. dedicated to the appreciation and conservation Of the Colorado native flora”

Volume 22 Numbers November— December 1998

Strategic Planning

Eric Lane, CoNPS Board of Directors .

For much of the past year, the officers and
Board of Directors of the Colorado Native
Plant Society have struggled to identify how
best to gather, direct, and expend the
Society’s resources in order to carry out its
mission. Our Society has a broad mission,
\t one that is unique unto itself. For the
^dke of our members and the flor^ we cher-
ish, the leadership of the Society has
embarked upon a path to develop and
implement a strategic plan that will enable
the Society to pursue its mission in the most
efficient and effective way possible.

Our , Society has a broad
mission, but one that is unique
unto itself.

Six months ago, the Society hired
Conservation Impact, a small Colorado con-
sulting group that specializes in assisting
environmental organizations, to meet with a
randomly selected group of individuals
from each chapter in order to identify what
was on the minds of our Society’s members.
Will Murray and Shell! Bischoff also con-
ducted interviews with other Colorado orga-
nizations and agencies to identify where our
talents and collective voice could best be
applied. The information gathered through
this process has helped to form the founda-
tion of the Society’s strategic plan that will
uide our actions^nd efforts during the next
^^Wfve years. As outlined in our draft s^frategic
plan, the four primary goals we have devel-
oped thus far are:

Double membership by the 2001 annual
meeting. It is clear to the membership that
there are many Coloradoans that care for, or
are interested to learn more about
Colorado's spectacular native flora. It
behooves us to expand the membership to
attract and include these individuals not
only to help them gain a more sophisticated
appreciation for this flora, but also to help
conserve it. While the Society's member-
ship has grown in recent years, it has not
kept pace with the overall rate of Colorado's
population growth. Through more active
efforts and "advertising," the Society will
work to bring interested Coloradoan's into
the Society over the next three years.

Maintain and enhance the quality and
quantity of core membership services.

The Society would not exist without its
membership and the services it provides,
both tangible and intangible. To better serve
you, the Board and elected officers will
work to improve the reliability, quality, and

quantity of membership services including
Aquilegia, field trips, workshops. Annual
Meeting, and volunteef conservation activi-
ties. A significant portion of our member-
ship enjoys these services and we hope to
improve upon them.

Positively influence the protection and
management of at least ten sites that har-
bor rare species or exemplary natural
communities by January 1, 2001.

Conservation is one portion of the Society’s
mission for which there exists great poten-
tial. In the next few years, the Society aims
to provide its members, especially the chap-
ters, with unique partiiership opportunities
to help protect and manage Colorado's spe-
cial flora. Such opportunities may take the
form of floiistic surveys, weed-pulls, or any
number of active efforts on behalf of our
state's native plants and plant communities.
Our potential partners are innumerable; they
include local offices of state and federal
land management agencies, as well as local

“Planning" continues on page 2

About the Society . . ,

Contents

. . . . . . .2

Announcements . . .

8, 11

Articles

. . . . .1-2, 3, 6-8, 11

Calendar

.12

Chapter News

.............. .5

For Your Library . . . .

. . . . .9-10

Workshops

. . . .4

Page 2

“Planning" continued from page 1

chapters of other like-minded education arid
conservation organizations.

Undertake at least four educational
opportunities that reach 500 non-mem-
bers each year. There are many
Coloradoans who do not recognize the
importance or value of Colorado’s native
flora. Through the development of educa-
tional materials and presentations, we hope
to educate specific audiences about
Colorado's flora so that they can make bet-
ter decisions about the actions that may pos-
itively or negatively affect our state's plants.
Audiences may include environmental
organizations, gardeners and their suppliers,

Aquilegia

K- 12 students, biology and other science
teachers, and land management agencies.

We hope that this plan will help to assure
that the Society's limited resources are max-
imized to achieve our goals, and address the
needs and desires of our members. While
this draft plan has not been formally adopt-
ed, time to comment on it is short. As
emphasized at our Annual Meeting, the
Society needs your input to make this plan
the best that it can be. Please contact your
local Chapter President, Society Officers, or
any of the Directors. We will also need your
help to reach the goals set in our ambitibus
new plan. Future issues of Aquilegia will let
you know how you can help. We hope that

Vol. 22 No. 6

many of the ideas and thoughts expressed in
this draft plan ring true in the minds an^
hearts of our members. Let us know wb'^.*
you think. Hope to hear from you soon!

A note of appreciation and thanks from the
Board and Officers of the Society to Alice
Guthrie, Bob Clarke;,^^ Carolyn Crawford,
Sandy Friedley, Jill Handwerk, Denise
Larson, and Gretchen Van Reyper. Each did
a fantastic job organizing focus groups
around the State. Also, a Special thank you
to all the members who volunteered their
time to participate in the focus groups for
the Society's strategic planning efforts. Your
efforts have helped to lay the foundation for
the Society's work for years to come!

Colorado Native
Plant Society

The Colorado Native Plant Society is a npn-
profit organization dedicated to the apprecia-..
tion and conservation of the Colorado native
flora. Membership is open to all with an inter-
est in our native plants, and is composed of
plant enthusiasts both professional and non-
professional.

Please join us in helping to encourage interest
in enjoying and protecting Colorado's native
plants. The Society sponsors field trips, work-
shops, and other activities through local chap-
ters and statewide. Contact the Society, a chap-
ter representative, or committee thair for more
information.

Schedule of Membership Fees

Life .^ $250

Supporting , .$50

Organization .$30

Family or Dual $15

Individual .$12

Student or Senior . .$8

Membership Renewal/Information

Please direct all membership applications,
renewals, and address changes to the
Membership Chairperson, Colorado Native
Plant Society, P.O. Box 200, Fort Collins, CO
80522. Please direct all other inquiries regarding
the Society to the Secretary at the same address.

Aquilegia is published four to six times per
year by the Colorado Native Plant Society.
This newsletter is available to members of the
Society and to others with an interest in native
plants. Contact the Society for subscription
information. Articles for Aquilegia may be
used by other native plant societies or non-
profit groups if fully cited to author and attrib-
uted to Aquilegia.

