Squirreltail's [Elymus elymoides (Raf.) Swezey + Sitanion hystrix (Nutt.) J.G. Smith] ready germination, rapid reproductive maturity, capacity for cool-temperature growth, self-pollinated mating system, excellent seed dispersal mechanisms, fire tolerance, and genetic diversity make it a promising candidate for assisting ecological restoration of rangelands dominated by exotic weedy annual grasses such as medusahead wildrye [Taeniatherum caput-medusae (L.) Nevski] and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.). Squirreltail is a short-lived perennial and generally early seral in successional status. It comprises a complex of several subspecies whose ecological amplitudes are poorly understood. Wildfire or prescribed burning may provide opportunities for seeding squirreltail or augmenting existing populations. Grazing deferment is important for a successful transition from an annual to a perennial-dominated grassland. Reduction in frequency of annuals may facilitate natural or artificial establishment of desirable mid- or late-seral grasses, forbs, and shrubs. Currently, squirreltail seed supplies originate from wildland harvests. Reduced cost, dependable supply, and improved quality of seed will require development of efficient commercial seed production practices. Experience in restoration may reveal the suitability of squirreltail plant material for assisted succession as well as expose its weaknesses. Such information will allow researchers to improve plant materials and methods for increased future success. The Journal of Range Management archives are made available by the Society for Range Management and the University of Arizona Libraries. Contact lbry-journals@email.arizona.edu for further information. Migrated from OJS platform August 2020
Scholarly peer-reviewed articles published by the Society for Range Management. Access articles on a rolling-window basis from vol. 1, 1948 up to 5 years from the current year. Formerly Journal of Range Management (JRM). More recent content is available by subscription from SRM.