with a backpack sprayer.
Seeded Species
The species entries consist of 36 grass accessions representing 9 grass genera, 14 forb
accessions representing 5 forb genera, 2 subshrub accessions representing 1 subshrub
species, and 4 seed mixtures representing 2 seed mixture formulations (tables 3-8).
The 15 total genera tested were selected for inclusion in the study based on results
from previous Development of Acid/Heavy Metal-Tolerant Cultivars (DATC) Project
studies such as the Initial Evaluation Planting study (Marty 2000, July) and the
Greenhouse Comparative Evaluation Planting study (Marty 2001, October).
Each genus tested includes at least one accession originating from metalliferous soil
sites in the proximity of the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site, except in one case. Neither of
the two Krascheninnikovia lanata accessions originated from metalliferous soils. In this
report, accessions that originated from metalliferous soils are referred to as "local,"
whereas accessions originating from undisturbed soils are referred to as "non-local."
Sampling Methods
Seedling density was the growth response variable used to assess performance during
the first growing season (2003). Measurements were taken using an 11.8- x 19.7-inch
(30- x 50-cm) quadrat frame that was randomly placed at five sample locations within
each (8- x 25-ft) treatment block. The quadrat was situated with its long axis
perpendicular to the seeded rows so that each sampling measurement included two
rows. Seedlings rooted within the quadrat frame were counted. Seeded seedlings, as
well as non-seeded seedlings, were counted and recorded separately. Photographs of
each treatment block were taken during sampling events. Density data was collected
on June 24, 2003, to assess emergence and initial establishment and on August 25,
2003, to assess subsequent establishment and/or die off.
A-19
-------
Appendix A
Table 3. Forb and subshrub treatments included in the forb/subshrub trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands
Comparative Evaluation Planting.
Species
ld.#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Genus & Species
Eriogonum ovalifolium
Eriogonum umbellatum
Eriogonum umbellatum
Krascheninnikovia lantana
Krascheninnikovia lantana
Penstemon eriantherus
Penstemon eatonii
Penstemon strictus
Penstemon venustus
Ph a cell a hastata
Ph a cell a hastata
Potentilla gracilis
Potentilla hippiana
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Accession/Variety
9082098
9082271
9082273
Northern Cold Desert Germplasm
Open Range Germplasm
Old Works Germplasm
Richfield Selected
'Bandera' 477980
Clearwater Selected
9081 632
9082275
9081679
9076274
9078675
9081 678
9082274
Origin
Deer Lodge County, MT
Utah
Idaho
Composite from UT & ID
Composite from MT & WY
Deer Lodge County, MT
Sevier County, UT
Torrance County, NM
Clearwater River area, ID
Deer Lodge County, MT
California
California
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Colorado
Unknown
Table 4. Grass treatments included in the grass trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands Comparative
Evaluation Planting.
Specie
s ld.#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
Genus & Species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia cespitosa
Deschampsia cespitosa
Deschampsia cespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Accession/Variety
9081628
9081629
'Rimrock'
'Nezpar'
9076276
9081619
9076266
'Streaker'
9076290
9082620
'Nortran'
9081620
9081621
'Pryor'
'Revenue'
'San Luis'
9081624
9081625
Washoe Germplasm
Origin
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Yellowstone County, MT
White Bird, ID
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Illinois
Silver Bow County, MT
California
Alaska
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Carbon County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Rio Grande County, CO
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
A-20
-------
Appendix A
Table 4. Grass treatments included in the grass trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands Comparative
Evaluation Planting-Continued.
Species
ld.#
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
Genus & Species
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa secunda (amp/a)
Poa secunda (amp/a)
Poa secunda (canbyi)
Poa species
Poa species
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus wawawaiensis
Accession/Variety
'Magnar'
Trailhead'
9081 968T
'Rodan'
'Rosana'
9016273
9082259
'Gruening'
9082266
9081633
'Sherman'
'Canbar'
9081635
9081322
9081636
'Goldar'
'Secar'
Origin
Saskatchewan, Canada
Musselshell County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Morton County, ND
Rosebud County, MT
Gallatin County, MT
British Columbia, Canada
France/Switzerland
Unknown
Deer Lodge County, MT
Sherman County, OR
Columbia County, WA
Deer Lodge County, MT
Lewis & Clark County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Asotin County, WA
Washington
Table 5. Upland Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation.
Species
ld.#
1
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Poa secunda (ampla)
Pseudoroegneria spicata
9081629
9081620
Washoe Germ.
9081968
90816273
9081 633
9081 636
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Gallatin County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
15.0
15.0
15.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
15.0
FORBS:
Aster chilensis
Penstemon eriantherus
Potentilla hippiana
9078675
Old Works Germ.
9076274
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Silverbow County, MT
2.5
5.0
2.5
Table 6. Upland Areas - Developed Seed Mix Formulation.
Species
Id. #
2
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus lanceolatus
Elymus trachycaulus
Festuca ovina
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda (ampla)
Pseudoroegneria spicata
'Nezpar'
'Critana'
'Revenue'
'Covar'
'Magnar'
'Rosana'
'Sherman'
'Goldar'
White Bird, ID
Hill County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Central Turkey
Saskatchewan, Canada
Rosebud County, MT
Sherman County, OR
Asotin County, WA
5.0
15.0
15.0
10.0
15.0
10.0
14.5
10.0
FORBS:
Achillea lanulosa
Artemisia frigida
Linum lewisii
Great Northern
9082258
'Appar'
Flathead County, MT
Unknown
Custer County, SD
2.5
0.5
2.5
A-21
-------
Appendix A
Table 7. Waste Management Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation
Species
ld.#
3
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia cespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda (ampla)
Stipa comata
9076276
9076290
9081620
Washoe Germ.
9081 968
9081 633
907831 4
Deer Lodge County, MT
Silverbow County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
15
10
15
15
5
10
10
FORBS:
Aster chilensis
9078675
Deer Lodge County, MT
10
Table 8. Waste Management Areas - Developed Seed Mix Formulation.
Species
Id. #
4
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Agropyrum intermedium
Bromus inermis
Elymus lanceolatus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secumda (ampla)
Stipa viridula
'Greenar'
'Manchar'
'Critana'
'Revenue'
'Magnar'
'Sherman'
9082255
Former USSR
Manchuria, China
Hill County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Saskatchewan, Canada
Sherman County, OR
Washington
10
15
10
15
15
10
10
FORBS:
Medicago sativa
'Ladak'
Kashmir, India
15
Data was collected on June 30/July 1 and again on September 22-23, 2004 and on
August 29-30, 2005. During the early summer sampling, four randomly located frames
(30 x 50 cm) were utilized, from which average plant height was measured, percentage
stand was estimated, and ocular estimates of plant vigor were made. Random samples
were located along rows 2-3 and 6-7 to avoid edge-effect error. In the fall the same
random frame locations were used to estimate percentage stand, plant vigor, plant
height (2005) and sample biomass production. If combined biomass samples from all
four replications did not yield at least 10 grams of material, additional clipping was done
so that there would be enough biomass for tissue analysis. All biomass samples were
oven dried at 60°C (14°F) for 24 hours, weighed, and later cut into small pieces and
packaged in plastic zip-lock bags for delivery to Energy Laboratories, Inc. for tissue
analysis.
Results and Discussion
Grass Trial (2003)
The grand mean of seedling density data collected on June 24, 2003, in the grass trial
was 5.4 seedlings/ft2 and ranged from 15.0 to 0.3 seedlings/ft2 (tables 9 and 10). Three
accessions of Elymus trachycaulus ('Pryor', 9081620, and 'San Luis') had the greatest
seedling densities at 15.0, 14.1, and 13.6, respectively. These results are not surprising
as Elymus trachycaulus is recognized for its excellent seedling vigor and quick
establishment and growth on a variety of soil types. Density data collected 2 months
later on August 25, 2003, indicated that these three E. trachycaulus accessions had
significantly greater densities than 86% of the accessions tested. The locally collected
A-22
-------
Appendix A
E. trachycaulus 9081620, however, did not perform significantly better than 'Pryor' or
'San Luis'.
Pascopyrum smithii ('Rosana' and 9081968) had 13.3 and 12.7 seedlings/ft2,
respectively, on June 24 (table 9). P. smithii is an aggressively rhizomatous, long-lived
grass known to be adapted to a wide range of soil types from acidic to basic. Seedling
density data collected on August 25 indicated that the above P. smithii accessions also
had significantly greater densities than 86% of the accessions tested including P. smithii
'Rodan'.
Seedling density data from the June evaluation indicated that Leymus cinereus
9081624 had significantly greater density (7.8 seedlings/ft2) than 80.5% of the
accessions including the four other Leymus cinereus accessions (table 9). However, by
the August evaluation L. cinereus 9081624 was not significantly better than L. cinereus
Trailhead' (table 10). This accession's success is somewhat unexpected due to the
species' poor to fair seedling vigor and slow seedling establishment. This species has
been reported to be tolerant of elevated arsenic and heavy metal concentrations
(Munshower 1998, September).
The Pseudoroegneria spicata accessions ('Goldar' and 9081636) also performed in the
top third of the field in June and August (tables 9 and 10). In August, both accessions
mentioned above had significantly better seedling densities than >50% of the
accessions. The local accession P. spicata 9081636 did not perform significantly better
than P. spicata 'Goldar'. P. spicata is reported to have fair seedling vigor and
establishment with tolerances to acidic to slightly alkaline soils.
The grand mean for the August 25, 2003, evaluation is 4.3 seedlings/ft2 and ranged
from 14.5 to 0.31 seedlings/ft2 (table 10). This indicates that seedling density declined
by 1.1 seedlings/ft2 or 20.4% between the June and August evaluations
Grass Trials (2004)
Based on the number of new seedlings found in 2004, there were many seeds that did
not germinate during the 2003 growing season. The most notable species were
Achnatherum hymenoides (Indian ricegrass), Leymus cinereus (basin wildrye), and
Pascopyrum smithii (western wheatgrass). Indian ricegrass has a hard seed coat and
should normally be dormant-seeded in the fall, but the basin wildrye and western
wheatgrass may have delayed germination because of the combination of a relatively
late spring planting date and subsequent hot, dry weather. The increase in new
seedlings could be expressed in relatively higher percentage stands, but was not
revealed in the biomass production, as seedlings were still quite small at the time of the
late summer biomass sampling.
At the early summer sampling (6/30/04), the top accession, by a significant amount, was
9081620 slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus) with a 61.3% stand, 54.4 cm
average height, and a 3.4 vigor rating. Other 'local source' accessions that exhibited
A-23
-------
Appendix A
good survival, stand, and vigor included 9081633 big bluegrass (Poa secunda),
9081621 slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus), 9081621 western wheatgrass
(Pascopyrum smithii), 9081624 basin wildrye (Leymus cinereus), 9081628 Indian
ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides), 9081635 Canby bluegrass (Poa secunda), and
9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) (see table 11 and 12).
Toward the end of the growing season (9/22/04 sampling date), there was very little
change in the top performing accessions (table 13). Of the top 16 accessions in the
early summer evaluation, 15 were still ranked as the top performing accessions. The
9081620 slender wheatgrass remained as the top performer by a significant margin. Of
the 'local source' accessions, 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081621 slender wheatgrass,
9081968 western wheatgrass, 9081635 Canby bluegrass, 9081624 basin wildrye, and
9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass all show promise, and are among those being
increased at the Bridger PMC for potential release to the commercial seed industry.
Fall biomass production was relatively low, with only 9081620 slender wheatgrass
producing more than 706 kg/ha (2,083 kg/ha) (table 14). Some of the low production
can be attributed to the number of new seedlings emerging in 2004. Also 2-year-old
plants were often spindly because of the harsh edaphic conditions. Toward the end of
the growing season (9/22/04 sampling date), there was very little change in the top
performing accessions (table 13). Of the top 16 accessions in the early summer
evaluation, 15 were still ranked as the top performing accessions. The 9081620 slender
wheatgrass remained as the top performer by a significant margin. Of the 'local source'
accessions, 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081621 slender wheatgrass, 9081968 western
wheatgrass, 9081635 Canby bluegrass, 9081624 basin wildrye, and 9081636
bluebunch wheatgrass all show promise, and are among those being increased at the
Bridger PMC for potential release to the commercial seed industry. Fall biomass
production was relatively low, with only 9081620 slender wheatgrass producing more
than 706 kg/ha (2,083 kg/ha) (table 14). Some of the low production can be attributed
to the number of new seedlings emerging in 2004. Also 2-year-old plants were often
spindly because of the harsh edaphic conditions.
Grass Trials (2005)
The grasses were evaluated and sampled on August 30, 2005. Although there has
been some mortality, the top performers of 2003/2004 continue to exhibit their ability to
withstand the harsh edaphic conditions of this site. Slender wheatgrass (9081620) is
the top performer with an average stand of 75% (table 15), average plant height of
87.5 cm (table 16), and average biomass production of 8,211 kg/ha (table 17). Other
superior accessions include 9081633 big bluegrass (stand-43.4%, biomass-2,506
kg/ha), 9081621 slender wheatgrass (stand-34.1%, biomass-4,100 kg/ha), 9081635
bluegrass (stand-25.9%, biomass-906 kg/ha), 9081968 western wheatgrass (stand-
21.9%, biomass-800 kg/ha), and 9081624 basin wildrye (stand-22.2%, biomass-1,844
kg/ha). The released cultivars, Secar Snake River wheatgrass, Pryor slender
wheatgrass, San Luis slender wheatgrass, Rosana western wheatgrass, and Trailhead
basin wildrye were among the top performers; but, in most cases, performances were
slightly less than their indigenous counterparts.
A-24
-------
Appendix A
Grass Trial Rep 1 Rep 2
4 ACHY Nezpar
24 PASM Rosana
19LECI Washoe
28 POAL 1858
26POAL01-13-1
21 LECI Trailhead
16 ELTR San Luis
25 POAL 901 6273
11 DECE Nortran
27 POAL Gruening
14 ELTR Pryor
10 DECE 13970176
3 ACHY Rimrock
12 ELTR 9081 620
30 POSE Sherman
17 LECI 9081 624
36 ELWA Secar
7 AGGI 9076266
22 PASM 9081 968
6 AGGI 9081619
8 AGGI Streaker
13 ELTR 9081621
29 POSE 9081 633
18 LECI 9081 625
33POSP9081322
15 ELTR Revenue
35 PSSP Goldar
1 ACHY 908 1628
9 DECE 9076290
31 POSE Canbar
34 PSSP 9081 636
32 POSP 9081635
2 ACHY 9081 629
5 AGGI 9076276
23 PASM Rodan
20 LECI Magnar
4 WMA Dev
1 UP Exp
2 UP Dev
3 WMA Exp
16 ELTR San Luis
32 POSP 9081635
22 PASM 9081 968
2 ACHY 9081 629
15 ELTR Revenue
36 ELWA Secar
13 ELTR 9081 621
1 ACHY 908 1628
6 AGGI 9081619
26 POAL 01 -13-1
3 ACHY Rimrock
19 LECI Washoe
12 ELTR 9081 620
27 POAL Gruening
17 LECI 9081 624
5 AGGI 9076276
30 POSE Sherman
10 DECE 13970176
11 DECE Nortran
34 PSSP 9081 636
18 LECI 9081 625
8 AGGI Streaker
33 POSP 9081 322
21 LECI Trailhead
29 POSE 9081 633
9 DECE 9076290
14 ELTR Pryor
23 PASM Rodan
28 POAL 1858
24 PASM Rosana
31 POSE Canbar
4 ACHY Nezpar
35 PSSP Goldar
20 LECI Magnar
7 AGGI 9076266
25 POAL 901 6273
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
1 UP Exp
4 WMA Dev
30 POSE Sherman
23 PPSM Lodorm
29 POSE 9081633
35 PSSP Goldar
32 POSP 9081635
7 AGGI 9076266
21 LECI Trailhead
5 AGGI 9076276
1 ACHY 908 1628
26 POAL 01 -13-1
3 ACHY Rimrock
27 POAL Gruening
13 ELTR 9081 621
34 PSSP 9081 636
10 DECE 13970176
15 ELTR Revenue
18 LECI 9081 625
12 ELTR 9081 620
25 POAL 901 6273
2 ACHY 9081 629
8 AGGI Streaker
16 ELTR San Luis
22 PASM 9081 968
11 DECE Nortran
4 ACHY Nezpar
33 POSP 9081322
28 POAL 1858
24 PASM Rosana
20 LECI Magnar
36 ELWA Secar
6 AGGI 9081619
31 POSE Canbar
14 ELTR Pryor
17 LECI 9081 624
9 DECE 9076290
19 LECI Washoe
4 WMA Dev
1 UP Exp
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
20 LECI Magnar
36 ELNA Secar
11 DECE Nortran
18 LECI 9081625
10 DECE 13970176
8 AGGI Streaker
4 ACHY Nezpar
30 POSE Sherman
35 PSSP Goldar
23 PASM Rodan
16 ELTR San Luis
25 POAL 901 6273
29 POSE 9081633
12 ELTR 9081 620
9 DECE 9076290
27 POAL Gruening
6 AGGI 9081619
5 AGGI 9076276
13 ELTR 9081621
32 POSP 9081 635
2 ACHY 908 1629
33 POSP 9081 322
26 POAL 01 -13-1
7 AGGI 9076266
15 ELTR Revenue
22 PASM 9081968
28 POAL 1858
31 POSE Canbar
14 ELTR Pryor
24 PASM Rosana
19 LECI Washoe
34 PSSP 9081 636
17 LECI 9081 624
3 ACHY Rimrock
1 ACHY 908 1628
21 LECI Trailhead
1 UP Exp
4 WMA Dev
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
Rfin 1 Rep 2 Rfip 4
10PHHA 9081 632
12 POGI 9081679
1 EROV 9082098
1 4 SYCH 9078675
16SYCH5255-RS
6 PEER Old Works
4 KRLA NCD
9 PEVE Clearwater
7 PEEA Richfield
11 PH HA 9003
SERUM 01 -206-1
15 SYCH 908 1678
8 PEST Bandera
13POHI 9076274
5 KRLA Op. Range
2 ERUM 450
12 POGI 9081679
9 PEVE Clearwater
5 KRLA Op. Range
4 KRLA NCD
16SYCH5255-RS
13POHI 9076274
10 PHHA 9081632
15 SYCH 9081 678
1 1 PHHA 9003
8 PEST Bandera
2 ERUM 450
1 EROV 9082098
6 PEER Old Works
3 ERUM 01-206-1
7 PEEA Richfield
14 SYCH 9078675
8 PEST Bandera
5 KRLA Op. Range
4 KRLA NCD
15 SYCH 9081 678
9 PEVE Clearwater
1 EROV 9082098
6 PEER Old Works
7 PEEA Richfield
3 ERUM 01-206-1
12 POOR 9081 679
1 1 PHHA 9003
10 PHHA 9081 632
2 ERUM 450
13POHI 9076274
16SYCH5255-RS
14 SYCH 9078675
1 1 PHHA 9003
10 PHHA 9081 632
5 KRLA Op. Range
13 POHI 9076274
6 PEER Old Works
8 PEST Bandera
15 SYCH 9081 678
7 PEEA Richfield
4 KRLA NCD
12 POOR 9081 679
2 ERUM 450
9 PEVE Clearwater
1 EROV 9082098
14 SYCH 9078675
16SYCH5255-RS
3 ERUM 01 -206-1
Rep 3 Rep 4
Seed Mixture Trial
Not to Scale
N
Forb/Subshrub
Trial
Figure 1. Layout of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials at the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting.