Please direct all contributions to the newsletter to:

Leo P. Bruederle
Biology, Campus Box 171
University of Colorado at Denver
P.O. Box 173364
Denver, CO 80217-3364
E-Mail: Ibrueder @ carbon.cudenver.edu

Short items such as unusual information about
a plant, a little known botanical term, etc., are
especially welcome. Previously published arti-
cles submitted for reprinting require permis-
sion. Camera-ready line art or other illustra-
tions are also solicited.

Please include author's name and address,
although anonymity may be requested. Articles
submitted via e-mail or on disks (MAC prefer-
ably, or IBM) are appreciated. Please indicate
word processing software and version.

Officers

President Jeff Dawson. , . . 303-722-6758

Vice-President . . . Jill Handwerk . . 970-221-3460

Secretary Alice Guthrie. . . 303-651-3127

Treasurer Denise Culver . . 970-225-1930

Board of Directors

Bill Jennings (99) .... Louisville . . 303-666-8348

Andy Kratz (99) Lakewood. . 303-914-8291

Eric Lane (99). Lakewood. . 303-239-4182

Paula Lehr (99) Gunnison . . 970-641-0671

Don Parker (99) ..... Golden . . . . 3Q3-279-4549

Gay Austin (00) Gunnison . . 970-641-6264

Leo Bruederle (00) . . . Denver .... 303-556-3419

Jeff Dawson (00) Denver .... 303-722-6758

Christine Leahy (00) . . Golden .... 303-425-1227
Peggy Lyon (00) . . . . Ridgway . . . 970-626-319'
Susan Spackman (00) . Loveland . . 970-667-286>^/^

Chapter Presidents

Boulder Carolyn Crawford 303-666-8348

Metro-Denver . . Denise Larson . . . 303-733-4338
Fort Collins .... Don Hazlett . . . . . 970-834-1493

Yamparika . .
Plateau

Southwest

.. . Reed Kelley 970-878-4666

. . Gretchen

. . Van Reyper 970-835-3268

. .-Sandy Friedley. . .970-884-9245

Committees

Communications . . Leo P. Bruederle303-556-
and . . Jeff Dawson . . 303-722-

Conservation Bob Clarke. . . . 970-242-

EduCation Rob Reinsvold . 970-351-

and . . Joyce Gellhom 303-442-

Field Trips . Rick Brune. . . . 303-238-

Field Studies ' . . . . Loraine Yeatts . 303-279-
Hort/Restoration . . Lisa Tasker. . . . 303-447-
Legislative Affairs . VACANT
Membership. . . . . . Myma Steinkamp

and . . Sue Martin . . . 970-226

Publications Rick Brune. . . . 303-238

and.. Velma Richards 303-794

Publicity , . . . VACANT

Rare Plant ; Eleanor

Monograph . Von Barren . . . 303-756

Workshops. .... . . Bill Jennings . . 303-666

3419

6758

6067

2716

-8123

-5078

-3427

■9431

3371

5078

5432

140 ^'
834 ^^

Aquilegia

Vol. 22 No. 6

Page 3

1998 CoNPS Annual Meeting: Sagebrush Ecosystems

Alice Guthrie, CoNPS Secretary

The 1998 Annual Meeting was held austin_gay/r2_gmug@fs.fed.us.

Clematis alpina
Artist: Nicola Ripley

September 19-20, at the Aspinall-
Wilson Center on the campus of
Western State College in Gunnison.
What a great facility for a meeting
like ours! We had plenty of room
for coffee and bagels, book sales,
educational displays, and t-shirt
sales (one of the most popular
tables), as well as a meeting room well-suited for the speakers.
There were over 120 members and/or guests at this meeting —
clearly a success! Gay Austin and Paula Lehr did an excellent
job planning and organizing the meeting. The Board would like
to recognize all of their hard work over the past year. Tony Hoag
(along with his son Jasper) was the moderator for the sessions
on Saturday. Thank you, Tony, for keeping us on track. Sheila
Thompson organized a Plant Identification Contest aiong a trail
just up the hill from the Center. It provided an incentive to get
outside, enjoy the sunshine, and try our hand at identifying the
local flora. The winner of the Professional Division was Steven
Wenger; Jeanne Wenger won the Amateur Division. Plant prizes
were donated by Gary Ludwig (Pleasant Avenue Nursery).

Congratulations to newly elected or re-elected Board Members
Leo Bruederle, Jeff Dawson, Christine Leahy, Susan Spackman,
and co-directors Gay Austin and Peggy Lyon, the first time a
directorship has been shared. Their two-year term will end in
2000. Dr. Janet Wingate of the Denver Botanic Garden was pre-
sented with a Lifetime Membership Award. She received a cer-
tificate with original artwork by C^olyn Crawford and a horse
blanket, proving that she doesn’J spend all of her time looking
at plants! CoNPS has certainly benefited from her leadership,
expertise, and hard work over the years. An update on the
Strategic Planning process was given by Eric Lane (Director,
1999). He explained the process that was followed by the Board
and summarized progress to date. Much work remains in order
to finalize a realistic work plan and accomplish bur goals. A
handout was made available that listed goals and objectives
developed at the August planning session. Contact any Board
member or your Chapter President for a copy. The Board will
continue to have articles in Aquilegia as we complete our plans.

