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Reclaiming Open Space for prairie dogs and humans #745943

Asked April 23, 2021, 5:08 PM EDT

What type of native grasses can be grown on open space land at an altitude of approximately 5,600 feet that has no irrigation, regenerates each year, and feeds prairie dogs?

Jefferson County Colorado

Expert Response

Hello,

There are a variety of native grasses that can grow at your altitude withouth supplemental irrigation after establishment.  They are listed and described in this CSU publication on Native Grasses:  https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/581.pdf.

Seeds can be purchased from a number of companies - full list HERE.

You can choose individual species to plant, or you can plant a seed mix that has been selected based on habitat.  In nature, a diverse variety of grasses (or any plant) grow together.  Some examples:

Best regards,

Mari

Mari Hackbarth Replied April 30, 2021, 3:43 PM EDT
Thank you so much for getting back with me.  We will grow the grasses from seed over the summer and plant in the fall.  Once again, thank you!

Carol Gallagher Giuliani

On Fri, Apr 30, 2021 at 1:43 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied April 30, 2021, 5:03 PM EDT

Hi Carol,

I recommend direct seeding, since the grasses may not transplant well.  Direct seeding at this time of year is ideally done by May 1, but doable until June. Here is additional information from the Small Acreages Management department of CSU Extension:

Mari Hackbarth Replied April 30, 2021, 5:14 PM EDT

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