A-25
-------
Appendix A
Table 9. Density (seedlings per square foot) sampled on June 24, 2003, at the Stucky Ridge
Comparative Evaluation Planting grass trial.
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Poa species
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Poa species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa secunda
Deschampsia cespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa alpine
Accession
'Pryor'
9081620
'San Luis'
'Rosana'
9081 968
9081 636
9081 624
'Secar'
9081621
'Goldar'
'Nezpar'
'Revenue'
9081 633
'Magnar'
Trailhead'
'Rodan'
9081 625
Washoe Germplasm
'Sherman'
9081619
9016273
9081 635
9076276
9082266
9081 322
'Rimrock'
9076290
'Canbar'
'Nortran'
9076266
9081 629
'Streaker'
9082259
9081 628
9082260
'Gruening'
Species ID
14
12
16
24
22
34
17
36
13
35
4
15
29
20
21
23
18
19
30
6
25
32
5
28
33
3
9
31
11
7
2
8
26
1
10
27
Density/ft2
14.97
14.09
13.63
13.31
12.72
11.75
11.25
9.47
9.34
9.09
8.94
8.75
7.13
6.13
5.81
5.66
3.84
3.66
3.13
2.38
2.34
1.88
1.75
1.72
1.31
1.28
1.28
1.22
1.00
0.81
0.78
0.75
0.66
0.59
0.56
0.34
Mean Separation
A*
AB
AB
AB
AB
BC
BC
CD
CD
CDE
CDEF
CDEFG
DEFG
EFGH
FGH
GH
HI
HIJ
HIJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
IJ
J
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the Duncan's
Multiple Range Test.
A-26
-------
Appendix A
Table 10. Density (seedlings per square foot) sampled on August 25, 2003, at the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting
grass trial.
Genus & Species
Accession
Species ID
Density/ft Mean Separation
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus wawawaiensis
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpine
Poa alpine
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpine
Poa species
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpine
Poa secunda
Deschampsia cespitosa
Deschampsia cespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
9081 620
'San Luis'
'Pryor'
'Rosana'
9081 968
'Revenue'
9081 624
'Goldar'
9081 636
'Secar'
'Nezpar'
9081621
'Rodan'
9081 633
Trailhead'
'Magnar'
9081 625
'Sherman'
9081619
Washoe Germplasm
9076276
9082266
9082259
9076266
'Rimrock'
9016273
9081 635
'Nortran'
9081 322
9081 628
'Gruening'
'Canbar'
9076290
9082260
'Streaker'
9081 629
12
16
14
24
22
15
17
35
34
36
4
13
23
29
21
20
18
30
6
19
5
28
26
7
3
25
32
11
33
1
27
31
9
10
8
2
14.47
13.44
12.13
12.00
11.59
8.38
7.81
7.28
7.16
6.56
6.53
6.09
5.75
5.16
4.91
3.00
2.44
2.34
2.28
2.16
1.47
1.25
1.03
0.97
0.91
0.91
0.91
0.88
0.72
0.59
0.53
0.47
0.44
0.38
0.34
0.31
A*
A
A
A
A
B
BC
BC
BC
BC
BC
BC
BCD
CDE
CDE
DEF
EF
EF
EF
EF
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the Duncan's
Multiple Range Test.
A-27
-------
Appendix A
Table 11. Percentage stand and vigor of grass trials on Stucky Ridge Plots (evaluated
6/30/04).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Deschampsia cespitosa
Accession
9081620
Rim rock
9081633
9081621
Pryor
9081968
Nezpar
9081624
Secar
Revenue
San Luis
9081628
Rosana
Trailhead
9081635
9081636
Washoe
Magnar
Rodan
9081619
9081625
Goldar
9081629
9076276
Sherman
1—13-1
9076290
9081322
9016273
9076266
1858
Nortran
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
13970176
Stand
%
61.3 a*
31.3 b
31.3 b
28.4 be
26.9 bed
26.7 bed
25.3 bcde
20.8 bcdef
20 bcdefg
19.7 cdefg
18.6 cdefgh
18.3 cdefgh
16.9 defghi
15.1 efghij
15 efghij
14.5 efghijk
12.8 fghijkl
12.2 fghijkl
11.8 fghijklm
10.7 fghijklm
10.1 fghijklm
10 fghijklm
8.6 ghijklm
8.1 hijklm
6.2 ijklm
4.1 jklm
4 jklm
3.6 klm
3.3 klm
3.1 klm
1.4 Im
0.6 m
0.5 m
0.4 m
0.4 m
0.2 m
Vigor
1-9
3.4
4.8
3.3
4.8
4.8
4.9
5
4.4
4.6
4.8
4.8
5.6
4.75
4.8
3.3
5.3
5
5.3
5.3
3.2
5.5
5
5.7
2.6
4.8
3.3
4.2
4.3
4.6
2.5
4.5
2.1
4
5.2
6.2
5.3
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-28
-------
Appendix A
Table 12. Average plant height of grasses in Stucky Ridge
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls glgantea
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Elymus wawawaiensis
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostls glgantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Deschampsla cespltosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Agrostls glgantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpine
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsla cespltosa
Poa secunda
Poa secunda
Deschampsla cespltosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Accession
9081620
9081621
9076276
9081619
9081633
Secar
9081635
Goldar
9076266
Pryor
9081624
9081322
Nezpar
Trailhead
San Luis
9076290
Revenue
Rosana
Rim rock
Magnar
Washoe
Rodan
9081636
9081968
9081625
Streaker
9081628
1-13—1
9081629
13970176
Sherman
Canbar
Nortran
9016273
Gruening
1858
plots (measured 6/30/04).
Height
mm
54.4
34.2
33.3
27.1
26.5
24
23.3
22.5
21
18.5
17.9
17.5
16.9
16.1
14.5
14.5
14.3
13.5
13
12.8
12.5
12.3
12
11.3
10.6
10.3
9.1
8.1
7.6
7
6.8
6.3
6
5.8
4.5
3.9
a*
c
cd
cde
cdef
defg
efgh
efghi
efghij
efghijk
efghijkl
fghijkl
ghijklm
ghijklmn
hijklmno
hijklmno
hijklmno
ijklmno
jklmnop
jklmnop
jklmnop
jklmnop
jklmnop
klmnop
klmnop
klmnop
Imnop
mnop
mnop
nop
nop
op
op
op
P
P
' Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-29
-------
Appendix A
Table 13. Percentage stand and vigor of grasses in Stucky Ridge plots (evaluated
9/22/04).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa sp.
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Poa sp.
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Dechampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Dechampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Dechampsia cespitosa
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081968
Pryor
Rosana
Rim rock
9081635
Revenue
9081624
Trailhead
Secar
San Luis
Nezpar
9081636
9081619
Rodan
9076276
9081628
Washoe
Magnar
Goldar
Sherman
9081322
9081625
9081629
01-13-1
9076266
9076290
9016273
1858
Streaker
13970176
Gruening
Nortran
Canbar
Stand
%
61.3 a*
37.2 c
30 cd
28.4 cde
27.5 cde
26.3 de
24.1 def
24.1 def
23.8 defg
22.8 defgh
20 defghi
19.2 defghi
19.1 defghi
18.4 efghij
17.9 efghij
17.8 efghij
16.6 fghijk
15.9 fghijk
14.4 ghijkl
14.1 ghijkl
13.4 ghijkl
13.4 ghijkl
12.2 hijklm
11.9 ijklm
11.6 ijklmn
11.3 ijklmno
8.4 jklmnop
7.8 jklmnop
6.3 klmnop
5.2 Imnop
4.4 Imnop
1.9 mnop
1.9 mnop
1.1 op
0.4 op
0 op
Vigor
1—9
1.8
2.4
2.7
4
4.6
3.6
4.2
2.8
4.3
3.6
4
4
4.4
4.1
3.8
2.1
4.5
2.7
4.9
4.6
4.7
4.1
4.1
2.9
4.1
5.4
3.6
2.1
2.8
3.6
3.6
4
3.3
3.3
3
9
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-30
-------
Appendix A
Table 14. Biomass production of grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls glgantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus wawawiensis
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa sp.
Dechampsia cespitosa
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa sp.
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Dechampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Dechampsia cespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081619
9081621
9081633
Pryor
Secar
9081624
Trailhead
Revenue
Washoe
9076276
Sherman
San Luis
9081635
9076290
9081636
Rosana
Rim rock
9081625
Rodan
Goldar
9081322
9076266
01-13-1
9081968
Nezpar
13970176
9016273
9081629
9081628
Magnar
1858
Gruening
Nortran
Streaker
Canbar
(clipped 9/22/04).
Biomass
kg/ha
2,083 a*
706
544
408
386
346
216
192
172
148
148
115
100
100
99
97
95
84
52
45
43
34
29
14
11
9
8
7
4
4
3
2
2
1
tr
0
cd
cde
cdef
cdef
def
ef
ef
ef
ef
ef
ef
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
f
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-31
-------
Appendix A
Table15. Percentage stand and vigor of grass trials on Stucky Ridge Plots (evaluated
8/30/05).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus wawiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Agrostis giganteus
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081635
Pryor
9081624
9081968
Secar
San Luis
Rosana
Trailhead
Rodan
9081628
Rimrock
9081625
9081636
9081619
Washoe
9076276
Sherman
Nezpar
Revenue
Goldar
Magnar
9076290
9081322
9076266
9081629
01-13-1
1858
9016273
Nortran
13970176
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
Stand
%
75.0 a*
43.4 b
34.1 be
25.9 cd
23.1 cde
22.2 cdef
21.9 defg
21 .6 defg
20.9 defgh
20.6 defgh
16.2 defghi
16.2 defghi
14.1 defghij
14.1 defghij
13.8 defghij
13.8 defghij
13.4 efghijk
13.4 efghijk
13.1 efghijk
12.5 efghijkl
11.9 efghijklm
11.9 efghijklm
11.1 efghijklm
10.9 fghijklm
10.6 fghijklm
10.0 ghijklm
9.0 hijklm
6.4 ijklm
3.9 jklm
3.6 jklm
3.0 jklm
1.6 klm
0.9 Im
0.8 Im
0.4 m
0.1 m
Vigor
1-9
2.1
2.1
2.7
3.3
5.3
3.8
4.5
4.3
4.6
4.7
4.3
5.0
5.3
4.5
5.5
4.5
3.2
4.8
3.7
4.0
4.6
5.4
4.6
5.2
3.9
4.2
4.0
5.7
5.0
5.3
3.8
3.8
3.8
1.5
1.5
8.0
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-32
-------
Appendix A
Table 16. Average plant height of grasses in Stucky Ridge
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus wawawiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis giganteus
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis giganteus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis giganteus
Pascopyrum smithii
Deschampsia cespitosa
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis giganteus
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081621
9081633
9081624
Pryor
Secar
San Luis
9081635
9081625
9081619
Trailhead
Rimrock
Revenue
9081322
Washoe
9076276
Nezpar
Goldar
9081636
Magnar
Sherman
Rosana
Rodan
9076266
9081968
9076290
9081628
9081629
01-13-1
Nortran
9016273
13970176
1858
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
plots (measured 8/30/05).
Height
(cm)
87.5
76.3
59.0
58.0
47.0
46.5
46.3
45.6
44.0
43.8
42.9
39.5
36.9
36.9
36.1
35.0
33.4
33.1
31.5
30.9
30.4
28.6
27.5
26.3
24.7
22.8
20.8
15.9
6.4
5.7
5.4
4.5
4.1
1.1
0.9
0.0
a*
a
b
be
bed
bcde
bcde
bcdef
bcdef
bcdef
cdefg
defg
defgh
defgh
defgh
defgh
defgh
defgh
efgh
fghi
fghi
ghi
ghi
ghi
hi
hi
hij
ijk
jkl
jkl
kl
kl
kl
kl
kl
I
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-33
-------
Appendix A
Table 17. Biomass production of grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials (clipped 8/30/05).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus tracycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis giganteus
Agrostis giganteus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis giganteus
Elymus wawawiensis
Poa sp.
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia cespitosa
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Elymus tachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Agrostis giganteus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia cespitosa
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081621
9081633
Trailhead
9076276
9081619
9081624
Pryor
9076266
Secar
9081635
Nezpar
9076290
9081968
Rosana
Magnar
San Luis
Revenue
9081625
Washoe
Rimrock
9081636
Goldar
9081322
Rodan
Sherman
Streaker
9081628
9081629
9016273
1858
13970176
01-13-1
Greening
Nortran
Canbar
Biomass
kg/ha
8,211
4,100
2,506
2,222
2,189
2,039
1,844
1,578
1,367
1,289
906
872
844
800
650
639
622
578
428
361
339
317
272
233
189
189
122
61
61
51
28
28
23
0
0
0
a*
b
c
cd
cd
cde
cdef
cdefg
cdefgh
cdefg h
defgh
defgh
defgh
defgh
efgh
efgh
efgh
fgh
fgh
gh
gh
gh
gh
gh
gh
gh
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
h
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-34
-------
Appendix A
Seed Mixture Trial
The forbs included in the seed mixtures (see Planting Design section) did not emerge;
therefore, densities reflect only emergent grass seedlings (tables 5, 6, 7, and 8). During
the establishment year, the Developed Waste Management Area (WMA) mix had the
greatest seedling density with 10.5 seedlings/ft2 (table18). The Experimental WMA mix
had the lowest density with 6.3 seedlings/ft2. The two Developed mixtures averaged 9.9
seedlings/ft2. The two Experimental mixtures averaged 6.3 seedlings/ft2. There were
no significant differences among the mixtures at the P=0.05 level. By the fall of the first
year, the Developed WMA mixture still had the highest density (8.0 seedlings/ft2) and
the Experimental WMA mixture the lowest density (6.9 seedlings/ft2). The two
Developed mixtures averaged 7.7 seedlings/ft2 and the two Experimental mixtures
averaged 6.9 seedlings/ft2. As in June, no significant differences were seen among the
four seed mixtures.
At the start of the second growing season (2004), the two Experimental mixes had
significantly better stands (Upland Exp.—39.4% and Waste Mgmt. Exp.—38.1%) than
did the Developed mixes (Upland Dev.—17.3 and Waste Mgmt. Dev.—15.0%). By fall
of the second year, the stands of all the mixes had increased, but the Experimental
mixes were still significantly better than the Developed mixes. Biomass production of
the Experimental mixes was also significantly better than that of the Developed mixes.
During the third year (2005), the percentage stands of all mixes increased only slightly,
but the biomass production was much higher. The Experimental mixes were dominated
by 9081620 slender wheatgrass, while the Developed mixes were dominated by
Revenue slender wheatgrass and Critana thickspike wheatgrass. The Waste
Management Experimental mix topped all mixes with 8,933 kg/ha of oven-dry biomass
production.
A-35
-------
Appendix A
Table 18. Moto-X Replicated Mixture Trial on Stucky Ridge.
Upland Exp.
Upland Dev.
Waste Mgmt Area
Exp
Waste Mgmt Area
Dev
Density
6/03
2
6 A
.*t
n °
y.o
6.3
10.5
Density
8/03
no/ff
7.4
7.0
6.9
8.0
Stand
6/04
%
39.4
17.3
38.1
15.0
Stand
9/04
%
45.9
24.4
46.9
23.8
Stand
8/05
%
60.6
25.9
59.7
28.4
Height
2004
cm
45.8
14.8
44.8
19.8
Height
2005
cm
78.8
47.2
82.5
56.6
Biomass
2004
kg/ha
van
/ 9U
°1 ^
Z. I O
1206
306
Biomass
2005
kg/ha
5939
2011
8933
4494
no/ft
A-36
-------
Appendix A
Forb/Subshrub Trial
Ten of the 16 trial entries had no emergence and 15 of the 16 entries had <0.50
seedlings/ft2 the seedling year (table 19). The subshrub, winterfat (Krascheninnikovia
lanata) Open Range Germplasm, was the only entry that demonstrated significant
emergence with 9.5 seedlings/ft2. The lack of forb emergence may be due to the
May 13 planting date. The forb species in the study may have some physiological (after
ripening) or physical (hard seed coat) seed dormancy. To overcome seed dormancy,
many forb seeds generally require several weeks (8 to 14 weeks) of cold chilling. As
with the grass species, some additional germination and emergence was expected in
the spring of 2004, but this did not happen with the forb species. Some species such as
thickstem aster (Symphyotrichum chilense) and buckwheat (Eriogonum sp.) do better
with shallow seeding. By the second growing season, only plants of Open Range
winterfat and 9081632 silverleaf phacelia remained alive. There was no sign of new
emergence of any of the accessions/species in the spring of 2004. The surviving,
mature plants of Open Range Germplasm winterfat performed well, with some plants
flowering and setting seed. After the third growing season (2005), plants of Open
Range winterfat, 9081632 silverleaf phacelia, Old Works fuzzytongue penstemon,
Richfield firecracker penstemon, and Northern Cold Desert winterfat were found to be
surviving. New plants of firecracker penstemon and fuzzytongue penstemon had
germinated two years after being planted. The surviving plants of Open Range winterfat
and 9081632 silverleaf phacelia exhibited good vigor, growth, and seed production.
Table 19. Seedling density (2003), percentage stand (2004), and total plant density (2005) of forb and
subshrub accessions in the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting (evaluated 6/24/03,
8/25/03, 6/30/04, 9/22/04, and 8/30/05).
Genus & Species
Krascheninnikovia lanata
Phacelia hastata
Krascheninnikovia lanata
Penstemon strictus
Erigonum umbellatum
Penstemon venustus
Erigonum umbellatum
Penstemon eatonii
Erigonum ovalifolium
Penstemon eriantherus
Phacelia hastate
Potentilla gracilis
Potentilla hippiana
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Variety/Accession
Open Range Germplasm
9081 632
Northern Cold Desert Germ.
'Bandera'
9082271
Clearwater Selected
9082273
Richfield Select
9082098
Old Works Germplasm
9082275
9081 679
9076274
9078675
9081 678
9082274
Species
ID
5
10
4
8
2
9
3
7
1
6
11
12
13
14
15
16
2003 Density/ft2
6/24 8/25
9.47 a*
0.28 b
0.19 b
0.19 b
0.06 b
0.03 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
6.75 a*
0.22 b
0.16 b
0.03 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
2005 Avg. Plants/
2004 Stand Plot
6/30 9/22 8/30
5.5 a*
0.5 b
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
4.5 a*
0.5 b
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
20.00
6.00
0.25
0
0
0
0
0.75
0
15.00
0
0
0
0
0
0
' Means followed by the same letter are similar at the 0.05 level of significance using the LSD Mean Comparison method.
A-37
-------
Appendix A
Tissue Analysis
Following the Fall 2004 and Fall 2005 evaluation for cover and vigor, each individual
plot was sampled for biomass production. These clippings from all four replications,
along with additional clipping of low producing plots, made up the 10 gram or greater of
oven-dry samples that were submitted for tissue analysis. Samples were submitted to
Energy Laboratories, Inc. in Billings, Montana, for determination of heavy-metal
concentrations in and on sampled plant materials from the Stucky Ridge Moto-X site.
Metal loads (concentration in and on the plant tissue) can be compared to maximum
tolerable levels of dietary minerals for domestic animals (National Reseach Council
1980). The dietary level of cadmium for domesticated animals is based on human food
residue considerations (NRC, 1980), and the need to avoid increases of cadmium in the
food supply of the United States. Higher residue levels (>0.50 mg/kg) for a short period
of time would not be expected to be harmful to animal health nor to human food use,
particularly if the animals were slaughtered at a young age. Based on a review of the
scientific literature, ranges of elemental levels for mature leaf tissue have been
presented by Kabata-Pendias and Pendias (1992). The authors provide elemental
levels for generalized plant species into ranges representing deficient, sufficient, or
normal, and excessive or toxic (table 20).