The Keynote Address was given by Dr. E. Durant McArthur,
from the Shrub Sciences Laboratory, USES, Provo, Utah. He
has worked extensively on Artemisia, focusing his talk on sub-
genus Tridentata. He presented considerable information on the
genetics of Artemisia, as well as the habitats of several sub-
species. He also discussed hybridization and the Hybrid Zone
Theory Hypothesis, which states that hybrids between species
are narrowly adapted, but successful in dynamic habitats or
zones. It appears that this is a mechanism allowing Artemisia to
adapt to changing climatic conditions over time. Copies of Dr.
McArthur’s slides and tables are available from Gay Austin at
970-641-0471 (W), 970-641-6264 (H), or e-mail at

Kathy Warren next presented some lovely slides of common and
uncommon wildflowers of tfie sagebrush, and shared details
about the medicinal uses of some of them; Sandy Hayes, an
ecologist with the BLM, presented information about the
Gunnison sagegrouse, including habitat requirements, current
and historical ranges, population densities, and current threats to
the birds and their habitat. The Gunnison sagegrouse is recog-
nized as a subspecies distinct from the sagegrouse that is com-
mon in North and Middle Parks. It is dependent on big sage-
brush, with the amount of exposed vegetation over the winter
particularly important for its survival.

Dr. Roger Rosentreter spoke about the role of microbiotic soil
crusts in sagebrush ecosystems. He .provided background infor-
mation for those who did not attend the workshop preceding the
meeting. He explained that microbiotic crusts are composed of
cyanobacteria, mosses and lichens. He discussed their func-
tions, the different morphological types (structure), and the ben-
efits they provide, such as retaining moisture, capturing wind-
blown soil, and increasing biodiversity.

Rare and endangered species of the sagebrush community were
discussed by Susan Spackman, Colorado Natural Heritage
Program botanist. She emphasized eight plant species: three
species of Astragalus, three Penstemon species, Cirsium per-
plexum, and Lesquerella viscina\ but also noted that there are
threats to the sage sparrow, as well as some bat and insect
species. Creating and restoring landscapes with native species
were discussed by Gretchen Van Reyper and Dr. David Buckner..
Gretchen gave an informative talk about landscaping with
native plants and provided good sources of seed and plant mate-
rial. David discussed the problems associated with re-establish-
ing sagebrush and how to overcome them, including some prac-
tical applications. Seedling sagebrush does not compete well
with grasses, as sagebrush seedlings are less vigorous than grass
seedlings. In a discussion of the paleoecology of the Basin
going back approximately 10,000 years, the final speaker of the
day. Dr. Steve Emslie provided an excellent overview of the cli-
matic conditions of Gunnison Basin. Much of his data have
come from caves and packrat middens. Although a few young
pinyon trees have been found, evidence exists that indicates
pinyon-juniper has been absent for about 3,000 years ago.

All attendees had a chance to learn more about sagebrush
ecosystems — starting with Friday’s field trip on microbiotic
crusts; continuing with the lectures on Saturday; and ending on
Sunday with the sagebrush identification workshop and visits to
a sagegrouse lek, as well as histodc and archaic settlement sites.
The Annual Meeting was filled with diverse activities and inter-
esting topics, all related to sagebrush communities. Thanks
again to the Plateau Chapter for hosting such an educational and
inspiring meeting!

Page 4

Aquilegia

Vol. 22 No. 6

1 998-1 999 CoNPS WORKSHOPS

THE POACEAE: HOW TO KNOW THE TRIBES
IN THE GRASS FAMILY

Leader: Dr. David Buckner
Location: Foothills Nature Center, Boulder
First session: Saturday, December 5, 1998
Second session: Sunday, December 6, 1998

someday be relocated within Colorado. Susan and her associate^^
at the Colorado Natural Heritage Program will make available for
us an abstract of each of these species, along with herbarium spec-
imens of the species, if available. Information on many of these
species is presented in the Colorado Rare Plant Field Guide, pub-
lished by the Heritage Program or is presented in Rare Plants of
Colorado, published by the Native Plant Society.

In this workshop, Dave will discuss the structure of various nat-
ural groups within the grass family and how they can be identi-
fied. The grass family is so large that, without some understand-
ing of the tribes within the family, identification of an individual
grass becomes a formidable challenge. Keys to the tribes and gen-
era wilf be available as handouts. Specimens of many grasses will
be available for study. Every Colorado botanist should have a
working knowledge of the grass family. Come and refine your
grass identification skills.

CHENOPODIACEAE:

THE GOOSEFOOT FAMILY

Leader: Dr. Hugh Wilson
Location: University of Colorado, Boulder
First session: Saturday, January 16, 1999
Second session: Sunday, January 17, 1999

The Colorado Native Plant Society's first out-of-state workshop
leader is Dr. Hugh Wilson of Texas A&M University. Dr. Wilson
co-wrote the treatment of genus Chenopodium for the Flora of the
Great Plains. In this workshop, we will cover most of the genera
that occur in Colorado east of the Continental Divide, focusing
particularly on the species that occur on the plains. There are a
large number of representatives of the Chenopodiaceae in
Colorado, but they are not often collected because they are
"weedy" and do not usually produce attractive flowers. Closely
related species are sometimes separated on technical characters,
making identification difficult. Nevertheless, this is a very impor-
tant family in the Colorado flora. In addition to the workshop, Dr.
Wilson will present a program for the CoNPS Boulder Chapter on
Thursday, January 14, at Foothills Nature Center.

COLORADO'S Missing flora

\ Leader: Susan Spackman

Location: Foothills Nature Center, Boulder
First session: Saturday, February 13, 1999
Second session: Sunday, February 14, 1999

The title of this workshop refers to those species that are thought
to be extinct, thought to be extirpated (but still extant outside
Colorado), or collected once or twice and never seen again with-
in the State. This workshop will focus on making these species
better known to the botanical public in hope that these plants may

POLEMONIACEAE OF COLORADO

Leader: Dr. J. Mark Porter
Location: University of Colorado, Boulder
First session: Saturday March 6, 1999
Second session: Sunday March 7, 1999 ,

Our second out-of-state workshop workshop leader is Dr. J. Mark
Porter of Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens located in
Claremont, California. He has been actively involved in the devel-
opment of the new San Juan Basin Flora, as well as study of the
Polemoniaceae of the Four Corners area. Participants on the May
16, 1998, field trip to the Four Corners area may remember M^k
as one of the co-leaders. He has some exciting new ideas about the
Polemoniaceae and will bring us up to date on the recent research
into this complex and confusing family. When is a Gilia not a
Giliai When it's an Alicella, a new genus proposed by Dr. Porte"

BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION:

FIELD SKETCHING

Leader: Carolyn Crawford
Location: Foothills Nature Center, Boulder
First session: Saturday, April 17, 1999
Second session: Sunday, April 18, 1999

This is a much requested workshop topic. Well-known botanical
artist Carolyn Crawford will present the techniques she uses for
on-the-spot illustration of plants arid plant parts. Topica to be cov-
ered include the use of colored pencils, a good dry medium for use
in the field. Pen-and-ink and traditional watercolors do not work
well in the sun and wind. There will be ample plant and flowef
material available for participants to work with. There is no bet
way to really see and know a flower than to draw its parts. Ev^
if you never intend to illustrate commercially, drawing for enjoy-
ment or for your own records is a good aid in flower identification.

