Restoration Recommendations for Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

Redente, Edward

Conclusion: Redente found no remnants of a native prairie on the upper terrace. Even areas that had not been cultivated were dominated by exotic grasses. There is some leafy spurge on site but it appears that the spraying program that has been implemented is controlling the spread of this species. Areas that have received some restoration activity need to be properly managed to control annuals and promote the establishment of native perennials. Once the native prairie is established on these sites then prescribed fire needs to be used to maintain the health of these communities. Since prairie species have evolved under both fire and herbivory, some grazing should be considered in the maintenance scheme. Those areas that are in need of restoration work will require plowing or herbicide control before native perennials are seeded. Since the collection of native seed within the boundaries of the historical site is not feasible because of the lack of seed sources, all seed that is used for restoration will come from commercial suppliers. Extreme care must be taken to asssure that the seed that is purchased is adapted to the soil and climatic conditions of the site. Specific varieties have been recommended for those species that have improved cultivars adapted to the conditions of Fort Union. If a variety is not recommended then every effort should be made to assure that the source of seed comes from soil and climatic conditions similar to Fort Union.