All tissue samples are unreplicated composites of samples from random plants in all
four replications of the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Trial. Metal loads in the
sampled tissue were generally below toxic levels.
Arsenic (As)—Arsenic was detected in 19 of the 39 samples in 2004 and in 32 of
the 40 samples in 2005 with levels ranging from 5 mg/kg to 35 mg/kg. This is below the
tolerable levels for domestic livestock (50 mg/kg) and wildlife (50 mg/kg). However, the
detected levels rank in the 'Excessive or Toxic' level in plants.
Cadmium (Cd)—This element was detected in only one sample (Rimrock Indian
ricegrass) in 2004 and in 2005 it was detected in 5 samples (3 of which were in Indian
ricegrasses). The detected level (1-2 mg/kg) are at the tolerable level for domestic
livestock (0.5 mg/kg) and wildlife (2 mg/kg).
Copper (Cu)—Copper detected in all tissue samples ranging from 14 mg/kg to
307 mg/kg. Only three samples (2004) and 5 samples (2005) exceeded the tolerable
level for domestic livestock (100 mg/kg), but 15 samples (2004) and 19 samples
(2005) exceeded the tolerable level for wildlife (55 mg/kg). Since this is a copper
smelting impacted area, high levels of copper are to be expected.
Lead (Pb)—Lead was detected in a sample of ten-petal blazing star (Mentselia
decapetala) only (2004), at a level of 9 mg/kg, well below the tolerable level for
domestic livestock and wildlife. In 2005 lead was detected in only four samples and at
very low levels.
Zinc (Zn)—Zinc was detected in all samples, ranging from 14 mg/kg to
175 mg/kg well below the tolerable level for domestic livestock (500 mg/kg) and wildlife
(300 mg/kg).
Worth noting was the fact that heavy metal concentrations were highest in/on alpine
blue grass, silverleaf phacelia, winterfat and fuzzytongue pemstemon. This is likely due
to the excess dust particles on the low profile plants and ones with leaf pubescence.
A-38
-------
Appendix A
Table 20. Heavy metal concentrations of clipped biomass samples from the Stucky Ridge Comparative
Lot#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
1
2
3
4
5
6
10
Evaluation Trials (sampled 9/22/04, analyzed 1 1/10/04, sampled 8/29/05, analyzed 10/10/05).
Species
ACHY 9081 628
ACHY 9081 629
ACHY Rimrock
ACHY Nezpar
AGGI 9076276
AGGI9081619
AGGI 9076266
AGGI Streaker
DECE 9076290
DECE 13970176
DECE Nortran
ELTR 9081 620
ELTR 9081 621
ELTR Pryor
ELTR Revenue
ELTR San Luis
LECI 9081 624
LECI 9081 625
LECI Washoe
LECI Magnar
LECI Trailhead
PASM 9081 968
PASM Rodan
PASM Rosana
POAL 901 6273
POAL01-13-1
POAL Greuning
POAL 1858
POSE 9081 633
POSE Sherman
POSE Canbar
POSP 9081 635
POSP 9081 322
PSSP 9081 636
PSSP Goldar
ELWA Secar
UPEXP
UPDEV
WMAEXP
WMADEV
KRLA Op. Range
PEER Old Works
PHHA 9081 632
Al
mg/kg
2004
331
288
235
276
258
663
548
334
1420
336
242
197
301
280
441
424
463
472
636
441
374
495
210
799
1220
706
1190
442
311
2005
279
420
332
200
382
375
320
2500
405
121
285
283
413
445
193
436
559
366
410
391
315
243
318
1740
695
1410
417
420
no samples
364
441
676
654
396
392
268
374
270
1173.3
Maximum Tolerable Levels for
Domestic livestock1.
Wildlife2.
Metal levels in Plants3.
Deficient
549
346
931
548
635
266
545
421
548
372
1280
3720
As
mg/kg
2004
6
9
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
5
8
8
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
6
7
11
ND
6
7
6
7
8
ND
ND
9
9
11
ND
16
13
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
7.5
2005
8
8
9
ND
6
ND
6
35
6
6
5
ND
8
7
6
5
9
ND
8
8
5
6
9
21
17
20
ND
12
14
9
20
12
7
ND
12
ND
9
ND
14
42
50
50
Cd
mg/kg
2004
ND
ND
5
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2005
2
2
1
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
1
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
1
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
0.5
2
Cu
mg/kg
2004
39
41
17
16
46
100
74
48
57
29
26
38
25
48
45
62
72
47
113
35
45
52
29
50
78
40
33
49
36
46
83
76
81
34
51
31
35
26
108.3
2005
34
35
35
21
62
62
39
243
45
14
47
41
62
65
27
73
76
47
63
51
41
29
47
120
80
93
52
52
59
62
112
68
59
43
69
50
66
44
65
307
100
55
2 to 5
Pb
mg/kg
2004
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2005
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
13
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
8
ND
9
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
15
30
40
Zn
mg/kg
2004
123
111
68
51
54
51
100
63
87
67
14
21
37
50
40
111
172
175
84
85
86
56
61
45
49
36
62
35
94
38
57
81
77
68
22
73
27
67
82
2005
88
73
38
31
41
64
49
78
52
44
16
22
35
47
33
55
124
106
69
93
64
39
52
64
50
156
44
106
44
64
84
58
65
31
40
25
44
47
31
91
500
300
A-39
-------
Appendix A
Sufficient or Normal
Excessive or Toxic
1. NRC 1980,2. Ford, 1996,
1 to 1 .7
5 to 20
0.05 to 0.2
5 to 30
3. Kabata-Pendias and Pendias 1992.
5 to 30
20 to 1 00
5 to 10
30 to 300
27 to 1 50
100 to 400
A-40
-------
Appendix A
CONCLUSION
Not all of the potential germinable seeds germinated the first year (2003). The record
high temperatures and low precipitation in July and August, along with the late spring
planting date (May 13), are considered to be the primary factors affecting the
incomplete germination and emergence during the 2003 growing season. There was a
significant amount of new grass seedling emergence detected during the June 30,
2004, evaluation, particularly in the Indian ricegrass, western wheatgrass, big
bluegrass, and basin wildrye plots and some new germination of forbs in 2005.
In the single-species plots, the 'local source' plants that exhibited superior performance
include 9081620 and 9081621 slender wheatgrass, 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081968
western wheatgrass, 9081624 and Washoe Germplasm basin wildrye, 9081628 Indian
ricegrass, 9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass, and 9081635 bluegrass. The superior
indigenous plant material is being further increased for potential release to the
commercial seed industry. Worth noting was the performance of some of the released
cultivars such as Pryor and Revenue slender wheatgrass, Rosana western wheatgrass,
Rimrock Indian ricegrass, Trailhead basin wildrye, Secar Snake River wheatgrass, and
Goldar bluebunch wheatgrass.
The forb/subshrub trial had poor emergence and consequently poor seedling densities
with the exception of Open Range Germplasm winterfat. The low densities were most
likely the result of the late spring planting that resulted in an insufficient period of cold-
moist stratification. An additional problem may have been sowing small-sized seed too
deeply. There was also heavy surface erosion on this portion of the trial site.
In the Seed Mixture Trials, the 'Experimental' mixes that contained native 'local source'
were far superior to the 'Developed' mixes that consisted of native 'nonlocal source'
(Upland mix) and introduced cultivars (Waste Management Areas). However, it was
estimated that the majority of plants in the Experimental mixtures, both Upland and
Waste Management Areas, were 9081620 slender wheatgrass, which was the best
overall performer on this particular site.
The tissue analyses show that the heavy metal concentrations in and on the plant tissue
sampled from the Stucky Ridge plots were generally within the tolerable limits for both
domestic livestock and wildlife.
The overall performance on the Stucky Ridge plots was quite variable, with strips
running north and south that had poorer plant vigor and biomass production. The Pryor
slender wheatgrass strips between replications (running east and west) exhibited waves
of good and poor establishment and performance. Soil samples (0-6 in.) were taken
under four plant stands of slender wheatgrass ranging from excellent to very poor in
hopes of explaining this variability. It was thought that the incorporation of the
amendments may have created strips with varying pH. Soil analysis for pH indicated no
difference in pH (all 6.8 to 7.3) under the varying stand of slender wheatgrass.
Therefore, this variability is still unexplained.
A-41
-------
Appendix A
REFERENCES
ARCO. 2002, May. Remedial action work plan/final design report, 2002 Stucky Ridge
RA (Portions of Stucky Ridge Area No. 4 RAWP) Uplands Revegetation.
Bahr, Autumn. 2003, February 18. Jordan contracting site report. Electronic (e-mail)
communication.
Baker, A.J.M. 1987. Metal tolerance. In: New Phytologist. (1987), 106 (Suppl.),
p. 93-111.
EPA. 1995a. Draft Statement of Work for the ARWW OU Feasibility Study.
Ford, Karl L. Risk management criteria for metals at BLM mining sites. U.S.
Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Technical Note 390
rev., December 1996.
Kabata-Pendias, A. and H. Pendias. 1992. Trace elements in soils and plants. CRC
Press, Boca Raton, FL 365 pp.
Marty, Leslie J. 2000, July. Development of acid/heavy metal-tolerant cultivars project
final report-July 1998 to July 2000. Pp 1-9.
Marty, Leslie J. 2001, October. Development of acid/heavy metal-tolerant cultivars
project bi-annual report-April 1, 2001, to September 30, 2001. Pp Appendix A.
National Weather Service. 2003. Missoula Weather Forecast Office. [Online].
Available: http//www.wrh.noaa.gov/Missoula. [accessed November 2003].
National Research Council. 1980. Mineral tolerance of domestic animals. National
Research Council, National Academy of Sciences, Washington D.C. 577 pp.
Reclamation Research Unit (RRU). 1993, October. Anaconda revegetation treatability
studies, phase I: literature review, reclamation assessments, and demonstration
site selection. Document No.: ASSS-ARTS-I-FR-R1-102293.
A-42
-------
Appendix A
IV. SEED PRODUCTION
A-43
-------
Appendix A
SEED PRODUCTION
All seed increase activities take place at the USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center near
Bridger, Montana. The 140-acre research farm is set up for irrigated seed production of
conservation plants for use in Montana and Wyoming. Breeders and Foundation seed
of released plant materials are produced at the Bridger PMC for distribution to
commercial seed growers through the Foundation Seed programs at Montana State
University-Bozeman and the University of Wyoming-Laramie. The PMC is set up to
utilize both sprinkler and furrow irrigation. Seed increase blocks or fields are
established by direct seeding, transplanting of container-grown stock, and
transplanting/establishment of seed production orchards (woody plant material).
Special consideration must be given to properly isolate DATC project material from
other releases or test material of the same species. Cross-pollinated species are
isolated at least 900 feet apart, while self-fertilized species are isolated at least 100 feet
apart.
Cultural Practices
Seeding
All seeding is done with a two-row, double-disk planter equipped with depth bands so as
to get a uniform 0.25- to 0.5-inch seeding depth. Seed is planted in rows spaced 3 feet
apart to accommodate the gated pipe irrigation water delivery system. Depending on
the species, planting is done either as a dormant-fall planting (Oct. 15 to Dec. 15) or as
an early spring planting (April 1 to May 15). Seed that have a dormancy or after-
ripening problem are dormant-fall seeded to get natural stratification.
Transplanting
For small lots of seed that need seed increase, the limited seed supply is planted into
Cone-tainers™ and transplanted into fields following 6 months of growth under
greenhouse conditions. A mechanical transplanter is used, resulting in uniform 14"
within-row spacing. This method has been used on alpine bluegrass (Poa alpina),
western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria
spicata), fuzzy-tongue penstemon (Penstemon eriantherus), silverleaf phacelia
(Phacelia hastata), wooly cinquefoil (Potentilla hippiana), and tufted hairgrass
(Deschampsla cespltosa).
Woody Transplants
All woody material is container grown and transplanted as 2-0 stock into seed
production orchards. In some cases weed-barrier is used to reduce weed
establishment within the rows, while in others cultivation is used to keep between row
spaced weed-free. Most shrubs will not initiate seed production until the plants are 5-6
years old.
A-44
-------
Appendix A
Production Fields
The following table (table 1) shows the species that are presently being grown for seed
production. Some of the woody increase orchards have yet to reach the maturity level
necessary for seed production, but seed will be harvested once these stands are
productive and seed made available to other researchers and potentially released to the
commercial plant production industry.
Weed Control
Mechanical weed control, either by cultivation or hand roguing, is the preferred method,
but chemical weed control is often necessary. With everything established in rows,
between-row cultivation can be easily accomplished with standard cultivators. All
chemical applications need to be done prior to flowering or late in the season when
plants are going dormant.
Table 1. Seed production fields established at the Bridger PMC for the PAIR project.
Common Name
Accession
Field
Release No.
Field
size
Established
woolly cinquefoil
fuzzytongue penstemon
silverleaf phacelia
basin wildrye
basin wildrye
bluebunch wheatgrass
slender wheatgrass
big bluegrass
Indian ricegrass
western wheatgrass
common snowberry
creeping juniper
Wood's rose
western snowberry
silver buffaloberry
9076274
9081631
9081632
9081627
9081627
9081636
9081620
9081633
9081628
9081968
9078388
9081623
9081638
9081639
9081334
4
Old Works 20
20
Washoe 20
Washoe 22
20
20
20
22
22
Prospectors 1 9
23
30
30
30
.30
.35
.80
.21
.30
.35
.24
.14
.10
.44
.60
.40
.40
.60
spring 20061
11 /042
11 /042
4/052
4/992
4/052
4/052
4/052
4/992
6/051
5/003
5/02, 5/033
7/993
5/003
5/003
1-transplanted cone-tainers
2-established from seed
3-transplanted 2-0 stock
Fertilization
No fertilizers are added to field increase plots until the fall of the first growing season,
and then every fall for the life of the stand. A standard mix of 80 Ib N/acre and 40 Ib
P205/acre is used on most species. Fall applications are usually applied in granular
form from September 15 to October 15.
A-45
-------
Appendix A
Irrigation
The Bridger area receives an average of only 11.3" of annual precipitation, making it
necessary to provide supplemental water to improve seed production. Hand-moved
sprinklers are available for plant establishment if natural precipitation is inadequate.
Once established, furrow irrigation is generally used. Critical irrigation times are early
summer prior to flowering, after pollination as seeds are maturing, and during the fall
when seedhead primordia are developing for the following year.
Seed Harvest
Depending on the species, size of stand, and amount of seed, harvesting may be
accomplished in a variety of ways. Seed can be hand stripped, direct combined,
swathed/combined, or head harvested/dried/combined. Seed is harvested at a 20-30%
moisture level and dried to <12% for cleaning and storage. Seed that is officially
released and made available to commercial growers must meet standards established
by the Montana Seed Growers Association and be analyzed for purity and germination
by the Montana Seed Testing Laboratory at Montana State University.
Post-harvest Maintenance
Following harvest, seed production stands are mowed to removed excess biomass and
stimulate tillering. The stands are also cultivated prior to fall fertilization and irrigation.
Seed Cleaning
A variety of standard seed cleaning equipment is utilized to clean the DATR seed, both
wildland collections and field seed increase. A hammermill is used to further thresh
seed or remove appendages. Three different sizes of screen-fanning mills are available
for cleaning seed based on size, shape, and weight. An indent cylinder is used to
remove round weed seed from elongated grass seed and a small gravity table is used
to make separations based on specific gravity.
Seed Storage
All cleaned seed are stored in cloth-mesh bags on shelves in the basement of the office
building at the Bridger PMC. The ambient conditions at Bridger are quite good for seed
storage, as there is consistently low relative humidity and uniform cool temperatures in
the basement environment. Under these conditions, most native seeds will remain
viable for up to 10 years.
Seed Accessioning and Inventory
The USDA-NRCS Plant Materials nation-wide network utilizes POMS (Plant Materials
Operation and Management System) for the accessioning, inventory, and distribution of
all lots of seed and plants handled through the Plant Materials network. All seed is
inventoried to the nearest gram (table 2).
A-46
-------
Appendix A
Table 2. Seed on hand of Increase Plant Material for PAIR project.
Genus & Species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis giganteus
Elymus trachycaulus
Juniperus horizontalis
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Penstemon eriantherus
Phacelia hastata
Poa secunda
Potentllla hlpplana
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Rosa woodsii
Shepherdia argentea
Symphorlcarpos albus
Symphorlcarpos occldentalls
Common Name
Indian ricgrass
redtop
slender wheatgrass
creeping juniper
basin wildrye
western wheatgrass
fuzzytongue penstemon
silverleaf phacelia
big bluegrass
woolly cinquefoil
bluebunch wheatgrass
Wood's rose
silver buffaloberry
common snowberry
western snowberry
Accession
9081628
9076276
9081620
9081623
Washoe
9081968
Old Works
9081632
9081633
9076274
9081636
9081638
9081334
Prospectors
9081639
Seed on
Hand
kilograms
4.81
50.03
44.52
0.34
28.84
0.01
2.75
9.96
4.16
4.80
23.71
0.56
0.00
0.47
0.10
A-47
-------
Appendix A
V. RELEASES
Copperhead germplasm slender wheatgrass
A-48
-------
Appendix A
PLANT RELEASES
The seed and plants that are available to reclamationists are usually cultivar (cultivated
varieties) releases from universities, USDA Plant Material Centers, USDA Agricultural
Research Service, or private plant breeders. To be released as a cultivar, the
germplasm must be extensively tested, reviewing primary traits through multiple
generations, and field testing to determine range of adaptability. This process takes at
least 10 years with herbaceous plant material and can take 20 or more years for woody
plants. Other sources of native plants are wildland collections and pre-damage plant
salvage.
In recent years, the demand for native, indigenous plant material has resulted in the
development of an alternate, quicker mechanism for the release of plant materials
known as Pre-Varietal Release. Through this process plant propagules can be released
to the commercial seed and nursery industries in a more timely manner, but at the
expense of extensive field testing. Germplasm is still managed through the Certified
seed agencies, maintaining the same quality, purity, and germination standards of
Cultivar releases. There are three categories of Pre-Varietal releases:
Source-Identified—With this classification, a person can locate and collect seed from a
specific native site and have the seed certified by source only. A representative from a
seed certification agency must inspect the collection site prior to harvest, documenting
the identity of the species, elevation, latitude/longitude, and associated species. The
collector can certify the seed as being from a particular source and of a standard
quality, and selling the seed directly to a customer. The collector can also take that
seed and establish seed production fields, raising up to two generations past the
original collection. This product must be included in a seed certification program to be
able to certify the seed as 'Source Identified' germplasm. Through this process, seed
can be certified the year of collection or in 2 years when the seed increase fields begin
to produce.
Selected—This category is for plant breeders who assemble and evaluate multiple
collections of a species, making a selection of the superior accession, or bulk or cross-
pollinate the superior accessions. This release process can take as few as 5 years, but
can claim only that one accession or bulk of accessions has been found to be superior
for the conditions under which it was tested. No field testing or the testing of progeny is
required.
Tested—If the progeny of a superior germplasm is tested to make sure that the desired
traits continue to manifest themselves in subsequent generations, the germplasm
qualifies to be released as a Tested germplasm. This process can take 6-8 years in
herbaceous plant material and considerably longer with woody plants. The only
difference between Tested and Cultivar releases is the extensive field testing of a
Cultivar.
A-49
-------
Appendix A
The Pre-Varietal release mechanism has been used extensively on native plant
materials that are not readily available on the commercial market, either from seed
growers, nurseries, or wildland collectors. Through this process native plant material
can be placed into the commercial seed and nursery industry sooner, but with limited
information on range of adaptation, ease of establishment in various climate and
edaphic conditions, and longevity.