Voi. 22 No. 6

Aquilegia

Page 5

CHAPTER NEWS

''W'" ■■ —

Boulder Chapter

Monthly meetings are held through May
on the second Thursday of each month at
the Foothills Nature Center located in
Boulder on North Broadway opposite its
intersection with Sumac. For more infor-
mation, contact Carolyn Crawford or Bill
Jennings at (303) 665-6903 or (303) 666-8348.

November 12, 7:30 PM
Rocky Mountain Floristic Inventories
Dr. Ron Hartman (Rocky Mountain
Herbarium, Department of Botany,
University of Wyoming) will deliver a talk
and slide show focusing on systematic
floristic inventories carried out by the
Rocky Mountain Herbarium with particu-
lar emphasis on the Flora of the Rocky
Mountains project. NOTE: This meeting
will be held at Iris Center, 3198 North
Broadway in Boulder, located about 11
blocks south of Foothills Nature Center,

Pedicularis groenlandica
Artist: Kris Miering

December 10, 7:30 PM
Sand Sage Prairies

Chris Pague (Land Steward, CO Nature
Conservancy) will show in this slide pre-
sentation why the sand sage prairie is a sig-
nificant and important part of Colorado’s
prairie landscape. See the results of recent
studies to identify these areas, and become
familiar with this community, its distribu-
tion, and conservation status.

January 14, 7:30 PM
Goosefoots of the Plains
Dr. Hugh Wilson (Department of Biology,
Texas A&M University) will present a pro-
gram on the goosefoots (Chenopodiaceae)
of the Plains. He is co-author of the
Chenopodium treatment in Flora of the
Great Plains, and will be later presenting a
workshop on the same topic. Come see this
presentation on this large and difficult fam-
ily as a preview to the workshop.

Fort Collins Chapter

Monthly meetings convening in the con-
ference room at the USDA National Seed
Storage Laboratory have been scheduled
for November 3 and December 1 . For addi-
tional information call Don Hazlett at
(970) 834-1493.

November 3, 7:00 pm

Corylus (hazelnut) Taxonomy and

Distribution

Ixchell Whitcher (Department of Biology,
Colorado State University) will be dis-
cussing the taxonomy and distribution of
the genus Corylus.

December 1, 7:00 pm

Araliaceae Taxonomy, Distribution, and

Disjunct Taxa

Dr. Jun Wen (CSU Herbarium,
Department of Biology, Colorado State
University) will be discussing her research
on disjunct distributions of taxa in the
Araliaceae, as well as other plant families.

Plateau Chapter

Please contact Gretchen Van Reyper at (970)
835-3268 for Plateau Chapter activities.

Metro-Denver Chapter

I

Monthly meetings are held in the Morrison
Center at the Denver Botanic Garden. For
additional information, contact Denise
Larson at (303) 733-4338.

December 8, 7:30 pm
South Table Mesa

Loraine Yeatts will be delivering a pre-
sentation on this fascinating landform.

Southwest Chapter

Please contact Sandy Friedley at (970)
884-9245 for Southwest Chapter news and
activities.

Yamparika Chapter

Please contact Reed Kelley at (970) 878-
4666 for Yamparika Cha|>ter news and
activities.

Page 6 Aquilegia Vol. 22 No. 6

Long-term harmful effects of crested wheatgrass
on Great Plains grassland ecosystems

Peter Lesica and Thomas H. DeLuca ^

Invasions by exotic plants are occurring at
an increasing rate and are considered a
serious threat to both agricultural systems
as well as native communities (Drake et al.
1989). Many of the most harmful exotics
in North America were introduced inten-
tionally (Ruesink et al. 1995, Williams
1 980). Exotic plants such as tamarisk
{Tamarix spp.), Russian olive {Elaeagnus
angiistifolia), purple loosestrife {Lythrum
salicaria), African lovegrasses {Eragrostis
lehmanniana, E. curvula) and smooth
bromegrass {Bromus inermis) were origi-
nally brought to North America for agri-
cultural or horticultural purposes but have
displaced native species and threaten bio-
logical diversity of native communities
(Malecki et al. 1993; Robinson 1965;
Romo and Grilz 1990; Bock et al. 1986;
Shafroth et al. 1995).

Many Eurasian grasses have been inten-
tionally introduced throughout temperate
North America, primarily for hay and pas-
ture. The most commonly planted exotic
grass in western North America is crested
wheatgrass {Agropyron cristatum, A.
desertorum). There are between 15 and 26
million acres of crested wheatgrass on this
continent (Holchek 1981; Rogler and
Lorenz 1983). The conversion of native
prairie to crested wheatgrass primarily
occurred after the drought of the late 1920s
and 1930s when large areas of marginal
cropland were abandoned and then seeded
with non-native grasses to reduce soil ero-
sion potential (Lorenz 1986). Today, crest-
ed wheatgrass continpes to be planted over
large areas of the Northern Great Plains,
Since 1985 several million acres of crested
wheatgrass have been planted on idled
cropland as part of the Conservation
Reserve Program.

