This project would increase the diversity and abundance of forbs and invertebrates in riparian and transitional riparian/upland areas. Treatments would include physical manipulation through mowing, imprinting, or just interseeding to create an enhanced vegetative mosiac within riparian or transitional riparian areas lacking in vegetative species and structural diversity. Since there are a number of invasives/exotic plants in the area, the area will be treated before seeding to ensure the natives species have an advantage. Mechanical manipulation for seed bed preparation, seeding of native seeds and control of invasives/exotic plants will be handled through contracts. This project focuses on improving habitat for a diversity of species, particularly sage-grouse and other sensitive avian species such as Brewer's sparrow and sage thrasher. These species rely on riparian habitats for critical brood rearing requirements in the Sand Hills ACEC. This project will enhance the vegetative component which in turn would provide additional invertebrate food sources that would benefit sage-grouse and other riparian species that use these habitat types.