DATR Project Releases
The Conservation Districts of Montana and Wyoming own the land and facilities at the
Bridger Plant Materials Center and lease to the USDA-Natural Resource Conservation
Service. The USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center has been in operation since 1959
and has established a cooperative relationship with the Agricultural Experiment Station
network of Montana State University-Bozeman (MSU) and the University of Wyoming-
Laramie (U of W). The Plant Materials Center has experience in the release of
conservation plants, both introduced and native, in cooperation with MSU and U of W.
Breeders and Foundation seed is produced at the Bridger PMC, making Foundation
seed available to the commercial seed industry for the production of Certified seed. In
the case of Pre-Varietal releases, the Bridger PMC produces d (Generation 1) seed for
distribution to growers who will produce 62 and Gs under the Certified Seed Program.
Once a release is made, the releasing agency is responsible for maintaining a supply of
d (Pre-Varietal release) or Foundation (Cultivar release) seed for as long as
seed/plants of the release are in demand.
The DATR project has identified numerous plants (grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees)
that exhibit tolerance of acidic and metaliferous soil conditions and have the potential for
use by reclamationists in restoration efforts of severely impacted sites. Thus far the
DATRproject has been instrumental in the release of germplasm of three plants;
Washoe Selected germplasm basin wildrye (Leymus cinereus)
Old Works Source Identified germplasm fuzzy-tongue penstemon (Penstemon
erlantherus)
Prospectors Selected germplasm common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)
Information brochures have been published on these three releases and are distributed
to potential seed growers and potential seed-purchasing customers, d (Foundation
quality) seed of Washoe basin wildrye has been distributed to two commercial seed
growers in Montana, and seed of Old Works fuzzy-tongue penstemon has been
distributed to one grower in Washington and one grower in Idaho. No growers have yet
shown interest in the production of Prospectors common snowberry.
During the winter of 2006 Copperhead Selected class germplasm slender wheatgrass
(9081620) will be submitted for release consideration to the Variety Release committee
at Montana State University and the Pure Seed Committee at the University of
Wyoming. This accession of slender wheatgrass has performed exceptionally well on
A-50
-------
Appendix A
the amended Stucky Ridge Trial site. If the release is successful d seed will be
available to commercial growers in the spring of 2006.
The DATR Project has established seed increase fields of all plant species that have
exhibited superior establishment and performance in field test plantings in the
Anaconda vicinity on smelter and mining-impacted sites. The USDA-NRCS Plant
Materials Center, in cooperation with the Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District, plans
to continue releasing superior plant materials that have exhibited tolerance of
acid/heavy metal-contaminated sites. Some of the potential releases are as follows:
9081620 slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus)
9081968 western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii)
9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata)
9081633 big bluegrass (Poa secunda)
9081628 Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymnoides)
9081619 redtop (Agrostis gigantea)
9081632 silverleaf phacelia (Phacelia hastata)
9076274 wooly conquifoil (Potentilla hippiana)
9078675 stiffstem aster (Symphyotrichum chilensis)
9081334 silver buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea)
9081638 Woods rose (Rosa woodsii)
9081623 horizontal juniper (Juniperus horizontalis).
Plant materials that are being considered for release in FY2007 are 9081632 silverleaf
phacelia and 9081633 big bluegrass. Other releases within the next three years include
9081968 western wheatgrass, 9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass, and 9081638 Woods
rose.
A-51
-------
Appendix B
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Releases (DATR)
2006 Activities
A Report to
Montana Natural Resource Damages Program
By Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District
in cooperation with the
USDA-NRCS Bridger Plant Materials Center
B- 1
-------
Appendix B
I. INTRODUCTION
B-2
-------
Appendix B
Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant Releases (DATR)
2006 Activities
Project History
To address this need for adapted native plants, the Development of Acid/Heavy Metal-
Tolerant Plants (DATC), now called the Development of Acid/Heavy Metal Tolerant
Releases (DATR), project was initiated in 1995. The DATC (DATR) project was initially
funded by a Montana Department of Natural Resources-Reclamation and Development
Grant awarded to the Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District (DLVCD), with research
conducted by Matt Marsh. The DLVCD worked in cooperation with the USDA-NRCS
Bridger Plant Materials Center. The national network of 26 Plant Materials Centers is
the primary source of native plants developed specifically for reclamation and
conservation use. The Bridger PMC, in south-central Montana, is a 140-acre research
facility dedicated to the selection and release of native plant materials, primarily for use
in Montana and Wyoming. The original DNRC grant expired at the end of 1996 and this
project did not receive funding until June 1998, at which time carry-over money for the
1997-98 grant period was made available to this project, as well as some financial
support from Atlantic Richfield Co. (ARCO). During 1999 and 2000, the project was
again funded by a DNRC Reclamation and Development grant. Since 2000, the DATC
(DATR) project has been funded by the EPA Mine Waste Technology Program (through
2005) and the Montana Department of Justice-Natural Resource Damage Program
(through 2008). To date, the DATC (DATR) project has involved the seed collection of
145 native grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees from within the Upper Clark Fork River
Basin and abandoned mine sites throughout western Montana. These collections have
been planted at various study sites in comparison with nonlocal native and introduced
plant species. The Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) has provided land access for
seed collection and sites for experimental plots.
The first Initial Evaluation Plantings (lEPs) (single-row plots) were established in 1995
on the flats east of Anaconda (near junction of Highway 1 and 48), on the Opportunity
Ponds (three levels of lime amendment), and adjacent to the Lead Smelter at East
Helena. Collectively these three research sites tested 220 accessions of 95 species of
native and introduced plants. In the spring of 1999, a Comparative Evaluation Planting
(CEP) (single-row plots) was established along Willow Glen Road east of Anaconda
evaluating 84 entries, which included multiple accessions of 6 forbs, 13 grasses, and 6
forb/grass mixes. During the fall/winter of 1999, a greenhouse study at the Bridger
PMC utilized contaminated soil from the Anaconda Flats area. The results of this
replicated, controlled environment study provided enough statistically significant data to
move some individual collections toward official release to the commercial seed
industry. In 2001, CEPs were established with a four-row cone seeder on Stucky Ridge
(upland site) and on the Mill Creek Flats (lowland site) to evaluate eight seed mixtures,
four consisting of native, local-origin species and four consisting of nonlocal-origin
released cultivars. In October 2002, a shrub/tree CEP (Willow Glenn Road Site) was
established to compare native indigenous material with commercially available stock of
the same species, utilizing 2-0 transplants. All plantings prior to 2003 were established
B-3
-------
Appendix B
on unamended sites, receiving deep-plowing treatment only (except Opportunity Pond-
Site 2). In the spring of 2003, another replicated trial was established on Stucky Ridge
(adjacent to the moto-cross site) on a site that had been deep plowed and amended
with lime.
To date, there have been four official germ plasm releases by the DATC (DATR) project:
Washoe Selected Class germplasm of basin wildrye (Leymus cinereus), Old Works
Source Identified Class germplasm of fuzzytongue penstemon (Penstemon
eriantherus), Prospectors Selected Class germplasm of common snowberry
(Symphoricarpos albus), and Copperhead Selected Class germplasm of slender
wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus). Presently there are 15 collections of 9 species (see
Seed Increase section) that have been established in seed increase fields for potential
future release. Two commercial growers in Montana are growing Washoe basin
wildrye, while a grower in Idaho and one in Washington have recently established seed
production fields of Old Works fuzzytongue penstemon.
B-4
-------
Appendix B
II. WOODY EVALUATION
B-5
-------
Appendix B
WOODY COMPARATIVE EVALUATION PLANTING
Introduction
This report summarizes the plant performance of the Woody Comparative Evaluation
Planting (CEP) installed in the fall of 2000 at the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site.
One of the most impacted areas is the ~18 mi2 of uplands within the Anaconda Smelter
Superfund Site. The uplands are commonly derived from the weathering of bedrock
and are typically thin, clay-rich alfisols. Due to the susceptibility of these soils to erosion
by wind and water, the soil surface in many areas has eroded away and the subsoil,
which is now exposed at the surface, continues to erode. Original vegetation in the
uplands consisted primarily of shrub lands with coniferous forests above approximately
5,800 feet (Keammerer, 1995). In an effort to stem the transport of contaminants and
restore these injured areas, state and federal regulatory agencies have developed
several reclamation alternatives, many of which include the planting of shrubs and trees
in the uplands.
The low pH soils at the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site are routinely ameliorated by
incorporating lime; however, nonuniform lime incorporation, as well as the upward
migration of acid-producing compounds, results in pockets of acidity. Additionally, many
steeply sloped areas are not accessible to heavy equipment making them difficult to
amend. Research has demonstrated that metal-tolerant plants can be used to stabilize
and immobilize contaminants in the soil (Smith and Bradshaw, 1972; Bradshaw et al.,
1978). Metals are absorbed and accumulated by roots, adsorbed onto roots, or
precipitated within the rhizosphere, thereby trapping contaminants in the soil and
breaking the soil-plant-animal cycle.
Numerous demonstration projects over the last 50 years at the Anaconda Smelter
Superfund Site have tested the performance of several woody plant species in diverse
edaphic conditions (Dutton, 1992; Eliason, 1959; Gordon, 1984; Reclamation Research
Unit and Schafer and Associates, 1993; Reclamation Research Unit, 1997). This study
builds on previous research findings by testing accessions (ecotypes) of woody plant
species that have shown adaptations to low pH and heavy-metal contaminated soils.
The objective of the study is to identify acid/heavy-metal-tolerant native plant ecotypes
that provide erosion control and wildlife habitat. The Development of Acid/Heavy-Metal-
Tolerant Cultivars Project's (currently DATR) goal is to release these superior ecotypes
to the commercial market and thereby provide a greater array of plant materials for the
reclamation industry.
Study entries include "local" germplasm originated from seed collected on nearby mine-
affected soils in Deer Lodge County, Montana, as well as "nonlocal" germplasm
originated from seed collected on non-impacted lands in various counties of Montana,
Colorado, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Seedlings of 19 accessions of 7 woody
species including Pinus contorta lodgepole pine, Pinus ponderosa ponderosa pine,
Shepherdia argentea silver buffaloberry, Rosa woodsii Woods' rose, Symphoricarpos
albus common snowberry, Symphoricarpos occidentalis western snowberry, and Ribes
B-6
-------
Appendix B
cereum wax currant were transplanted into a common garden in a randomized complete
block design.
Study Site
The 0.4-acre study site, located ~4 miles southeast of Anaconda, Montana, has been
impacted by emission fallout from the Upper and Lower Works as well as the Washoe
smelter. The Upper and Lower Works smelters operated from 1884 to 1902 at which
point the Washoe smelter took over smelting operations until 1980. The study site lies
~200 yards east of Mill Creek at an elevation of 5,140 ft in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone
4a. The soils at the site are in the Haploboroll's Family and consist of deep, well-
drained soils formed in mixed alluvium composed of granitic, meta-sedimentary, and
volcanic rocks. The alluvium is derived from the Mill Creek drainage. Cobbles and
stones commonly occur on the soil surface. In 1999, the site was plowed to a depth of
6 inches, rototilled, and packed. Laboratory analysis of four (0- to 6-inch) composite soil
samples taken after tilling to 6 inches indicated an average pH of 4.53. Average
arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc concentrations in the four soil samples were
423 mg/kg, 6 mg/kg, 510 mg/kg, 233 mg/kg, and 308 mg/kg, respectively (table 1).
Table 1. Acid extractable heavy-metal levels (EPA method 3050) and pH of 0- to 6-inch
composite samples.
Sample No.
AT. 0-6" NE
AT. 0-6" NW
AT. 0-6" SE
AT. 0-6" SW
H
Phytotoxic
Criteria1
PH
s.u.
4.0
4.9
4.6
4.6
4.53
<5.0
As
mg/kg
610
360
530
190
422.5
136-315
Cd
mg/kg
7
5
5
7
6
5.1-20
Cu
mg/kg
620
340
340
740
510
236-750
Pb
mg/kg
320
120
150
340
232.5
94-250
Zn
mg/kg
370
222
200
440
308
1 96-240
t EPA phytotoxicity standards (COM Federal 1997).
Methods and Materials
The study tested 19 accessions consisting of two or three accessions of each of the
seven shrub/tree species (table 2). The 1-0 and 2-0 (6- to 12-inch) seedlings were
transplanted in a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated 20 times on
October 18, 2000. An individual plant of each accession is represented in each
replication. The seedlings are spaced 4.5 feet apart within rows and 9 feet apart
between rows. The plot receives no supplemental irrigation. The spring following
planting, Vispore™ (3-ft x 3-ft) tree mats were installed on all entries to suppress weeds
and retard soil moisture evaporation.
B-7
-------
Appendix B
Table 2. Seed origin and elevation of entries in the Woody Comparative Evaluation
Planting.
Family/Species
Seed Origin
Elevation
Caprifoliaceae:
Symphoricarpos albus (L.) Blake
S. albus (L.) Blake
S. occidentalis Hook.
S. occidentalis Hook
S. occidentalis Hook
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Ravalli Co., MT
Deer Lodge Co., MT
CO Seed Source
Weston Co., WY
6000ft
3500
5559
unknown
5000
Elaeagnaceae:
Shepherdia argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
S. argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
S. argentea (Pursh) Nutt.
Grossulariaceae:
Ribes cereum Doug I.
R. cereum Dougl.
Deer Lodge Co., MT
UT Seed Source
SweetwaterCo., WY
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Chaffee Co., CO
6000
unknown
6000
5700
8000
Pinaceae:
Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. contorta Dougl. ex Loud.
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
P. ponderosa P. & C. Lawson
Rosaceae:
Rosa woods/7
R. woodsii
R. woodsii
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Albany Co., WY
CusterCo., ID
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Lawrence Co., SD
San Juan Co., CO
Deer Lodge Co., MT
Ravalli Co., MT
Pueblo Co., CO
6400
9500
6300
5850
5500
8000
5168
3400
6000
Plant survival, height, and vigor were assessed in 2001 (May 21 and August 14), 2002
(May 20 and August 20), 2003 (May 28 and August 26), 2004 (June 30), 2005 (August
29), and 2006 (August 28). Plant height is measured in centimeters to the top of live
foliage. Vigor is measured on a scale of 1 to 9, with 1 representing excellent vigor and
9 representing plant mortality.
B-8
-------
Appendix B
Results and Discussion
Survival
Overall survival of the entrees in the Woody CEP after 1 year (2001) was local 91.4%
and nonlocal 79.2%) (table 3). The edaphic conditions have taken their toll, as survival
has decreased each subsequent year; 2002—local 84.3% and nonlocal 52.5%, 2003—
local 73.6% and nonlocal 43.8%, 2004—local 70.7% and nonlocal 40%, 2005 local
61.4% and nonlocal 37.5%, 2006-local 58.6% and nonlocal 32.9%. Anaconda's 30-year
average annual precipitation is 13.93 inches. The site was quite dry the year of
establishment (2000—9.57 inches), but the years following were near or above normal;
2001—13.99", 2002—16.23", 2003—15.42", 2004—13.37", 2005—15.75", and 2006—
19.03". Precipitation in Anaconda, therefore, was probably not a major factor in plant
mortality.
In all species except Symphoricarpos occidentalis, the "local" source had equal or better
survival than the "nonlocal" sources. As shown in table 3, the superior accessions
included Pinus ponderosa (Deer Lodge County, MT), P. ponderosa (Lawrence County,
SD), R. cereum (Deer Lodge County, MT), Symphoricarpos albus (Deer Lodge County,
MT), and Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County, MT). Based on survival and
growth, the best overall performing species have been Pinus ponderosa, followed by
Symphoricarpos albus, Shepherdia argentea, Ribes cereum, and Rosa woodsii. All
accessions of Pinus contorta have performed poorly.
Growth
The average growth over the first 4-year period for the local source material was
14.99 cm (5.9 inches), while the nonlocal material averaged 10.33 cm (4.07 inches) of
growth. In 2005, the local material averaged 13.44 cm of growth, while the nonlocal
averaged 8.7 cm. In 2006, the local material averaged 3.59 cm of growth, while the
nonlocal averaged 1.71 cm. Generally, the local source material outgrew the nonlocal
material except for the two snowberry species, Symphoricarpos albus and
Symphoricarpos occidentalis, and the lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta). Some of the
shrubs exhibited leader mortality or cropping by wildlife, which resulted in negative
overall growth. The accessions with the greatest sustained growth were Ribes cereum
(Deer Lodge County), Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County), Symphoricapos
occidentalis (Wyoming source), Rosa woodsii (Deer Lodge County), and
Symphoricarpos albus (Ravalli County).
B-9
-------
Appendix B
Vigor
Live plants were rated on a scale from 1 to 9 (1=highest rating) based on a visual
assessment of their vigor or robustness. Dead plants were entered as missing values.
The vigor rating for local source material was somewhat better than the nonlocal source
material, but not significantly so: 2001—local 3.8 vs. nonlocal 5.4, 2002—local 3.9 vs.
nonlocal 4.8, 2003-local 5.1 vs. non-local 5.9, 2004-local 5.1 vs. non-local 5.9, 2005-
local 5.4 vs. non-local 5.5, and 2006—local 5.4 vs. non-local 5.5. No patterns in
superior vigor seem to exist by species or origin other than the local material has slightly
better vigor rating than the non-local.
The top-ranking accession for vigor was Ribes cereum (Deer Lodge County) followed
by Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County). R. cereum and S. argentea have
consistently out performed the non-local sources since establishment. As in the other
categories, the lodgepole pine Pinus contorta accessions had the poorest overall
performance.
B-10
-------
Appendix B
Table 3. Woody Comparative Evaluation: 2002-2006
Replication
PICO 9078320
PICO m039ID0002
PICO m038WY0002
PIPO 9081318
PIPO m04CO0002
PIPO m020SD9903
RICE 9081 329
RICE m024CO0003
ROWO 9081 638
ROWO m076CO0003
ROWO m07MT0003
SHAR 9081 334
SHAR m022WY0005
SHARm015UT9901
SYAL 9078388
SYAL m045MT003
SYOC 9081 639
SYOCm021WY0004
SYOCm018CO9904
Vigor
2002
5.80
5.00
4.00
2.10
4.20
3.20
4.80
5.40
4.20
7.00
5.00
2.50
6.60
5.80
3.60
3.60
4.60
3.80
4.00
Vigor
2003
5.10
5.00
4.50
3.40
4.80
2.70
2.80
5.10
4.50
7.00
4.00
2.50
5.20
5.00
4.00
3.00
5.20
2.80
4.50
Vigor
2004
6.50
7.00
5.50
5.63
7.29
4.84
3.86
5.90
4.54
8.00
6.00
3.94
6.67
5.50
4.53
4.17
6.85
4.57
4.80
Vigor
2005
7.60
8.00
6.00
5.74
8.00
5.26
3.25
5.38
4.36
0.00
4.00
4.00
7.29
6.00
5.67
4.83
6.50
4.39
5.36
Vigor
2006
7.40
8.00
6.50
5.84
7.90
5.37
3.42
5.13
5.00
0.00
7.00
3.67
6.25
5.50
6.24
4.83
6.00
4.09
5.39
Avg. Ht.
2002
(cm)
10.06
12.83
14.50
24.68
14.29
26.80
25.50
12.31
26.07
9.00
12.00
29.88
5.58
9.20
18.67
18.33
18.06
24.79
16.61
Avg. Ht.
2003
(cm)
10.19
16.33
15.67
27.38
14.74
32.10
47.15
24.00
35.85
5.00
28.50
37.94
7.79
13.25
25.06
30.33
16.09
40.57
22.79
Avg. Ht.