There are many reasons for the popularity
of crested wheatgrass. It is tolerant of cold
and drought and suited to most soils
(Knowles and Buglass 1980). Crested
wheatgrass establishes easily from seed,
responds well to fertilizer (Box 1986) and
has high nutritive value (Box 1986). It gen-
erally yields better than native grasses of
the Great Plains (Dormaar et al. 1978:
1995; Smoliak and Dormaar 1985;

McWilliams and VanCleave 1960), and
usually provides greater livestock weight
gains (Smoliak 1968; Hofmann et al.
1993). Seeded stands of crested wheat-
grass resist invasion by weeds (Knowles
and Buglass 1980). The advantages of
crested wheatgrass are obvipus, and it is
not uncommon for livestock managers to
break native prairie in order to plant it.

Although crested wheatgrass is generally
considered a beneficial introduction, there
are several, often overlooked factors that
do not have immediate economic impact
but may create a significant long-term
decline in biological diversity and soil
resource sustainability. Few people who
have walked through crested wheatgrass
stands can deny that they have far lower
plant species diversity compared to native
mid-grass prairie {Dormaar et al. 1978).
Crested wheatgrass is a strong competitor
(Box 1986). It takes up phosphorus, espe-
cially from areas of enrichment, faster than
native species (Black et al. 1994; Caldwell
et al. 1985), and its seedlings are better
than native species at sequestering mois-
ture at low temperatures (Harris and
Wilson 1970). As a result, few native
plants are able to invade crested wheat-
grass plantings (Looman and Heinrichs
1973; McHenry and Newell 1947; Wilson
1989) resulting in a virtual monoculture
for at least 40-50 years (Anderson and
Marlette 1986; Box 1986; Smoliak et al.
1967). The paucity of plant diversity in
crested wheatgrass pastures undoubtedly
results in lower diversity of invertebrate
and vertebrate animals as well, although
data documenting this effect on the Great
Plains appear to be nonexistent.

Monocultures of crested wheatgrass have
promoted population explosions of insect
herbivores that generally remain at lower
levels in multi-species communities
(Lattin et al. 1994). These outbreaks have
resulted in losses of graminoid productivi-
ty and the use of expensive pesticides.

Several studies suggest that there may be a
long-term negative impact of crested
wheatgrass stands on soil. The strong com-
petitive ability of crested wheatgrass cre-

ates a ground layer with more exposed soil
than in native mid-grass prairie (Wilson
1989), as much as ten times more in some
cases (Dormaar et al. 1995). Grasslands
with more exposed soil experience higher
rates of erosion (Dormaar et al. 1995;
McWilliams and VanCleave 1960).

Less evident and perhaps more serious
than increased wind and water erosion is
the possibility that stands of crested wheat-
grass cannot maintain biochemical soil
quality as effectively as native grasslands
(Dormaar et al. 1995). High soil quality is
defined by sustainability of microbial
activity and diversity, efficient cycling of
nutrients, and proliferation and function of
roots of desirable plant species. It usually
is measured by variables such as aggregate
stability, bulk density, pH, soil organic
matter, microbial biomass, and enzyme
activity (Gregorich et al. 1994). Although
crested wheatgrass has much higher
above-ground productivity compared to
midgrass prairie dominated by blue gram;^^^
{Bouteloua gracilis), needle-and-thread^^
{Stipa comata), and wbstern wheatgrass
(Agrdpyroh smithii), below-ground bio-
mass in the surface horizons is significant-
ly lower (Dormaanet al. 1995; Reden te et
al. 1989; Smoliak and "Dormaar 1985;
Smoliak et al. 1967). This lower below-
ground biomass in crested wheatgrass
reflects a reduction in both root detritus
and root exudates that would otherwise be
available for microbial use in the forma-
tion of soil organic matter.

Below-ground biomass upder stands of
crested wheatgrass has a higher carbon to
nitrogen ratio than native grass species and
only supplies about half as much organic N
to soil (Biondini et al. 1988; Klein et al.
1987; 1988; Redente et al. 1989). The
smaller quantity and lower quality of
organic matter in the upper soil horizons
under stands of crested wheatgrass result
in a lower energy input to these soils com-
pared to native range (Dormaar et al. 1978)
anc^ alter physical and biochemical
processes in soil. Stands of crested wheat^^.
grass are associated with higher bulk den-
sity, fewer water stable, aggregates, and
“Wheatgrass ” continues on page 7

Vol. 22 No. 6

Aquilegia

Page 7

lower levels of organic matter and nitrogen
compared to native grasses (Biondini et al.
1988; Dormaar et al. 1978; 1995;

\^v^McHenry and Newell 1947; Redente et al,
1989; Smoliak et al. 1967). Crested wheat-
grass provides the soil with a relatively
high concentration of carbohydrates and
little organic nitrogen (Klein et al. 1988).
This combination likely results in
increased mineralization of soil organic
nitrogen (i,e., the so-called “priming
effect”) as quantities of readily degraded
carbohydrates in the presence of limited
nitrogen often result in a net demand on
soil organic nitrogen (DeLuca and Keeney
1993; Jansson and Persson 1982; Mortensen
1 963). It has been suggested that these alter-
ations to soil quality may prevent native
species from invading the crested wheat-
grass monocultures (Klein et al. 1988).

Crested wheatgrass appears to influence
soil quality in a manner similar to that of
row crop systems. Crop species generally
have limited root mass, provide soil with
limited quantities of organic nitrogen, pro-
vide organic matter primarily in the fono
of carbohydrates (cellulosic crop residues),
and result in a significant decline in soil
K^^^rganic matter quality (DeCuca and
Keeney 1994). In the casp of croppii^g sys-
tems much of the organic nitrogen is
removed in the form of harvested grain.
For crested wheatgrass stands, some of the
humic nitrogen is converted to animal pro-
tein, but likely a great deal is lost to the
atmosphere through volatilization of urine
and senescing vegetation (Schimel et al. 1986).

We presently lack the knowledge to deter-
mine the long-term effects of crested
wheatgrass on the Great Plains. However,
there is a growing body of knowledge that
suggests that crested wheatgrass alters the
environment in tnany undesirable ways.
Further research of the changes in soils and
plant and animal diversity associated with
crested wheatgrass are needed to assess its
impact. Nonetheless, the continued con-
version Of native prairie and planting of
crested wheatgrass or other exotic species
seems ill advised.

REFERENCES CITED

A.nderson, J.E., and G.M. Marlette. 1986.

Probabilities of seedling recruitment and

the stability of crested wheatgrass stands.

In; K.L. Johnson (ed.), Crested wheat-

grass: Its values, problems and myths.
Symposium proceedings. Utah State
University, Logan, pp. 97-105.

Biondini, M., D.A. Klein, and E.F.
Redente. 1988. Carbon and nitrogen
losses through root exudation by
Agropyron spicatum, A. smithii and
Bouteloua gracilis. Soil Biol. Biochem.
20: 477-482.

Black, R.A., J.H. Richards, and J.H.
Manwaring. 1994. Nutrient uptake from
enriched soil microsites by three Great
Basin perennials. Ecology 75: 1 10-122.

Bock, C.E., J.H. Bock, K.L. Jepson, and
J.C. Ortega. 1986. Ecological effects of
planting African love grasses in Arizona.
Nat. Geogr. Res. 2: 456-463.

Box, T.W. 1986. Crested wheatgrass: Its
values, problems and myths; where now?
In: K.L. Johnson (ed.), Crested wheat-
grass: Its values, problems and myths.
Symposium proceedings. Utah State
University, Logan, pp. 343-345.

Caldwell, M.M. D.M. Eissenstat, J.H.
Richards, and M.F. Allen. 1985.
Competition for phosphorus: Differential
uptake from dual-isotope-labeled soil
interspaces between shrub and grass.
Science 229-. 384-386.

DeLuca, T.H., and D.R. Keeney. 1993.
Glucose induced nitrate assimilation in
prairie and cultivated soils. Biogeochem:
21:167-176.

DeLuca, T.H., and D.R. Keeney. 1994.
Soluble carbon and nitrogen pools of
prairie and cultivated soils: Seasonal
variation. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 58: 835-
840.

Dormaar, J.F., A. Johnston, and S.
Smoliak. 1978. Long-term soil changes
associated with seeded stands of crested
wheatgrass in southeastern Alberta,
Canada. In D.N. Hyder (ed.).
Proceedings /cf the first International
Rangeland Congress. Society for Range
Management, Denver, CO. pp. 623-625.

Dormaar, J.F., M.A. Naeth, W.D. Willms,
and D.S. Chanasyk. 1995. Effect of
native prairie, crested wheatgrass
(Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn.) and
Russian wildrye (Elymus junceus Fisch.)
on soil chemical properties. J. Range
Mauage. 48: 258-263.

Drake, J.A., H.A. Mooney, F. di Castri,
R.H. Groves, F.J. Kruger, M. Rejmanek,
and M. Williamson (eds.). 1989.

Biological invasions: A global perspec-
tive. Wiley, Chichester, England.

Gregorich, G.G., M.R. Carter, D.A.
Angers, C.M. Monreal, and B.H. Elbert.
1994. Towards a minimum data set to
assess soil organic matter quality in agri-
cultural soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 74: 367-
385.

Harris, G.A., and A.M. Wilson.
Cornpetition for moisture among
seedlings of annual and perennial grasses
as influenced by root elongation at low
temperature. Ecology 51: 530-534.

Hofmann, L., R.L. Ries, J.F. Karn, and
A.B. Frank. 1993. Comparison of seeded
and native pastures grazed from mid-
May through September. J. Range
Manage. 46: 251-254.

Holchek, J.L. 1981. Crested wheatgrass.
Rangelands 3: 237-250.

Jansson, S.L., and J. Persson. 1982.
Mineralization and immobilization of
soil nitrogen. In: F.J. Stevenson (ed.),
Nitrogen in agricultural soils. American
Society of \Agronomy, Madison,
Wisconsin. Vol. 22 pp. 229-252.

Klein, D.A., B,A. Frederick, W.C.
Metzger, E.F. Redente, and M.J. Trlica.
1987. Comparative soil microbial struc-
tural-functional relationships of intro-
duced crested wheatgrass and native
prairie communities. Pages L-2-1 to L-2-
5. In; F.F. Munshower, S E. Fisher, and
RE. Parady (eds.), Fourth biennial sym-
posium on surface mining and reclama-
tion on the Great Plains. Montana State
University Research Unit Report 8704, _
Billings.

Klein, D.A., B.A, Frederick, M. Biondini,
and M.J. Trilica. 1988. Rhizosphere
microorganism effects on soluble amino
acids, sugars and organic acids in the
root zone of Agropyron cristatum, A.
smithii and Bouteloua gracilis. Plant
110: 19-25.

Knowles, R.P., and E. Buglass. 1980.
Crested wheatgrass. Agriculture Canada
Publication 1295, Ottawa.

Lattin, J.D., A. Christie, and M.D.
Schv/artz. 1994. The impact of non-
indigenous crested wheatgrass on native
black grass bugs in North America: A
case for ecosystem management. Natural
Areas J. 14: l36-m.

Looman, J., and D.H. Hendrichs. 1973.
Stability of crested 3vheatgrass pastures
under long-term pasture use. Can. J. .
Plant Sci. 53: 501-506.

Lorenz, R.J. 1986. Introduction and early
“Wheatgrass ” continues on page 8

Aquilegia

Page 8

Vol. 22 No. 6

use of crested wheatgrass in the Northern
Great Plains. In: K.L. Johnson (ed.).
Crested wheatgrass: Its values, problems
and myths. Symposium proceedings.
Utah State University, Logan, pp. 9-19.