2004
(cm)
11.83
16.00
18.00
25.79
13.65
31.47
52.00
25.60
39.39
4.00
21.67
41.69
12.67
15.00
28.53
33.67
18.62
37.53
23.71
Avg. Ht.
2005
(cm)
14.00
16.50
20.50
31.26
14.13
38.32
78.67
46.88
57.27
0.00
50.50
73.93
20.14
31.50
30.50
40.50
26.50
55.69
35.93
Avg. Ht.
2006
(cm)
17.40
16.00
20.00
32.32
11.90
41.63
93.92
56.75
57.50
0.00
46.00
79.93
33.25
24.00
29.00
45.67
27.25
59.55
36.39
Surv.
2002
%
85
30
20
100
85
100
75
65
75
15
20
80
60
25
90
30
85
90
90
Surv.
2003
%
40
15
15
100
85
100
65
50
65
5
10
80
35
20
85
30
80
75
85
Surv.
2004
%
25
10
5
95
85
95
70
50
65
5
15
80
30
10
95
30
65
70
75
Surv.
2005
%
25
10
10
95
75
95
60
40
55
0
10
75
35
10
90
30
30
65
70
Surv.
2006
%
25
10
10
95
50
95
60
40
50
0
10
75
20
10
85
30
20
55
65
B- 11
-------
Appendix B
Conclusion
Several dead plants were dug up and it was observed that the roots of these plants had
not penetrated the native soil beyond their soil media plug area. It seems probable that
plants whose roots were able to tolerate the low pH and metalliferous surroundings
beyond their plug area flourished, while those with roots sensitive to the edaphic
contaminates declined.
The accessions that have had good survival and are now putting on substantial growth
include:
Pinus ponderosa (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Pinus ponderosa (Lawrence County, SD)
Ribes cereum (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Rosa woodsii (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Shepherdia argentea (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Symphoricarpos albus (Deer Lodge County, MT)
Symphoricarpos occidentalis (Weston County, WY)
Recommendations
There are obvious limitations and apparent weaknesses in this study. Currently, only
one individual plant comprises an experimental unit. This is problematic because high
mortality at the plot resulted in replications lacking an experimental unit, thus generating
missing values. It is suggested that an experimental unit include five to ten individuals
and that the number or replications be decreased. A larger experimental unit would
also allow the harvesting of a few individuals for examination of subterranean growth.
Secondly, the "local" and "nonlocal" seedlings of each species in this study were
assembled from different growers and were not produced using identical cultural
techniques. It is important that accessions of each species are produced under the
same regimes. Thirdly, the current study lacks a control. A control plot located at a
relatively uncontaminated site is needed in order to compare soil effects and the
effectiveness of the treatments. It is believed that the installation of Vispore™ tree mats
was beneficial.
B-12
-------
Appendix B
References
Bradshaw. A.D., M.O. Humphreys, and M.S. Johnson. 1978. The value of heavy metal
tolerance in the revegetation of metalliferous mine wastes, pp. 311-333. Irr.
Environmental Management of Mineral Wastes. G.T. Goodman and M.J.
Chadwick (eds.). Sijthoff and Noordhoff, Alphen aan den Rejn, The Netherlands.
Dutton, B. 1992, August 27. Old Works Revegetation Project, Planting Trials Survival
Analysis. ARCO Report, 11 p. Atlantic Richfield Company, Anaconda, MT.
Eliason, L. 1959, August. Anaconda Mineral Company Memorandum, Tailing Area
Tree Planting Status Report. Montana Historical Archives, Boxes 90 and 91,
Helena, MT
Gordon, R. 1984, December. Container Seedling Plots at Anaconda. Anaconda
Minerals Company Internal Correspondence, MSE Records Library, Butte, MT.
Keammerer, Warren R. 1995, July. U.S. District Court, District of Montana, Helena
Division. State of Montana vs. ARCO No. cv-83-317-HLN-PGH. Expert Report
of Warren Keammerer. July 13, 1995.
Reclamation Research Unit and Schafer and Associates. 1993. Streambank Tailing
and Revegetation Studies, STARS Phase III, Final Report. Montana Department
of Health and Environmental Sciences, Helena, MT.
Reclamation Research Unit. 1997, July. Anaconda Revegetation Treatability Studies,
Phase IV: Monitoring and Evaluation, Volume 1. Montana State University,
Bozeman, MT 59717-0290. Document No.: ASSS-ARTS-IV-FR-073197.
Smith, R.A. and A.D. Bradshaw. 1972. Stabilization of toxic mine wastes by the use of
tolerant plant populations. Trans. Inst. of Mining and Metallurgy 81 :A230-238.
B-13
-------
Appendix B
STUCKY RIDGE MOTO-X SITE
1^'^W^WP?'^!
B- 14
-------
Appendix B
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF GRASSES, FORBS, AND SEED MIXTURES
FROM "LOCAL" VERSUS "NON-LOCAL" ORIGINS
Moto-X—Stucky Ridge
Methods and Materials
Study Site
The study is located on Stucky Ridge, ~2 mi northeast of Anaconda, Montana, in Deer
Lodge County. The legal description and geographic position of the study site are the
SW 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 30, Range 11 West, Township 5 North and North
46°09'097 West 112°54'30". The study plot occupies 1.5 acres in subpolygon OWSR-
013.09, which is part of the Stucky Ridge Remedial Design Unit (RDU) #1 within the
Anaconda Regional Water, Waste, and Soils Operable Unit.
RDU #1 encompasses 242 acres of the ~13,000 acres of upland terrestrial vegetation
contaminated by emission fallout from the Washoe, as well as the Upper and Lower
Works smelters. Concerns identified in the Stucky Ridge RDU include elevated arsenic
concentrations in surface soils, barren or sparsely vegetated areas due to low pH and
elevated contaminant concentrations, and steep slopes with high erosion potentials
(ARCO 2002, May) (table 1). Current and historic use of this area primarily consists of
agricultural grazing, recreation, and open space/wildlife habitat.
The plot site is situated on a stream terrace above Lost Creek at an elevation of
5308 feet and covers most of the relatively flat ground on the east end of Stucky Ridge.
The vegetation, although sparse, includes scattered groves of quaking aspen,
shrublands dominated by Wood's rose, currant species, rubber rabbitbrush, and
horsebrush; and grasslands dominated by redtop and basin wildrye. Annual
precipitation at the site ranges from 10 to 14 inches with most of the precipitation
occurring in the spring. The parent material is alluvium. The soil has a gravelly loam
texture and is well drained. The slope at the plot site averages ~5 to 10 percent.
Table 1. Pre-tillage soils data in the proximity of the plot site (ARCO 2002, May).
Soil Sample Station
94S-SR-71
94S-SR-71
94S-SR-73
94S-SR-73
99-098A
99-098B
99-098C
99-098D
99-098E
99-099A
99-099B
Depth
inches
0-2
2-8
0-2
2-8
0-2
2-6
0-6
6-12
12-18
0-2
2-6
As
mg/kg
—
—
—
—
495.0
163.0
489.0
95.8
Cu
mg/kg
—
—
—
—
1660.0
1320.0
1370.0
1020.0
Zn
mg/kg
—
—
—
—
419.0
276.0
303.0
245.0
Sat. Paste
PH
s.u.
4.70
4.90
4.30
4.60
4.20
7.60
7.80
B- 15
-------
Appendix B
^^ L/^^W
QQ.nQQn
QQ.nQQF
99-1 23A
99-123B
QQ.-IP-JP
QQ.-lp-jn
QQ.-IP-JF
99-1 63A
QQ.-lfi-JR
QQ.-lfi-Jp
QQ-1fi^n
QQ-1fi^P
\J U
fi-19
19-18
0-2
2-6
D-fi
fi.-ip
1P-1R
0-2
P-R
0-fi
fi.-ip
19-1R
656.0
167.0
537.0
OKR n
1530.0
1530.0
2180.0
i4^n n
425.0
332.0
493.0
•SRC; n
7 -in
7 70
4 4D
4 RD
R ^n
4 nn
R ?n
Soil Treatment
The study plot site was ameliorated along with the rest of treatment area (OWSR-
013.09) following the remedial actions specified in the Remedial Action Work Plan/Final
Design Report (ARCO 2002, May). The remedy identified for this treatment area was
soil tilling to 12 inches with the addition of a neutralizing amendment to ameliorate the
low pH soil conditions. Remediation of the area was performed by Jordan Contracting,
Inc. and their subcontractors starting in the fall of 2002. According to the work report
from Jordan Contracting, Inc. (Bahr 2003, February 18) prior to tillage, many of the
erosion rills and gullies were graded using a D8 Dozer and a CAT 330 excavator. The
entire treatment area was pre-tilled by Western Reclamation, Inc. with a Rhome™ disc
to approximately 12 inches in mid-September. Lime kiln dust, procured from
Continental Lime, Inc., was then applied at a rate of ~22.0 tons/acre to neutralize the
soil. Four additional passes were made with the Rhome™ disc to a depth of 12 inches
to incorporate the lime. Lime incorporation was completed on November 14, 2002.
In the spring of 2003, fertilizer (12% N, 16%P205, 30% K20) was applied at a rate of
500 bulk pounds per acre and incorporated to 6 inches using a chisel plow. The tillage
area was drill seeded in early May 2003 at a rate of 25 Ibs/acre with "Revegetation Mix
#1." Table 2 below lists the soil characteristics of pre-tillage soil data points closest to
the study site (northwest portion of treatment area [OWSR-013.09] as stated in the
Remedial Action Work Plan/Final Design Report [ARCO 2002, May]).
Table 2. Post-planting grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trial (0- to 6-inch) composite soil sample
analysis from the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting.
Sample Id.
GR1
GR2
GR3
GR4
Sample Description.
Grass Trial, Rep. 1
Grass Trial, Rep. 2
Grass Trial, Rep. 3
Grass Trial, Rep. 4
pH
s.u.
8.2
8.1
7.9
8.0
As
mg/kg
120
117
132
212
Cd
mg/kg
1
1
1
2
Cu
mg/kg
797
906
833
985
Pb
mg/kg
35
34
43
61
Zn
mg/kg
174
177
195
228
B- 16
-------
Appendix B
GDR1
GDR3
FR1
FR2
FR3
FR4
FD1
FD3
MR1
MR2
MRS
MR4
MDR1
MDR3
Grass Trial, Rep. 1 ,
Duolicate
Grass Trial, Rep. 3,
Alternate
Forb Trial, Rep. 1
Forb Trial, Rep. 2
Forb Trial, Rep. 3
Forb Trial, Rep. 4
Forb Trial, Rep. 1 ,
Duplicate
Forb Trial, Rep. 3,
Duplicate
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 1
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 2
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 3
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 4
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep. 1,
Duplicate
Seed Mix. Trial, Rep 3,
Alternate
7.7
7.7
8.0
7.2
7.7
7.6
8.0
7.9
8.0
7.5
7.7
7.8
7.4
8.1
121
178
115
127
153
127
91
106
39
367
39
257
130
29
1
1
1
2
2
2
NDf
1
1
2
ND
2
1
ND
703
845
774
888
1010
1080
681
828
721
909
706
857
925
525
39
57
38
45
45
40
31
33
6
97
12
91
35
9
153
201
185
182
220
210
170
171
143
226
161
209
165
153
t ND: Not detected at the reporting limit.
Post-Treatment Soil Sampling Methods
Soil sampling of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials was completed on
June 24, 2003, after planting. The soil samples were analyzed for pH (1:1 saturated
paste), and total As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn by Energy Laboratories, Inc. in Billings,
Montana. At the grass trial eight randomly selected treatment blocks in each replication
were subsampled. The eight (0- to 6-inch, 0- to 15-cm) composite subsamples
collected from a replication were combined and mixed to form one representative
sample. Duplicate soil samples were taken in replication 1 and alternate soil samples
were taken in replication 3. In the forb/subshrub trial, four (0- to 6-inch) subsamples
were taken per replication to form one representative sample. Duplicate subsamples
were taken in replications 1 and 3. In the mixture trial, two (0- to 6-inch) subsamples
were taken per replication to form one representative sample. Duplicate subsamples
were taken in replication 1 and alternate subsamples were taken in replication 3.
The arsenic and metal concentrations of the post-planting soil samples were generally
moderate with the exception of copper. Copper concentrations within the three trials
averaged 832 mg/kg and ranged from 525 mg/kg to 1080 mg/kg. The average copper
concentrations in the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials were 845 mg/kg,
877 mg/kg, and 774 mg/kg, respectively. The pH of post-planting soil samples were all
above neutral, averaging 7.8 and ranging from 7.2 to 8.2.
B-17
-------
Appendix B
Planting Design
The study is arranged as three separate trials (grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture)
each in a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated four times. The three trials
are situated adjacent to each other as shown in figure 1. The grass, forb/subshrub, and
seed mixture trials are 0.96 acre, 0.44 acre, and 0.14 acre, respectively, with a total plot
size of 1.52 acres. Between each replication, as well as between trials, an 8-foot strip
of Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' was planted to minimize edge effect. The seed bed was
prepared by DATC Project personnel on April 22, 2003, using a 5-foot box scraper to
level the soil. Rocks greater than 6 inches in diameter within the plot boundary were
hand-picked. After rock removal, another pass was made with the box scraper and
spike-tooth harrow to till out tractor tire compressions.
On May 13, 2003, the seed treatments were planted using a 4-row Kincaid™ cone drill
with 1-ft row spacing and a 0.5-inch planting depth. The seeding rate for the grass and
forb/subshrub trials was 50 Pure Live Seeds (PLS) per linear foot of row. The seeding
rate for the seed mixture trial was based on a total seeding rate of 50 PLS per square
foot. Each component of the mix was calculated as a percentage of the per-square-foot
rate.
The seed mixtures were formulated for two distinct applications. An "Upland" blend was
designed for sloping areas with generally low water infiltration and to provide wildlife
habitat. The "Waste Management Area" (WMA) blend was designed to provide a
vegetative cover for areas in which remedial options appear to be limited and their use
for containment of large volumes of waste appears logical (EPA, 1995a). The seed
mixtures referred to as "Developed" are the seed formulations, utilizing commercially
available cultivars, currently specified for use in the Remedial Action Work Plan/Final
Design Report 2002. The seed mixture previously referred to as Revegetation Mix #1,
planted in the surrounding treatment area, is synonymous with the "Upland Developed"
seed mixture. The seed mixtures referred to as "Experimental" are local ecotypes of the
same species from mine-impacted lands.
Each treatment block is 8 feet (8 rows) by 25 feet. In the grass and forb/subshrub trials,
each treatment block was planted with a single accession. Two exceptions exist due to
seed quantity restraints. In all replications of the grass trial, Pascopyrum smithii
9081968 was drilled in only 6 rows with Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' drilled into the
remaining 2 rows. In all replications of the forb/subshrub trial, Eriogonum ovalifolium
9082098 was drilled into only 4 rows with Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' drilled into the
remaining 4 rows.
As mentioned above, Elymus trachycaulus 'Pryor' was drilled in the border strips and
also broadcast in the unplanted area south of the forb/subshrub trial. Wooden stakes,
spray painted orange and marked with an identification number, were installed in the
northeast corner of each treatment block. Lastly, a single-strand, smooth wire fence
was installed around the perimeter of the plot to designate plot boundaries and restrict
vehicular trespassing. In mid-July and again in mid-September, volunteer Canadian
thistle was spot sprayed initially with a 3% solution of 2-4-D Amine and subsequently
with a 3% solution of Stinger™ (Copyralid) applied with a backpack sprayer.
B-18
-------
Appendix B
4 ACHY Nezpar
24 PASM Rosana
19LECIWashoe
28POAL1858
26POAL01-13-1
21 LECI Trailhead
16 ELTR San Luis
25POAL9016273
11 DECE Nortran
27 POAL Gruening
14ELTRPryor
10 DECE 13970176
3 ACHY Rimrock
12 ELTR 9081 620
30 POSE Sherman
17 LECI 9081 624
36 ELWA Secar
7 AGGI 9076266
22 PASM 9081 968
6 AGGI 9081 61 9
8 AGGI Streaker
13 ELTR 9081 621
29 POSE 9081 633
18 LECI 9081 625
33 POSE 9081 322
15 ELTR Revenue
35 PSSP Goldar
1 ACHY 9081 628
9 DECE 9076290
31 POSE Canbar
34 PSSP 9081 636
32 POSE 9081 635
2 ACHY 9081 629
5 AGGI 9076276
23 PASM Rodan
20 LECI Magnar
4 WMA Dev
1 UP Exp
2 UP Dev
3 WMA Exp
Grass Trial
16 ELTR San Luis
32 POSE 9081 635
22 PASM 9081 968
2 ACHY 9081 629
15 ELTR Revenue
36 ELWA Secar
13 ELTR 9081 621
1 ACHY 9081 628
6 AGGI 9081 61 9
26 POAL 01 -13-1
3 ACHY Rimrock
19 LECI Washoe
12 ELTR 9081 620
27 POAL Gruening
17 LECI 9081 624
5 AGGI 9076276
30 POSE Sherman
10 DECE 13970176
11 DECE Nortran
34 PSSP 9081 636
18 LECI 9081 625
8 AGGI Streaker
33 POSE 9081 322
21 LECI Trailhead
29 POSE 9081 633
9 DECE 9076290
14 ELTR Pryor
23 PASM Rodan
28 POAL 1 858
24 PASM Rosana
31 POSE Canbar
4 ACHY Nezpar
35 PSSP Goldar
20 LECI Magnar
7 AGGI 9076266
25 POAL 901 6273
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
1 UP Exp
4 WMA Dev
30 POSE Sherman
23 PASM Rodan
29 POSE 9081 633
35 PSSP Goldar
32 POSE 9081 635
7 AGGI 9076266
21 LECI Trailhead
5 AGGI 9076276
1 ACHY 9081 628
26 POAL 01 -13-1
3 ACHY Rimrock
27 POAL Gruening
13 ELTR 9081 621
34 PSSP 9081 636
10 DECE 13970176
15 ELTR Revenue
18 LECI 9081625
12 ELTR 9081 620
25 POAL 901 6273
2 ACHY 9081 629
8 AGGI Streaker
16 ELTR San Luis
22 PASM 9081 968
11 DECE Nortran
4 ACHY Nezpar
33 POSE 9081 322
28 POAL 1858
24 PASM Rosana
20 LECI Magnar
36 ELWA Secar
6 AGGI 9081 61 9
31 POSE Canbar
14 ELTR Pryor
17 LECI 9081 624
9 DECE 9076290
19 LECI Washoe
4 WMA Dev
1 UP Exp
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
20 LECI Magnar
36 ELWA Secar
11 DECE Nortran
18 LECI 9081 625
10 DECE 13970176
8 AGGI Streaker
4 ACHY Nezpar
30 POSE Sherman
35 PSSP Goldar
23 PASM Rodan
16 ELTR San Luis
25 POAL 90 16273
29 POSE 9081 633
12 ELTR 9081 620
9 DECE 9076290
27 POAL Gruening
6 AGGI 9081 61 9
5 AGGI 9076276
13 ELTR 9081 621
32 POSE 9081 635
2 ACHY 9081 629
33 POSE 9081 322
26 POAL 01 -13-1
7 AGGI 9076266
15 ELTR Revenue
22 PASM 9081 968
28 POAL 1858
31 POSE Canbar
14 ELTR Pryor
24 PASM Rosana
19 LECI Washoe
34 PSSP 9081 636
17 LECI 9081 624
3 ACHY Rimrock
1 ACHY 9081 628
21 LECI Trailhead
1 UP Exp
4 WMA Dev
3 WMA Exp
2 UP Dev
Rep 1 Rep 2 Rep 3 Rep 4
Rep 1
10PHHA9081632
12POGI9081679
1 EROV 9082098
14SYCH 9078675
16SYCH5255-RS
6 PEER Old Works
4 KRLA NCD
9 PEVE Clearwater
7 PEEA Richfield
11 PHHA9003
SERUM 01 -206-1
15SYCH9081678
8 PEST Bandera
1 3 POHI 9076274
5 KRLA Op. Range
2 ERUM 450
12 POGI 9081 679
9 PEVE Clearwater
5 KRLA Op. Range
4 KRLA NCD
16SYCH5255-RS
13 POHI 9076274
10PHHA 9081 632
15SYCH9081678
11 PHHA9003
8 PEST Bandera
2 ERUM 450
1 EROV 9082098
6 PEER Old Works
3 ERUM 01 -206-1
7 PEEA Richfield
1 4 SYCH 9078675
Rep 2
8 PEST Bandera
5 KRLA Op. Range
4 KRLA NCD
15 SYCH 908 1678
9 PEVE Clearwater
1 EROV 9082098
6 PEER Old Works
7 PEEA Richfield
3 ERUM 01 -206-1
12POGR9081679
11 PHHA9003
10 PHHA 9081 632
2 ERUM 450
13 POHI 9076274
16SYCH5255-RS
14 SYCH 9078675
11 PHHA 9003
10 PHHA 9081 632
5 KRLA Op. Range
13 POHI 9076274
6 PEER Old Works
8 PEST Bandera
15 SYCH 908 1678
7 PEEA Richfield
4 KRLA NCD
12POGR9081679
2 ERUM 450
9 PEVE Clearwater
1 EROV 9082098
14 SYCH 9078675
16SYCH5255-RS
3 ERUM 01 -206-1
Rep 3 Rep 4
Seed Mixture Trial
Figure 1. Layout of the grass, forb/subshrub, and seed mixture trials at the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting.
B- 19
-------
Appendix B
Seeded Species
The species entries consist of 36 grass accessions representing 9 grass genera, 14 forb
accessions representing 5 forb genera, 2 subshrub accessions representing 1 subshrub
species, and 4 seed mixtures representing 2 seed mixture formulations (tables 3-8).
The 15 total genera tested were selected for inclusion in the study based on results
from previous Development of Acid/Heavy Metal-Tolerant Cultivars (DATC) Project
(currently DATR) studies such as the Initial Evaluation Planting study (Marty 2000, July)
and the Greenhouse Comparative Evaluation Planting study (Marty 2001, October).
Each genus tested includes at least one accession originating from metalliferous soil
sites in the proximity of the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site, except in one case. Neither of
the two Krascheninnikovia lanata accessions originated from metalliferous soils. In this
report, accessions that originated from metalliferous soils are referred to as "local,"
whereas accessions originating from undisturbed soils are referred to as "non-local."
Sampling Methods
Seedling density was the growth response variable used to assess performance during
the first growing season (2003). Measurements were taken using an 11.8- x 19.7-inch
(30- x 50-cm) quadrat frame that was randomly placed at five sample locations within
each (8- x 25-ft) treatment block. The quadrat was situated with its long axis
perpendicular to the seeded rows so that each sampling measurement included two
rows. Seedlings rooted within the quadrat frame were counted. Seeded seedlings, as
well as non-seeded seedlings, were counted and recorded separately. Photographs of
each treatment block were taken during sampling events. Density data was collected
on June 24, 2003, to assess emergence and initial establishment and on August 26,
2003, to assess subsequent establishment and/or die off.
Table 3. Forb and subshrub treatments included in the forb/subshrub trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands
Comparative Evaluation Planting.
Species
ld.#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Genus & Species
Eriogonum ovalifolium
Eriogonum umbellatum
Eriogonum umbellatum
Krascheninnikovia lantana
Krascheninnikovia lantana
Penstemon eriantherus
Penstemon eatonii
Penstemon strictus
Penstemon venustus
Phacelia hastata
Phacelia hastata
Potentilla gracilis
Potentilla hippiana
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Accession/Variety
9082098
9082271
9082273
Northern Cold Desert Germplasm
Open Range Germplasm
Old Works Germplasm
Richfield Selected
'Bandera1 477980
Clearwater Selected
9081632
9082275
9081679
9076274
9078675
9081678
9082274
Origin
Deer Lodge County, MT
Utah
Idaho
Composite from UT & ID
Composite from MT & WY
Deer Lodge County, MT
Sevier County, UT
Torrance County, NM
Clearwater River area, ID
Deer Lodge County, MT
California
California
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Colorado
Unknown
B-20
-------
Appendix B
Table 4. Grass treatments included in the grass trial at the Stucky Ridge Uplands Comparative
Evaluation Planting.
Species
ld.#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
Genus & Species
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa secunda (amp/a)
Poa secunda (amp/a)
Poa secunda (canbyi)
Poa secunda
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus wawawaiensis
Accession/Variety
9081628
9081629
'Rimrock'
'Nezpar'
9076276
9081619
9076266
'Streaker'
9076290
9082620
'Nortran'
9081620
9081621
'Pryor'
'Revenue'
'San Luis'
9081624
9081625
Washoe Germplasm
'Magnar'
Trailhead'
9081 968T
'Rodan'
'Rosana'
9016273
01-13-1
'Gruening'
1858
9081633
'Sherman'
'Canbar'
9081635
9081322
9081636
'Goldar'
'Secar'
Origin
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Yellowstone County, MT
White Bird, ID
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Illinois
Silver Bow County, MT
California
Alaska
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Carbon County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Rio Grande County, CO
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Musselshell County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Morton County, ND
Rosebud County, MT
Gallatin County, MT
British Columbia, Canada
France/Switzerland
Unknown
Deer Lodge County, MT
Sherman County, OR
Columbia County, WA
Deer Lodge County, MT
Lewis & Clark County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Asotin County, WA
Washington
Table 5. Upland Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation.
Species
Id. #
1
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Poa secunda (ampla)
Pseudoroegneria spicata
9081629
9081620
Washoe Germ.
9081968
90816273
9081633
9081636
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Gallatin County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
15.0
15.0
15.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
15.0
FORBS:
Aster chilensis
9078675
Deer Lodge County, MT
2.5
B-21
-------
Appendix B
Penstemon eriantherus
Potentilla hippiana
Old Works Germ.
9076274
Deer Lodge County, MT
Silverbow County, MT
5.0
2.5
Table 6. Upland Areas - Developed Seed Mix Formulation.
Species
Id. #
2
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus lanceolatus
Elymus trachycaulus
Festuca ovina
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda (ampla)
Pseudoroegneria spicata
'Nezpar'
'Critana'
'Revenue'
'Covar'
'Magnar'
'Rosana'
'Sherman'
'Goldar'
White Bird, ID
Hill County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Central Turkey
Saskatchewan, Canada
Rosebud County, MT
Sherman County, OR
Asotin County, WA
5.0
15.0
15.0
10.0
15.0
10.0
14.5
10.0
FORBS:
Achillea lanulosa
Artemisia frigida
Linum lewisii
Great Northern
9082258
'Appar'
Flathead County, MT
Unknown
Custer County, SD
2.5
0.5
2.5
Table 7. Waste Management Areas - Experimental Seed Mix Formulation
Species
Id. #
3
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda (ampla)
Stipa comata
9076276
9076290
9081620
Washoe Germ.
9081968
9081633
9078314
Deer Lodge County, MT
Silverbow County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
Deer Lodge County, MT
15
10
15
15
5
10
10
FORBS:
Aster chilensis
9078675
Deer Lodge County, MT
10
Table 8. Waste Management Areas - Developed Seed Mix Formulation.
Species
Id. #
4
Genus & Species
Accession/Variety
Origin
Seed Mixture Percentage
GRASSES:
Agropyrum intermedium
Bromus inermis
Elymus lanceolatus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda (ampla)
Stipa viridula
'Greenar'
'Manchar'
'Critana'
'Revenue'
'Magnar'
'Sherman'
9082255
Former USSR
Manchuria, China
Hill County, MT
Saskatchewan, Canada
Saskatchewan, Canada
Sherman County, OR
Washington
10
15
10
15
15
10
10
FORBS:
Medicago sativa
'Ladak'
Kashmir, India
15
B-22
-------
Appendix B
Data was collected on June 30/July 1 and again on September 22-23, 2004, on August
29-30, 2005, and on August 28-29, 2006. During the early summer sampling, four
randomly located frames (30 x 50 cm) were utilized, from which average plant height
was measured, percentage stand was estimated, and ocular estimates of plant vigor
were made. Random samples were located along rows 2-3 and 6-7 to avoid edge-
effect error. In the fall the same random frame locations were used to estimate
percentage stand, plant vigor, plant height (2005) and sample biomass production. If
combined biomass samples from all four replications did not yield at least 10 grams of
material, additional clipping was done so that there would be enough biomass for tissue
analysis. All biomass samples were oven dried at 60°C (140°F) for 24 hours, weighed,
and later cut into small pieces and packaged in plastic zip-lock bags for delivery to
Energy Laboratories, Inc. for tissue analysis.
Results and Discussion
Grass Trial (2003)
The grand mean of seedling density data collected on June 24, 2003, in the grass trial
was 5.4 seedlings/ft2 and ranged from 15.0 to 0.3 seedlings/ft2 (tables 9 and 10). Three
accessions of Elymus trachycaulus ('Pryor', 9081620, and 'San Luis') had the greatest
seedling densities at 15.0, 14.1, and 13.6, respectively. These results are not surprising
as Elymus trachycaulus is recognized for its excellent seedling vigor and quick
establishment and growth on a variety of soil types. Density data collected 2 months
later on August 26, 2003, indicated that these three E. trachycaulus accessions had
significantly greater densities than 86% of the accessions tested. The locally collected
E. trachycaulus 9081620, however, did not perform significantly better than 'Pryor' or
'San Luis'.
Pascopyrum smithii ('Rosana' and 9081968) had 13.3 and 12.7 seedlings/ft2,
respectively, on June 24 (table 9). P. smithii is an aggressively rhizomatous, long-lived
grass known to be adapted to a wide range of soil types from acidic to basic. Seedling
density data collected on August 26 indicated that the above P. smithii accessions also
had significantly greater densities than 86% of the accessions tested including P. smithii
'Rodan'.
Seedling density data from the June evaluation indicated that Leymus cinereus
9081624 had significantly greater density (7.8 seedlings/ft2) than 80.5% of the
accessions including the four other Leymus cinereus accessions (table 9). However, by
the August evaluation L. cinereus 9081624 was not significantly better than L. cinereus
Trailhead' (table 10). This accession's success is somewhat unexpected due to the
species' poor to fair seedling vigor and slow seedling establishment. This species has
been reported to be tolerant of elevated arsenic and heavy metal concentrations
(Munshower 1998, September).
The Pseudoroegneria spicata accessions ('Goldar' and 9081636) also performed in the
top third of the field in June and August (tables 9 and 10). In August, both accessions
B-23
-------
Appendix B
mentioned above had significantly better seedling densities than >50% of the
accessions. The local accession P. spicata 9081636 did not perform significantly better
than P. spicata 'Goldar'. P. spicata is reported to have fair seedling vigor and
establishment with tolerances to acidic to slightly alkaline soils.
The grand mean for the August 26, 2003, evaluation is 4.3 seedlings/ft2 and ranged
from 14.5 to 0.31 seedlings/ft2 (table 10). This indicates that seedling density declined
by 1.1 seedlings/ft2 or 20.4% between the June and August evaluations.
Grass Trials (2004)
Based on the number of new seedlings found in 2004, there were many seeds that did
not germinate during the 2003 growing season. The most notable species were
Achnatherum hymenoides (Indian ricegrass), Leymus cinereus (basin wildrye), and
Pascopyrum smithii (western wheatgrass). Indian ricegrass has a hard seed coat and
should normally be dormant-seeded in the fall, but the basin wildrye and western
wheatgrass may have delayed germination because of the combination of a relatively
late spring planting date and subsequent hot, dry weather. The increase in new
seedlings could be expressed in relatively higher percentage stands, but was not
revealed in the biomass production, as seedlings were still quite small at the time of the
late summer biomass sampling.
At the early summer sampling (6/30/04), the top accession, by a significant amount, was
9081620 slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus) with a 61.3% stand, 54.4 cm
average height, and a 3.4 vigor rating. Other 'local source' accessions that exhibited
good survival, stand, and vigor included 9081633 big bluegrass (Poa secunda),
9081621 slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus), 9081968 western wheatgrass
(Pascopyrum smithii), 9081624 basin wildrye (Leymus cinereus), 9081628 Indian
ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides), 9081635 Canby bluegrass (Poa secunda), and
9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) (see table 11 and 12).
Toward the end of the growing season (9/22/04 sampling date), there was very little
change in the top performing accessions (table 13). Of the top 16 accessions in the
early summer evaluation, 15 were still ranked as the top performing accessions. The
9081620 slender wheatgrass remained as the top performer by a significant margin. Of
the 'local source' accessions, 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081621 slender wheatgrass,
9081968 western wheatgrass, 9081635 Canby bluegrass, 9081624 basin wildrye, and
9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass all show promise, and are among those being
increased at the Bridger PMC for potential release to the commercial seed industry.
Fall biomass production was relatively low, with only 9081620 slender wheatgrass
producing more than 706 kg/ha (2,083 kg/ha) (table 14). Some of the low production
can be attributed to the number of new seedlings emerging in 2004. Also 2-year-old
plants were often spindly because of the harsh edaphic conditions. Toward the end of
the growing season (9/22/04 sampling date), there was very little change in the top
performing accessions (table 13). Of the top 16 accessions in the early summer
evaluation, 15 were still ranked as the top performing accessions. The 9081620 slender
wheatgrass remained as the top performer by a significant margin.
B-24
-------
Appendix B
Grass Trials (2005)
The grasses were evaluated and sampled on August 30, 2005. Although there has
been some mortality, the top performers of 2003/2004 continue to exhibit their ability to
withstand the harsh edaphic conditions of this site. Slender wheatgrass (9081620) is
the top performer with an average stand of 75% (table 15), average plant height of
87.5 cm (table 16), and average biomass production of 8,211 kg/ha (table 17). Other
superior accessions include 9081633 big bluegrass (stand-43.4%, biomass-2,506
kg/ha), 9081621 slender wheatgrass (stand-34.1%, biomass-4,100 kg/ha), 9081635
bluegrass (stand-25.9%, biomass-906 kg/ha), 9081968 western wheatgrass (stand-
21.9%, biomass-800 kg/ha), and 9081624 basin wildrye (stand-22.2%, biomass-1,844
kg/ha). The released cultivars, Secar Snake River wheatgrass, Pryor slender
wheatgrass, San Luis slender wheatgrass, Rosana western wheatgrass, and Trailhead
basin wildrye were among the top performers; but, in most cases, performances were
slightly less than their indigenous counterparts.
Grass Trials (2006)
The grasses were evaluated and sampled on August 28 & 29, 2006. There has been
some change in the order of performance but the top performers from 2003-2005 are
still in the top 10. Slender wheatgrass (9081620) is still the top overall performer with
and average stand of 78.13% (table 18), average plant height of 77.31 cm (table 19),
and average biomass production of 2311.11 kg/ha (table 20). Other top performers
include 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081621 slender wheatgrass, 9081635 Canbyi
bluegrass, and 9081624 basin wildrye. Western wheatgrass (9081968) dropped down
from a standing of number 7 in 2005 to number 15 in 2006. The released cultivars,
Secar Snake River wheatgrass, Pryor slender wheatgrass, San Luis slender
wheatgrass, Rosana western wheatgrass, and Trailhead basin wildrye were still among
the top performers; but their overall performance had not improved by any significance.
B-25
-------
Appendix B
Table 9. Density (seedlings per square foot) sampled on June 24, 2003, at the Stucky Ridge
Comparative Evaluation Planting grass trial.
Genus & Species
Accession
Species ID Density/ft2 Mean Separation
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
'Pry or1
9081620
'San Luis'
'Rosana'
9081968
9081636
9081624
'Secar'
9081621
'Goldar'
'Nezpar'
'Revenue'
9081633
'Magnar'
Trailhead'
'Rodan'
9081625
Washoe Germplasm
'Sherman'
9081619
9016273
9081635
9076276
1858
9076290
9081322
'Rimrock'
'Canbar'
'Nortran'
9076266
9081629
'Streaker'
01-13-1
9081628
13970176
'Gruening'
14
12
16
24
22
34
17
36
13
35
4
15
29
20
21
23
18
19
30
6
25
32
5
28
9
33
3
31
11
7
2
8
26
1
10
27
14.88
14.01
13.54
13.23
12.64
12.30
11.18
9.41
9.29
9.04
8.88
8.70
7.08
6.09
5.78
5.62
3.82
3.63
3.11
2.42
2.33
1.86
1.74
1.71
1.33
1.31
1.27
1.21
0.99
0.81
0.78
0.75
0.65
0.59
0.56
0.34
A*
AB
AB
AB
AB
AB
BC
CD
CD
CD
CDE
CDE
DEF
EFG
FGH
FGH
GHI
GHIJ
HIJK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
JK
K
K
K
K
K
K
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-26
-------
Appendix B
Table 10. Density (seedlings per square foot) sampled on August 26, 2003, at the Stucky Ridge
Comparative Evaluation Planting grass trial.