Malecki, R.A., B. Blossey, S.D. Hight, D.
Schrohder, L.T. Kok, and J.R. Coulson,
1993. Biological control of purple
loosestrife. BioScie/rce 43: 680-686.^

McHenry, J.R., and L.C. Newell. 1947.
Influence of some perennial grasses on
the organic matter content and structure
of an eastern Nebraska fine-textured soil.
J. Am. Soc. Agron. 39: 981-994.

McWilliams, J.L., and P.E. VanCleave,
1960. A comparison of crested wheat-
grass and native grass mixtures seeded
on rangeland in eastern Montana. J.
Range Manage. 13: 9 U94.

Mortensen, J. L. 1963. Decomposition of
organic matter and rtiineralization of
nitrogen in Brookston silt loam and alfal-
fa green manure. Plant Soil 19: 374-384.

Redente, E.F., M.E. Biondini, and J. C.

■ , I

Moore. 1989. Observations on biomass
dynamics of a crested wheatgrass and
native shortgrass ecosystem in southern
Wyoming. J. Range Manage. 42: 113-
118.

Robinson, T.W. 1965. Introduction,
spread, and areal extent of saltcedar
(Tamarix) in the western states: U.S.
Geological Survey Professional Paper

491-A, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C.

Rogler, G.A., and R.J. Lorenz. 1983.
Crested wheatgrass-early history in the
United States. J. Range Mange. 36: 91-

Romo, J.T., and P.L. Grilz. 1990. Invasion
of the Canadian prairies by an exotic
perennial. R/we Vrzy 48: 130-135.

Ruesink, J.L., I.M. Parker, M.J, Groom,
and PM. Kareiva. 1995. Reducing the
risks of nonindigenous species introduc-
tions. BioScience 45: 465-477.

Schimel, D.S., W.J. Parton, F.J. Adamsen,
R.G. Woodmansee, R.L. Senft, and M.A.
Stillwell. 1986. The role of cattle in the

volatile loss of nitrogen from a short-
grass siQppe. Biogeochem. 2: 39-52.

Shafroth, P.B., G.T. Auble, and M.L. Scott.
1995. Germination and establishment
the native plains cottonwood (Populus
deltoides Marshall subsp. monilifera)
and the exotic Russian-olive {Elaeagnus
angustifolia L.) Conserv. Biol. 9: 1169-
1175.

Smoliak, S., A. Johnston, and L.E.
Lutwick. 1967. Productivity and durabil-
ity of crested wheatgrass in southeastern
Alberta. Can. J. Plant Sci. Al\ 539-548.
Smoliak, S., and J.E. Dormaar. 1985.
Productivity of Russian wildrye and
crested wheatgrass and their effects on
prairie soils. J. Range Manage. 38: 403-
405.

Williams, M.C. 1980. Purposefully intro-
duced plants that have become noxious
or poisonous weeds. Weed Sci. 2^: 300-
30b.

Wilson, S.D. 1989. The suppression of
native prairie by alien species introduced
for re vegetation. Landscape Urban
Plann. 17: 113-119.

NOTE: This article waS cominunicated by
Bob Clark (Chair, Conservation ,
Committee, CoNPS). Reprinted from the"^^
September-October issue of the Journal of
Soil and Water Conservation with the per-
mission of the Assistant Editor.

The John W. Marr Fund; An endowment for the
support of small grants for research

On March 24, 1990, the Board of Directors of the Colorado
Native Plant Society established the John W. Marr Fund for the
occasional award of small grants in support of research in plant
biology. The Fund honors the late Dr. John Marr, Professor at the
University of Colorado and the first President of the Colorado
Native Plant Society.

The Fund was established to encourage, through the provision of
small grants-in-aid, research on the biology and natural history of
Colorado native plants. Both field and laboratory studies are eli-
gible for funding. Awards of $500 or less may represent the sole
support of a project, may be part of joi nt funding agreed upon with
other granting groups or organizations, or may be used to supple-
ment other funding obtained by the investigator(s).

Traditionally, awards from the John W. Marr Fund have been
made at irregular intervals, subject to availability of suitable pro-

posals for which funding assistance is sought. However, the
Bqard is now soliciting proposals for a January 15, 1999 deadline.
Information on guidelines and requirements for proposals may be
obtained by contacting the Society. Awards are made solely at the
discretion of the CoNPS Board of Directors.

4Q(y/LEG/A Deadline Approaches

Please submit all contributions for Vol, 23 No. 1 of Aquilegid on
or prior to December 7, 1998. Short items such as unusual infor-
mation about a plant, a little known botanical term, etc., are espe-
cially welcome. Please note that previously published articles sub-
mitted for reprinting in Aquilegia require permission from the edi-
tor of original publication. Camera-ready line art or other illustra-
tions are also solicited.

Please include author's name and address, although anonymit) y,
may be requested. Articles submitted via e-mail or onfrisks (MAC
preferably, or IBM) are very much appreciated. Please indicate
word processing software and version.

Vol. 22 No. 6

Aquilegia

Page 9

FOR YOUR LIBRARY

CoNPS is pleased to provide a selection of books to members at discount prices; a partial list follows. If you are interested in any of these or
would like a complete list of available selections, please contact: Velma Richards, 3 125 Monmouth Ave., Englewood, CO 80110 or (303)
794-5432. Make check payable to CoNPS. Postage costs are additional for books received by mail. If you wanUo save postage charges,
you can pick up the books yourself from Velma Richards in Denver, Pat Murphy in Boulder, or Denise Culver in Fort Collins.

COLORADO NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY — DISCOUNT FUBUCATIONS ORDM FORM

Price

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Alpine Flower Finder

Wingate & Yeats

4.50

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Alpine Wildflowers of the Northern Rocky Mts.

Strickler

7.50

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Alpine Wildflowers of the Rocky Mts.