Genus & Species
Accession
Species ID Density/ft2
Mean Separation
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus wawawaiensis
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
9081620
'San Luis'
'Rosana'
9081968
'Pryor'
'Revenue'
9081624
'Goldar'
9081636
'Secar'
'Nezpar'
9081621
'Rodan'
9081633
Trailhead'
'Magnar'
9081625
'Sherman'
9081619
Washoe Germplasm
9076276
1858
9081635
01-13-1
9076266
'Rimrock'
9016273
'Nortran'
9081322
9081628
'Gruening'
'Canbar'
9076290
13970176
'Streaker'
9081629
12
16
24
22
14
15
17
35
34
36
4
13
23
29
21
20
18
30
6
19
5
28
32
26
7
3
25
11
33
1
27
31
9
10
8
2
14.38
13.35
11.93
11.52
11.43
8.32
7.76
7.21
7.11
6.52
6.49
6.06
5.71
5.12
4.88
2.98
2.33
2.33
2.27
2.14
1.46
1.24
1.09
1.03
0.96
0.90
0.90
0.87
0.71
0.59
0.53
0.47
0.44
0.37
0.34
0.28
A*
AB
AB
B
B
C
C
CD
CD
CD
CD
CD
CD
DE
DEF
EFG
FGH
FGH
FGH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
GH
H
H
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-27
-------
Appendix B
Table 11. Percentage stand and vigor of grass trials on Stucky Ridge Plots (evaluated
6/30/04).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Accession
9081620
Rimrock
9081633
9081621
Pryor
9081968
Nezpar
9081624
Secar
Revenue
San Luis
9081628
Rosana
Trailhead
9081635
9081636
Washoe
Magnar
Rodan
9081619
9081625
Goldar
9081629
9076276
Sherman
01-13-1
9076290
9081322
9016273
9076266
1858
Nortran
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
13970176
Stand
%
61.3 A*
31.3 B
31.3 B
28.4 BC
26.9 BCD
26.7 BCD
25.3 BCDE
20.8 BCDEF
20.0 BCDEFG
19.7 CDEFG
18.6 CDEFGH
18.3 CDEFGH
16.9 DEFGHI
15.1 EFGHIJ
15.0 EFGHIJ
14.5 EFGHIJK
12.8 FGHIJKL
12.2 FGHIJKL
11.8 FGHIJKLM
10.7 FGHIJKLM
10.1 FGHIJKLM
10.0 FGHIJKLM
8.6 GHIJKLM
8.1 HIJKLM
6.2 IJKLM
4.1 JKLM
4.0 JKLM
3.6 KLM
3.3 KLM
3.1 KLM
1.4 LM
0.6 M
0.5 M
0.4 M
0.4 M
0.2 M
Vigor
1-9
2.1
4.8
3.3
3.4
4.9
4.9
5.0
4.4
4.6
4.8
4.8
5.6
4.8
4.8
3.3
5.2
5.0
5.2
5.3
3.2
5.4
5.1
5.7
2.9
4.8
3.3
4.2
4.3
4.5
4.0
4.5
5.3
4.0
5.2
6.2
5.5
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-28
-------
Appendix B
Table 12. Average plant height of grasses in Stucky Ridge plots (measured 6/30/04).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls glgantea
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Elymus wawawaiensis
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Deschampsia caespitosa
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Accession
9081620
9081621
9076276
9081619
9081633
Secar
9081635
9076266
Pryor
9081624
9081322
Goldar
Nezpar
Sherman
Trailhead
San Luis
9076290
Revenue
Rosana
Rim rock
Magnar
Washoe
Rodan
9081636
Streaker
9081968
9081625
9081628
01-13-1
9081629
13970176
Canbar
Nortran
9016273
Gruening
1858
Height
mm
54.37
34.19
33.13
27.13
26.25
23.88
23.31
20.96
18.50
17.94
17.63
17.33
16.94
16.54
16.06
14.50
14.41
14.25
13.50
13.00
13.00
12.36
12.27
12.04
11.83
11.38
10.67
9.04
8.11
7.54
7.00
6.33
6.00
5.71
4.50
3.83
A*
B
B
BC
BCD
CDE
CDE
CDEF
CDEFG
DEFG
DEFGH
EFGH
EFGH
EFGHI
EFGHIJ
FGHIJK
FGHIJKL
FGHIJKL
FGHIJKL
FGHIJKLM
FGHIJKLM
FGHIJKLMN
FGHIJKLMN
GHIJKLMN
GHIJKLMN
GHIJKLMN
GHIJKLMN
HIJKLMN
IJKLMN
JKLMN
KLMN
KLMN
KLMN
LMN
MN
N
' Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-29
-------
Appendix B
Table 13. Percentage stand and vigor of grasses in Stucky Ridge plots (evaluated
9/22/04).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081968
Pryor
Rosana
9081635
Revenue
Rim rock
9081624
Trailhead
Secar
San Luis
Nezpar
9081619
9081636
Rodan
9076276
9081628
Washoe
Magnar
Goldar
Sherman
9081322
9081625
9081629
01-13-1
9076266
9076290
9016273
1858
Streaker
13970176
Gruening
Nortran
Canbar
Stand
%
61.25 A*
37.19 B
30.00 BC
28.44 BCD
26.25 CDE
26.25 CDE
24.06 CDEF
23.75 CDEFG
23.44 CDEFG
22.81 CDEFGH
20.00 DEFGHI
19.19 DEFGHI
19.06 DEFGHI
18.44 EFGHI
17.81 EFGHIJ
17.50 EFGHIJK
16.56 EFGHIJK
15.94 FGHIJKL
4.38 FGHIJKLM
14.06 GHIJKLMN
13.44 HIJKLMN
13.44 HIJKLMN
12.19 IJKLMN
11.88 IJKLMNO
11.56 IJKLMNO
11.25 IJKLMNO
8.44 JKLMNOP
7.81 KLMNOP
6.25 LMNOP
5.19 MNOP
4.38 NOP
1.88 OP
1.88 OP
1.06 P
0.44 P
0.00 P
Vigor
1—9
1.8
2.4
2.7
4.0
4.6
3.6
2.8
4.3
4.2
3.6
4.0
4.0
4.4
4.1
2.1
3.8
4.5
2.7
4.9
4.6
4.7
4.1
4.1
2.9
4.1
5.4
3.6
2.1
2.8
3.6
3.6
4.0
3.3
3.3
3.0
9.0
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-30
-------
Appendix B
Table 14. Biomass production of grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials (clipped 9/22/04).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls glgantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Agrostls glgantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Deschampsla caespltosa
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Leymus cinereus
Deschampsla caespltosa
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Deschampsla caespltosa
Poa alpina
Agrostls glgantea
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081619
9081621
Secar
9081633
Pryor
9081624
Washoe
9076276
Revenue
9081635
9076290
Trailhead
9076266
Sherman
Nezpar
Goldar
9081968
9081625
San Luis
9081636
Rosana
01-13-1
Rodan
Rimrock
9016273
Magnar
Nortran
9081628
9081322
9081629
Gruening
13970176
1858
Streaker
Canbar
Biomass
kg/ha
2,083
706
544
413
408
386
333
289
287
266
216
193
192
185
183
169
165
127
124
100
97
95
92
85
84
80
75
73
34
24
23
15
8
7
0
0
A*
B
BC
BCD
BCD
BCDE
CDEF
CDEF
CDEF
CDEF
CDEF
CDEF
CDEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
DEF
EF
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-31
-------
Appendix B
Table15. Percentage stand and vigor of grass trials on Stucky Ridge Plots (evaluated
8/30/05).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Leymus cinereus
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081635
Pryor
9081624
9081968
Secar
San Luis
Rosana
Trailhead
Rodan
9081628
Rim rock
9081625
9081636
9081619
Washoe
9076276
Sherman
Nezpar
Revenue
Goldar
Magnar
9076290
9081322
9076266
9081629
01-13-1
1858
9016273
Nortran
13970176
Gruening
Streaker
Canbar
Stand
%
75.0 A*
43.4 B
34.1 BC
25.9 CD
23.1 CDE
22.2 CDEF
21.9 DEFG
21.6 DEFG
20.9 DEFGH
20.6 DEFGH
16.2 DEFGHI
16.2 DEFGHI
14.1 DEFGHIJ
14.1 DEFGHIJ
13.8 DEFGHIJ
13.8 DEFGHIJ
13.4 EFGHIJK
13.4 EFGHIJK
13.1 EFGHIJK
12.5 EFGHIJKL
11.9 EFGHIJKLM
11.9 EFGHIJKLM
11.1 EFGHIJKLM
10.9 FGHIJKLM
10.6 FGHIJKLM
10.0 GHIJKLM
9.0 HIJKLM
6.4 IJKLM
3.9 JKLM
3.6 JKLM
3.0 JKLM
1.6 KLM
0.9 LM
0.8 LM
0.4 M
0.1 M
Vigor
1-9
2.1
2.1
2.7
3.3
5.3
3.8
4.5
4.3
4.6
4.7
4.3
5.0
5.3
4.5
5.5
4.5
3.2
4.8
3.7
4.0
4.6
5.4
4.6
5.2
3.9
4.2
4.0
5.7
5.0
5.3
3.8
3.8
3.8
1.5
1.5
8.0
Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-32
-------
Appendix B
Table 16. Average plant height of grasses in Stucky Ridge plots (measured 8/30/05).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls glgantea
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pascopyrum smithii
Deschampsia caespitosa
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Deschampsia caespitosa
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081621
9081633
9081624
Secar
San Luis
9081625
Pryor
9081619
9081635
Trailhead
9081322
9076276
Washoe
9081636
Rim rock
9076266
Goldar
Revenue
Magnar
9076290
Sherman
Nezpar
Rodan
Nortran
Rosana
9081968
13970176
9081628
9081629
9016273
01-13-1
Streaker
1858
Gruening
Canbar
Height
(cm)
87.5 A*
76.3 A
59.1 B
58.0 B
50.3 BC
48.8 BC
47.7 BC
47.0 BC
46.5 BCD
45.6 BCDE
45.5 BCDE
45.4 BCDEF
44.7 BCDEF
43.6 BCDEF
39.7 CDEFG
39.5 CDEFG
38.9 CDEFG
38.1 CDEFGH
36.9 CDEFGH
36.7 CDEFGH
36.5 CDEFGH
34.9 CDEFGHI
33.7 CDEFGHI
30.9 DEFGHIJ
30.3 EFGHIJK
29.8 FGHIJK
24.7 GHIJKL
24.0 GHIJKL
22.8 HIJKL
20.3 IJKL
17.0 JKL
15.7 JKLM
15.0 JKLM
10.8 JKLM
9.0 JKLM
0.0 M
' Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-33
-------
Appendix B
Table 17. Biomass production of grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials (clipped 8/30/05).
Genus & Species
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostls gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls gigantea
Elymus wawawaiensis
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Deschampsla caespltosa
Pascopyrum smithii
Pascopyrum smithii
Leymus cinereus
Elymus tachycaulus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegnerla splcata
Pseudoroegneria splcata
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsla caespltosa
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsla caespltosa
Poa secunda
Accession
9081620
9081621
9081633
Trailhead
9081619
9076276
9081624
Pryor
9076266
Secar
9081635
Nezpar
9076290
9081968
Rosana
Magnar
San Luis
Revenue
9081625
Washoe
Rim rock
9081636
Goldar
9081322
Rodan
Sherman
Streaker
9081629
9081628
9016273
1858
13970176
01-13-1
Gruening
Nortran
Canbar
Biomass
kg/ha
8,211 A*
4,100 B
2,506 C
2,222 CD
2,189 CD
2,039 CDE
1,844 CDEF
1,578 CDEFG
1,367 CDEFGH
1,289 CDEFGH
906 DEFGH
872 DEFGH
844 DEFGH
800 DEFGH
650 EFGH
639 EFGH
622 EFGH
578 FGH
428 FGH
361 GH
339 GH
317 GH
272 GH
233 GH
189 GH
189 GH
122 H
61 H
61 H
51 H
28 H
28 H
23 H
0 H
0 H
0 H
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-34
-------
Appendix B
Table 18: Percentage stand and vigor of grass trials on Stucky Ridge Plots
(evaluated 8/28/06).
Scientific Name
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Poa secunda
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Achnatherum hymenoides
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa alpina
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Accession
9081620
9081633
9081621
9081619
9081624
San Luis
Secar
9081635
Pryor
9076276
Trailhead
Rosana
Rim rock
Sherman
9081968
9076266
9081625
Goldar
Revenue
Rodan
Nezpar
Washoe
Magnar
9081628
Streaker
9081629
Gruening
9081322
9081636
9016273
01-13-1
Nortran
13970176
Canbar
1858
9076290
Stand
%
78.13 A*
63.13 A
41.25 B
29.38 BC
28.13 BCD
26.56 BCDE
25.31 BCDEF
23.75 BCDEFG
22.19 CDEFGH
21.56 CDEFGHI
19.38 CDEFGHIJ
17.19 CDEFGHIJ
14.06 CDEFGHIJ
13.44 CDEFGHIJ
12.81 CDEFGHIJ
11.25 CDEFGHIJ
10.94 CDEFGHIJ
10.94 CDEFGHIJ
10.63 CDEFGHIJ
10.63 CDEFGHIJ
9.69 DEFGHIJ
9.06 EFGHIJ
7.19 FGHIJ
5.94 GHIJ
5.94 GHIJ
4.69 HIJ
4.69 HIJ
4.06 HIJ
3.44 HIJ
3.44 HIJ
2.81 IJ
2.81 IJ
2.81 IJ
2.50 J
1.88 J
0.63 J
Vigor
1-9
3.25
2.94
3.44
3.25
4.77
4.58
4.04
4.06
5.04
3.65
4.73
5.00
4.50
4.38
5.52
4.00
4.85
4.50
4.58
4.39
3.85
4.67
5.19
4.42
5.10
4.92
5.47
4.00
5.38
5.50
4.75
6.13
5.17
5.00
5.00
4.50
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-35
-------
Appendix B
Table 19: Average plant height of grasses in Stucky Ridge plots (measured 8/28/06).
Scientific Name
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Elymus trachycaulus
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Poa secunda
Poa secunda
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Agrostis gigantea
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Poa alpina
Poa alpina
Agrostis gigantea
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Agrostis gigantea
Poa alpina
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Pascopyrum smithii
Deschampsia caespitosa
Accession
9081621
9081624
Trailhead
9081620
9081625
Secar
San Luis
Washoe
Magnar
Pryor
9081633
Sherman
Canbar
Nezpar
9081619
9076276
Revenue
Rimrock
Goldar
9081635
1-13-1
1858
9076266
Rodan
9081322
Nortran
9081628
9081636
Streaker
Gruening
9081629
Rosana
9016273
13970176
9081968
9076290
Height
(cm)
78.56 A*
78.56 A
77.88 A
77.31 A
74.04 AB
69.96 ABC
69.92 ABC
67.88 ABCD
66.33 ABCDE
64.31 ABCDEF
62.38 ABCDEFG
61.94 ABCDEFGH
60.75 ABCDEFGH
57.33 BCDEFGHI
57.11 BCDEFGHIJ
57.04 BCDEFGHIJ
54.92 CDEFGHIJ
54.31 CDEFGHIJ
52.63 CDEFGHIJ
50.81 DEFGHIJK
50.75 DEFGHIJK
50.00 DEFGHIJKL
48.88 EFGHIJKL
48.33 FGHIJKL
47.13 FGHIJKLM
46.50 FGHIJKLM
46.25 GHIJKLM
45.75 GHIJKLM
45.39 GHIJKLM
44.47 HIJKLM
42.50 IJKLMN
39.38 JKLMN
33.00 KLMN
32.67 LMN
30.00 MN
26.50 N
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-36
-------
Appendix B
Table 20: Biomass production of grasses in Stucky Ridge Trials (clipped 8/28/06).
Scientific Name
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostls glgantea
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Poa secunda
Leymus cinereus
Elymus wawawaiensis
Leymus cinereus
Leymus cinereus
Agrostis gigantea
Leymus cinereus
Elymus trachycaulus
Agrostis gigantea
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Achnatherum hymenoides
Elymus trachycaulus
Pascopyrum smithii
Elymus trachycaulus
Achnatherum hymenoides
Agrostis gigantea
Achnatherum hymenoides
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa secunda
Pseudoroegneria spicata
Poa secunda
Pascopyrum smithii
Poa alpina
Achnatherum hymenoides
Poa secunda
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Deschampsia caespitosa
Poa alpina
Accession
9081621
9081619
9081624
9081620
9081633
Trailhead
Secar
Washoe
9081625
9076276
Magnar
Revenue
9076266
9081635
Goldar
Nezpar
Pryor
Rodan
San Luis
Rim rock
Streaker
9081628
9081968
9081322
9081636
Sherman
Rosana
01-13-1
9081629
Canbar
Nortran
Gruening
9076290
9016273
13970176
1858
Biomass
kg/ha
4894.44 A*
3322.22 AB
2633.33 BC
2311.11 BCD
2311.11 BCD
2255.56 BCDE
2172.22 BCDE
1988.89 BCDEF
1761.11 BCDEFG
1550.00 CDEFGH
1550.00 CDEFGH
1272.22 CDEFGH
1216.67 CDEFGH
1150.00 CDEFGH
1072.22 CDEFGH
1022.22 CDEFGH
1000.00 CDEFGH
922.22 DEFGH
777.78 DEFGH
677.78 DEFGH
622.22 EFGH
461.11 FGH
455.56 FGH
444.44 FGH
400.00 FGH
305.56 GH
294.44 GH
177.78 GH
138.89 GH
122.22 GH
88.89 GH
83.33 H
77.78 H
72.22 H
38.89 H
5.56 H
* Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 0.05 significance level using the
LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-37
-------
Appendix B
Seed Mixture Trial
The forbs included in the seed mixtures (see Planting Design section) did not emerge;
therefore, densities reflect only emergent grass seedlings (tables 5, 6, 7, and 8). During
the establishment year, the Developed Waste Management Area (WMA) mix had the
greatest seedling density with 10.5 seedlings/ft2 (table 21). The Experimental WMA mix
had the lowest density with 6.3 seedlings/ft The two Developed mixtures averaged 9.9
seedlings/ft2. The two Experimental mixtures averaged 6.3 seedlings/ft2. There were
no significant differences among the mixtures at the P=0.05 level. By the fall of the first
year, the Developed WMA mixture still had the highest density (8.0 seedlings/ft2) and
the Experimental WMA mixture the lowest density (6.9 seedlings/ft2). The two
Developed mixtures averaged 7.7 seedlings/ft2 and the two Experimental mixtures
averaged 6.9 seedlings/ft2. As in June, no significant differences were seen among the
four seed mixtures.
At the start of the second growing season (2004), the two Experimental mixes had
significantly better stands (Upland Exp.—39.4% and Waste Mgmt. Exp.—38.1%) than
did the Developed mixes (Upland Dev.—17.3 and Waste Mgmt. Dev.—15.0%). By fall
of the second year, the stands of all the mixes had increased, but the Experimental
mixes were still significantly better than the Developed mixes. Biomass production of
the Experimental mixes was also significantly better than that of the Developed mixes.
During the third year (2005), the percentage stands of all mixes increased only slightly,
but the biomass production was much higher. The Experimental mixes were dominated
by 9081620 slender wheatgrass, while the Developed mixes were dominated by
Revenue slender wheatgrass and Critana thickspike wheatgrass. The Waste
Management Experimental mix topped all mixes with 8,933 kg/ha of oven-dry biomass
production.
Growing season 2006 took a different approach; the percentage stand went up in all but
one, the Upland Experimental mix. Biomass production of all mixes had decreased, but
the Waste Management mixes dominated over the Upland mixes. The biomass
decrease averaged 34.5% for the Experimental mixes and 81.2% for the Developed
mixes. Overall I think the grass mixes are doing well and this year was a recovery year
for production, compared to last year's high biomass production.
B-38
-------
Appendix B
Table 21. Moto-X Replicated Mixture Trial on Stucky Ridge.
Upland Exp.
Upland Dev.
Waste Mgmt
Area Exp
Waste Mgmt
Area Dev
Density
6/03
no/ft2
6.4
9.3
6.3
10.5
Density
8/03
no/ff
7.4
7.0
6.9
8.0
Stand
6/04
%
39.4
17.3
38.1
15.0
Stand
9/04
%
45.9
24.4
46.9
23.8
Stand
8/05
%
60.6
25.9
59.7
28.4
Stand
8/06
%
49.7
35.9
65.0
38.1
Height
2004
cm
45.8
14.8
44.8
19.8
Height
2005
cm
78.8
47.2
82.5
56.6
Height
2006
cm
75.3
57.6
76.3
72.3
Biomass
2004
kg/ha
790
215
1206
306
Biomass
2005
kg/ha
5939
2011
8933
4494
Biomass
2006
kg/ha
1367
1783
4106
3311
B-39
-------
Appendix B
Forb/Subshrub Trial
Ten of the 16 trial entries had no emergence and 15 of the 16 entries had <0.50
seedlings/ft2 the seedling year (table 22). The subshrub, winterfat (Krascheninnikovia
lanata) Open Range Germplasm, was the only entry that demonstrated significant
emergence with 9.5 seedlings/ft2. The lack of forb emergence may be due to the
May 13 planting date. The forb species in the study may have some physiological (after
ripening) or physical (hard seed coat) seed dormancy. To overcome seed dormancy,
many forb seeds generally require several weeks (8 to 14 weeks) of cold chilling. As
with the grass species, some additional germination and emergence was expected in
the spring of 2004, but this did not happen with the forb species. Some species such as
thickstem aster (Symphyotrichum chilense) and buckwheat (Eriogonum sp.) do better
with shallow seeding. By the second growing season, only plants of Open Range
winterfat and 9081632 silverleaf phacelia remained alive. There was no sign of new
emergence of any of the accessions/species in the spring of 2004. The surviving,
mature plants of Open Range Germplasm winterfat performed well, with some plants
flowering and setting seed. After the third growing season (2005), plants of Open
Range winterfat, 9081632 silverleaf phacelia, Old Works fuzzytongue penstemon,
Richfield firecracker penstemon, and Northern Cold Desert winterfat were found to be
surviving. New plants of firecracker penstemon and fuzzytongue penstemon had
germinated two years after being planted. The surviving plants of Open Range winterfat
and 9081632 silverleaf phacelia exhibited good vigor, growth, and seed production. In
2006 the only surviving plants were the Open Range winterfat and Old Works
fuzzytongue penstemon. Both showed good vigor and seed production.
Table 22. Seedling density (2003), percentage stand (2004), and total plant density (2005) of forb and
subshrub accessions in the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Planting (evaluated 6/24/03,
8/25/03, 6/30/04, 9/22/04, 8/30/05, and 8/29/06).
Genus & Species
Krascheninnikovia lanata
Phacelia hastata
Krascheninnikovia lanata
Penstemon strictus
Eriogonum umbellatum
Penstemon venustus
Eriogonum umbellatum
Penstemon eatonii
Eriogonum ovalifolium
Penstemon eriantherus
Phacelia hastata
Potentilla gracilis
Potentilla hippiana
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Symphyotrichum chilense
Variety/Accession
Open Range Germplasm
9081 632
Northern Cold Desert Germ.
'Bandera'
9082271
Clearwater Selected
9082273
Richfield Select
9082098
Old Works Germplasm
9082275
9081 679
9076274
9078675
9081678
9082274
Species
ID
5
10
4
8
2
9
3
7
1
6
11
12
13
14
15
16
2003 Density/ft2
6/24 8/25
9.47 a*
0.28 b
0.19 b
0.19 b
0.06 b
0.03 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
6.75 a*
0.22 b
0.16 b
0.03 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
0.00 b
2005
Avg. Plants/
2004 Stand Plot
6/30 9/22 8/30
5.5 a*
0.5 b
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
4.5 a*
0.5 b
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
O.Ob
20.00
6.00
0.25
0
0
0
0
0.75
0
15.00
0
0
0
0
0
0
2006
Avg. Plants/
Plot
8/28
17
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
' Means followed by the same letter are similar at the 0.05 level of significance using the LSD Mean Comparison method.
B-40
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Appendix B
Tissue Analysis
Following the Fall 2004 and Fall 2005 evaluation for cover and vigor, each individual
plot was sampled for biomass production. These clippings from all four replications,
along with additional clipping of low producing plots, made up the 10 gram or greater of
oven-dry samples that were submitted for tissue analysis. Samples were submitted to
Energy Laboratories, Inc. in Billings, Montana, for determination of heavy-metal
concentrations in and on sampled plant materials from the Stucky Ridge Moto-X site.
Metal loads (concentration in and on the plant tissue) can be compared to maximum
tolerable levels of dietary minerals for domestic animals (National Research Council
1980). The dietary level of cadmium for domesticated animals is based on human food
residue considerations (NRC, 1980), and the need to avoid increases of cadmium in the
food supply of the United States. Higher residue levels (>0.50 mg/kg) for a short period
of time would not be expected to be harmful to animal health nor to human food use,
particularly if the animals were slaughtered at a young age. Based on a review of the
scientific literature, ranges of elemental levels for mature leaf tissue have been
presented by Kabata-Pendias and Pendias (1992). The authors provide elemental
levels for generalized plant species into ranges representing deficient, sufficient, or
normal, and excessive or toxic (table 23).
All tissue samples are unreplicated composites of samples from random plants in all
four replications of the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Trial. Metal loads in the
sampled tissue were generally below toxic levels.
Arsenic (As)—Arsenic was detected in 19 of the 39 samples in 2004, in 32 of the
40 samples in 2005, and 3 of the 42 samples in 2006 with levels ranging from 5 mg/kg
to 35 mg/kg. This is below the tolerable levels for domestic livestock (50 mg/kg) and
wildlife (50 mg/kg). However, the detected levels rank in the 'Excessive or Toxic' level
in plants.
Cadmium (Cd)—This element was detected in only one sample (Rimrock Indian
ricegrass) in 2004 and in 2005 it was detected in 5 samples (3 of which were in Indian
ricegrasses). In 2006 there was no detection of cadmium in any sample. The detected
level (1-2 mg/kg) are at the tolerable level for domestic livestock (0.5 mg/kg) and
wildlife (2 mg/kg).
Copper (Cu)—Copper detected in all tissue samples ranging from 5 mg/kg to 307
mg/kg. Only three samples (2004), 5 samples (2005), and no samples (2006)
exceeded the tolerable level for domestic livestock (100 mg/kg), but 15 samples
(2004), 19 samples (2005), and 1 sample (2006) exceeded the tolerable level for wildlife
(55 mg/kg). Since this is a copper smelting impacted area, high levels of copper are to
be expected.
Lead (Pb)—Lead was detected in a sample of ten-petal blazing star (Mentselia
decapetala) only (2004), at a level of 9 mg/kg, well below the tolerable level for
domestic livestock and wildlife. In 2005 lead was detected in only four samples and at
very low levels. In 2006 lead was detected in two samples and one sample rated in the
"Excessive or Toxic" level in plants.
Zinc (Zn)—Zinc was detected in all samples, ranging from 9 mg/kg to 175 mg/kg
well below the tolerable level for domestic livestock (500 mg/kg) and wildlife (300
B-41
-------
Appendix B
mg/kg). In 2006 zinc was detected in all samples but with low levels. The levels ranged
from 9 to 35 except for LECI Trailhead which had a level of 125, still well below the
tolerable levels for domestic livestock and wildlife and in the normal level for plants.
Worth noting was the fact that heavy metal concentrations were highest in/on alpine
blue grass, silverleaf phacelia, winterfat and fuzzytongue penstemon. This is likely due
to the excess dust particles on the low profile plants and ones with leaf pubescence.
B-42
-------
Appendix B
Table 23. Heavy metal concentrations of clipped biomass samples from the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Trials
(sampled 9/22/04, analyzed 1 1/10/04, sampled 8/29/05, sampled 8/28/06).
Lot
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
Species
ACHY 9081628
ACHY 9081629
ACHY Rimrock
ACHYNezpar
AGGI 9076276
AGGI 9081619
AGGI 9076266
AGGI Streaker
DECE 9076290
DECE 13970176
DECE Nortran
ELTR 908 1620
ELTR 908 1621
ELTR Pryor
ELTR Revenue
ELTR San Luis
LECI 9081624
LECI 9081625
LECI Washoe
LECI Magnar
LECI Trailhead
PASM 908 1968
PASMRodan
PASMRosana
POAL 9016273
POAL 01-13-1
POAL Greuning
POAL 1858
POSE 9081633
POSE Sherman
POSE Canbar
POSP 9081635
POSP 9081 322
PSSP 9081636
PSSP Goldar
2004
331
288
235
276
258
663
548
334
1420
336
242
197
301
280
441
424
463
472
636
441
374
495
210
799
1220
706
1190
442
311
Al
mg/kg
2005
279
420
332
200
382
375
320
2500
405
121
285
283
4ff
445
193
436
559
366
410
391
315
243
318
1740
695
1410
417
420
no samples
364
441
676
654
549
346
931
548
2006
62
101
101
54
158
136
190
80
473
188
151
136
70
127
140
147
119
111
101
235
272
163
186
162
148
67
75
155
95
43
168
220
137
74
2004
tog/
9
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
5
8
8
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
6
7
11
ND
6
7
6
7
8
ND
ND
9
9
11
ND
16
13
As
2005
;g 8
8
9
ND
6
ND
6
35
6
6
5
ND
8
7
6
5
9
ND
8
8
5
6
9
21
17
20
ND
12
14
9
20
12
2006
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
7
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
5
6
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2004
Nag/
ND
5
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
Cd
2005
-------
Appendix B
Table 23. Heavy metal concentrations of clipped biomass samples from the Stucky Ridge Comparative Evaluation Trials
(sampled 9/22/04,analyzed 11/10/04, samples 8/29/05, sampled 8/28/06).
Lot
36
1
2
3
4
5
6
10
Species
ELWA Secar
UPEXP
UPDEV
WMAEXP
WMADEV
KRLA Op. Range
PEER Old Works
PHHA 9081632
2004
396
392
268
374
270
1173
Al
mg/kg
2005
635
266
545
421
548
372
1280
3720
2006
94
94
118
84
124
132
192
2004
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
7.5
As
mg/kg
2005
7
ND
12
ND
9
ND
14
42
2006
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2004
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
Cd
mg/kg
2005
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2006
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2004
34
51
31
35
26
108
Cu
mg/kg
2005
59
43
69
50
66
44
65
307
2006
14
15
14
11
15
15
15
2004
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
Pb
mg/kg
2005
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
15
2006
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2004
68
22
73
27
67
82
Zn
mg/kg
2005
65
31
40
25
44
47
31
91
2006
17
11
11
11
10
14
10
Maximum Tolerable Levels for
Domestic livestock 1.
Wildlife 2.
Metal levels in Plants 3.
Deficient
Sufficient or Normal
Excessive or Toxic
50
50
0.5
100
55
30
40
500
300
ltol.7
5 to 20 2
0.05 to 0.2
5 to 30
2 to 5
5 to 30
20 to 100
5 to 10
30 to 300
27 to 150
100 to 400
1. NRC 1980, 2. Ford, 1996, 3. Kabata-Pendias and Pendias 1992.
B-44
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Appendix B
CONCLUSION
Not all of the potential germinable seeds germinated the first year (2003). The record
high temperatures and low precipitation in July and August, along with the late spring
planting date (May 13), are considered to be the primary factors affecting the
incomplete germination and emergence during the 2003 growing season. There was a
significant amount of new grass seedling emergence detected during the June 30,
2004, evaluation, particularly in the Indian ricegrass, western wheatgrass, big
bluegrass, and basin wildrye plots and some new germination of forbs in 2005.
In the single-species plots, the 'local source' plants that exhibited superior performance
include 9081620 and 9081621 slender wheatgrass, 9081633 big bluegrass, 9081968
western wheatgrass, 9081624 and Washoe Germplasm basin wildrye, 9081628 Indian
ricegrass, 9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass, and 9081635 Canbyi bluegrass. The
superior indigenous plant material is being further increased for potential release to the
commercial seed industry. Worth noting was the performance of some of the released
cultivars such as Pryor and Revenue slender wheatgrass, Rosana western wheatgrass,
Rimrock Indian ricegrass, Trailhead basin wildrye, Secar Snake River wheatgrass, and
Goldar bluebunch wheatgrass.
The forb/subshrub trial had poor emergence and consequently poor seedling densities
with the exception of Open Range Germplasm winterfat. The low densities were most
likely the result of the late spring planting that resulted in an insufficient period of cold-
moist stratification. An additional problem may have been sowing small-sized seed too
deeply. There was also heavy surface erosion on this portion of the trial site.
In the Seed Mixture Trials, the 'Experimental' mixes that contained native 'local source'
were far superior to the 'Developed' mixes that consisted of native 'nonlocal source'
(Upland mix) and introduced cultivars (Waste Management Areas). However, it was
estimated that the majority of plants in the Experimental mixtures, both Upland and
Waste Management Areas, were 9081620 slender wheatgrass, which was the best
overall performer on this particular site.
The tissue analyses show that the heavy metal concentrations in and on the plant tissue
sampled from the Stucky Ridge plots were generally within the tolerable limits for both
domestic livestock and wildlife.
The overall performance on the Stucky Ridge plots was quite variable, with strips
running north and south that had poorer plant vigor and biomass production. The Pryor
slender wheatgrass strips between replications (running east and west) exhibited waves
of good and poor establishment and performance. Soil samples (0-6 in.) were taken
under four plant stands of slender wheatgrass ranging from excellent to very poor in
hopes of explaining this variability. It was thought that the incorporation of the
amendments may have created strips with varying pH. Soil analysis for pH indicated no
difference in pH (all 6.8 to 7.3) under the varying stand of slender wheatgrass.
Therefore, this variability is still unexplained.
B-45
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Appendix B
REFERENCES
ARCO. 2002, May. Remedial action work plan/final design report, 2002 Stucky Ridge
RA (Portions of Stucky Ridge Area No. 4 RAWP) Uplands Revegetation.
Bahr, Autumn. 2003, February 18. Jordan contracting site report. Electronic (e-mail)
communication.
Baker, A.J.M. 1987. Metal tolerance. In: New Phytologist. (1987), 106 (Suppl.),
p. 93-111.
EPA. 1995a. Draft Statement of Work for the ARWW OU Feasibility Study.
Ford, Karl L. Risk management criteria for metals at BLM mining sites. U.S.
Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Technical Note 390
rev., December 1996.
Kabata-Pendias, A. and H. Pendias. 1992. Trace elements in soils and plants. CRC
Press, Boca Raton, FL 365 pp.
Marty, Leslie J. 2000, July. Development of acid/heavy metal-tolerant cultivars project
final report-July 1998 to July 2000. Pp 1-9.
Marty, Leslie J. 2001, October. Development of acid/heavy metal-tolerant cultivars
project bi-annual report-April 1, 2001, to September 30, 2001. Pp Appendix A.
National Weather Service. 2003. Missoula Weather Forecast Office. [Online].
Available: http//www.wrh.noaa.gov/Missoula. [accessed November 2003].
National Research Council. 1980. Mineral tolerance of domestic animals. National
Research Council, National Academy of Sciences, Washington D.C. 577 pp.
Reclamation Research Unit (RRU). 1993, October. Anaconda revegetation treatability
studies, phase I: literature review, reclamation assessments, and demonstration
site selection. Document No.: ASSS-ARTS-I-FR-R1-102293.
B-46
-------
Appendix B
IV. RELEASES
ffc
•
Opportunity germplasm big bluegrass
'
"
B-47
-------
Appendix B
PLANT RELEASES
The seed and plants that are available to reclamationists are usually cultivar (cultivated
varieties) releases from universities, USDA Plant Material Centers, USDA Agricultural
Research Service, or private plant breeders. To be released as a cultivar, the
germplasm must be extensively tested, reviewing primary traits through multiple
generations, and field testing to determine range of adaptability. This process takes at
least 10 years with herbaceous plant material and can take 20 or more years for woody
plants. Other sources of native plants are wildland collections and pre-damage plant
salvage.
In recent years, the demand for native, indigenous plant material has resulted in the
development of an alternate, quicker mechanism for the release of plant materials
known as Pre-Varietal Release. Through this process plant propagules can be released
to the commercial seed and nursery industries in a more timely manner, but at the
expense of extensive field testing. Germplasm is still managed through the Certified
seed agencies, maintaining the same quality, purity, and germination standards of
Cultivar releases. There are three categories of Pre-Varietal releases:
Source-Identified—With this classification, a person can locate and collect seed from a
specific native site and have the seed certified by source only. A representative from a
seed certification agency must inspect the collection site prior to harvest, documenting
the identity of the species, elevation, latitude/longitude, and associated species. The
collector can certify the seed as being from a particular source and of a standard
quality, and selling the seed directly to a customer. The collector can also take that
seed and establish seed production fields, raising up to two generations past the
original collection. This product must be included in a seed certification program to be
able to certify the seed as 'Source Identified' germplasm. Through this process, seed
can be certified the year of collection or in 2 years when the seed increase fields begin
to produce.
Selected—This category is for plant breeders who assemble and evaluate multiple
collections of a species, making a selection of the superior accession, or bulk or cross-
pollinate the superior accessions. This release process can take as few as 5 years, but
can claim only that one accession or bulk of accessions has been found to be superior
for the conditions under which it was tested. No field testing or the testing of progeny is
required.
Tested—If the progeny of a superior germplasm is tested to make sure that the desired
traits continue to manifest themselves in subsequent generations, the germplasm
qualifies to be released as a Tested germplasm. This process can take 6-8 years in
herbaceous plant material and considerably longer with woody plants. The only
difference between Tested and Cultivar releases is the extensive field testing of a
Cultivar.
B-48
-------
Appendix B
The Pre-Varietal release mechanism has been used extensively on native plant
materials that are not readily available on the commercial market, either from seed
growers, nurseries, or wildland collectors. Through this process native plant material
can be placed into the commercial seed and nursery industry sooner, but with limited
information on range of adaptation, ease of establishment in various climate and
edaphic conditions, and longevity.
DATR Project Releases
The Conservation Districts of Montana and Wyoming own the land and facilities at the
Bridger Plant Materials Center and lease to the USDA-Natural Resource Conservation
Service. The USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center has been in operation since 1959
and has established a cooperative relationship with the Agricultural Experiment Station
network of Montana State University-Bozeman (MSU) and the University of Wyoming-
Laramie (U of W). The Plant Materials Center has experience in the release of
conservation plants, both introduced and native, in cooperation with MSU and U of W.
Breeders and Foundation seed is produced at the Bridger PMC, making Foundation
seed available to the commercial seed industry for the production of Certified seed. In
the case of Pre-Varietal releases, the Bridger PMC produces d (Generation 1) seed for
distribution to growers who will produce 62 and Gs under the Certified Seed Program.
Once a release is made, the releasing agency is responsible for maintaining a supply of
d (Pre-Varietal release) or Foundation (Cultivar release) seed for as long as
seed/plants of the release are in demand.
The DATR (formerly DATC) project has identified numerous plants (grasses, forbs,
shrubs, and trees) that exhibit tolerance of acidic and metaliferous soil conditions and
have the potential for use by reclamationists in restoration efforts of severely impacted
sites. Thus far the DATR project has been instrumental in the release of germplasm of
four plants;
Washoe Selected germplasm basin wildrye (Leymus cinereus)
Old Works Source Identified germplasm fuzzy-tongue penstemon (Penstemon
erlantherus)
Prospectors Selected germplasm common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)
Copperhead Selected germplasm slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus)
Information brochures have been published on three releases and are distributed to
potential seed growers and potential seed-purchasing customers. The Copperhead
slender wheatgrass brochure has not been published but is being worked on. Gi
(Foundation quality) seed of Washoe basin wildrye has been distributed to two
commercial seed growers in Montana, and seed of Old Works fuzzy-tongue penstemon
has been distributed to one grower in Washington and one grower in Idaho. No
growers have yet shown interest in the production of Prospectors common snowberry.
During the winter of 2007 Opportunity Selected class germplasm big bluegrass
(9081633) will be submitted for release approval to the Variety Release Committee at
B-49
-------
Appendix B
Montana State University and the Pure Seed Committee at the University of Wyoming.
This accession of big bluegrass has performed exceptionally well on the amended
Stucky Ridge Trial site. If the release is successful d seed will be available to
commercial growers in the spring of 2008.
The DATR Project has established seed increase fields of all plant species that have
exhibited superior establishment and performance in field test plantings in the
Anaconda vicinity on smelter and mining-impacted sites. The USDA-NRCS Plant
Materials Center, in cooperation with the Deer Lodge Valley Conservation District, plans
to continue releasing superior plant materials that have exhibited tolerance of
acid/heavy metal-contaminated sites. Some of the potential releases are as follows:
9081968 western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii)
9081636 bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata)
9081628 Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymnoides)
9081632 silverleaf phacelia (Phacelia hastata)
9076274 woolly cinquefoil (Potentilla hippiana)
9081334 silver buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea)
9081638 Woods' rose (Rosa woodsii)
9081623 horizontal juniper (Juniperus horizontalis).
Plant material that is being considered for release in FY2008 is 9081636 bluebunch
wheatgrass. Other releases within the next three years include 9081968 western
wheatgrass, 9081632 silverleaf phacelia, and 9081334 silver buffaloberry.
B-50
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