Duft & Moseley

11.00

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Best Tasting Wild Plants of Colorado

Seebeck

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Canyon Country Wildflowers, Field Guide to

Fagan

12.00

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Catalog of the Colorado Flora: A Biodiversity Baseline

Weber & Wittman

40.00

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Changes in Vegetation and Land Use in Eastern CO

USDA

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Colorado Wildflowers

Jones

5.50

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Colorado’s 30 Troublesome Weeds

CWMA

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Colorado’s BestWildlife Hikes

Irwin

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Pearson & Fielder

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Denver Grasses, A Key to the Common Genera^

Wingate

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Desert Wildflowers

Taylor

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Dictionary of Word Roots

Borrer

9.00

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Edible and Medicinal Plants of the West

Tilford

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Edible Wild Plants of the Prairie

Kindscher

10.50

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Familiar Cacti North America

Heil

6.50

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Field Guide to Colorado Wildflowers, Vol. 1, Plains

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Flora of the Great Plains

Great Plains Flora Assoc.

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Floristic Survey: Black Forest

Maley

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Floristic Survey: Mesa de Maya Region

Clark

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Marshall

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Grass Varieties in the USA

Lewis & Sharp

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Handbook of Rocky Mountain Plants

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How to ID Grasses & Grasslike Plants

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How to Identify Plants

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Illustrated Keys to the Grasses of Colorado

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Lichen Primer

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Medicinal Wild Plants of the Prairie

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Mushrooms of Colorado

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North American Range Plants

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Plant Identification Terminology

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Plant List: Dinosaur NatT Monument

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Plants of Arizona, Field Guide

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Prairie Garden, Creating a Shortgrass Prairie Garden

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Prairie Plants and Their Environment

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Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson Counties 3.80%, all other areas in Colorado 3.00%)

4,

Make Checks out to CoNPS; Include NAME, ADDRESS, COUNTY, and DAYTIME PHONE. TOTAL

Vol. 22 No. 6 Aquilegia Page 11

Crested Wheatgrass in Colorado

William A. Weber, RL.S.

y Professor arid Curator Emeritus, University of Colorado

My treatments of what we call crested 1938. As the name suggests, it has been /orme, but a new treatment is being devel-
wheatgrass have varied over the years, and used for many years on golf fairways. The oped that should resolve the differences
I am not satisfied including all of our rep- tetraploids, as far as I can tell, consist of A. between Sarkar’s treatment and that of
resentatives under the umbrella name Roemer & Schultes and A. Dewey (1983). The following key is adapt-

Agropyron cristatum. ThQxc happen to be desertorum VischQx ex Link in Colorado, ed from Sarkar (1956).

diploids (2n=14), as well as tetraploids We do not have, in Colorado, any plants

(2n=28). The diploid has been referred to that can be assigned to A. cristatum. This is REFERENCES CITED

as “fairway crested wheat” and is readily a plant with very short, dense spikes, in Dewey, D.R. 1983. Historical and current

distinguishable from the tetraploid. Sarkar - which the spikelets are very densely hir- taxonomic perspectives oi ^Agropyron,

(1956) named the diploid A, cmfetiformc, sute. It is common in Central Asia. Elymus, and related genera. Crop

but it now appears that there is an older Science 23: 637-642.

name for this taxon, which is A. nion- There are still differences of opinion Sarkar, R 1956. Crested wheatgrass com-

golicumKcxig, J. Wash. Acad. Sci. 28: 305. regarding the nomenclature of A. pectini- plex. Can. J. Bot. 34: 328-345.

la. Spikes short-linear, indistinctly pectinate, dense, without noticeable space between the spikelets; (glumes glabrous; culm minute-
ly villous below the spike; blades glaucous) A. desertorum Fischer ex Link

lb. Spikes oblong-oval, distinctly pectinate, with squarrose parallel spikelets . . . . . .(2)

2a. Spikes dense, but with noticeable space between spikelets; rachis and culm glabrous; blade smooth or scabrous

. ^ . . . .A. pectiniforme Roemer & Schultes

2b.

Spikes dense, with relatively less space between spikelets; rachis villous; culm minutely villous below the spike; blade sparsely
hairy .A. mongolicum Keng

Yellow starthistle identified on Front Range

Congratulations to CoNPS President Jeff Dawson for identifying
and reporting the first confirmed infestation of yellow starthistle
{Centaurea solstitialis) on the Front Range. This 1,400 plant
infestation at the Denver Federal Center was swiftly eradicated by
local natural resource managers. Yellow starthistleas very rare in
Colorado and that's the way many of us would like to keep it.
After consuming more than 10 million acres in California, this
invasive exotic is moving our way. If you spot a suspicious plant
or patch of plants, contact your local county weed supervisor and
Eric Lane, State weed co-ordinator and Board member. Yellow
starthistle is easily recognized by its small, thorn-protected yellow
flowers and winged stems.

$ 1998 Native Plant Art Contest Winners $

The winners of the 1998 Native Plant Art Contest were from Fort
Garland, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. Ann Gethen from
Fort Garland was awarded the $100.00 first place award for her
beautiful color drawing of Oenothera caespitosa (Onagraceae),
the gumbo evening primrose or gumbo lily. Daryl Mergen of

Colorado Springs was awarded the $50.00 second place award for

^"^an excellent sketch of our state grass Bouteloua gracilis
(Poaceae), blue grama. Elizabeth Hunter of Fort Collins was
awarded the $25.00 third place award for a very nice photograph

of Cleome (Capparaceae), the Rocky Mountain bee

plant. This contest was sponsored by CoNPS.

NEW 1999 Colorado Noxious Weed Calendars

For the first time in Colorado history, a calendar highlighting
Colorado noxious weeds in familiar localities around the state is
in production. Developed by Pitkin, La Plata, and Boulder County
weed managers, as well as former Society Director Carol Spurrier,
this 12-month calendar is an important addition to home or office.
Gaze wistfully at Boulder’s Flatirons while drinking your morning
cup of joe. Wait! Whaf s that in the foreground? A large expanse
of chicory!

This informative, sure-to-be a collector's item, home-grown Cal-
endar is available for only $2.50 from the Colorado Big Country
RC&D office, located at P.O. Box 2168, Glenwood Springs, CO
81602 or call (970) 945-0727 x4. Tell 'em Eric sent ya!

New CoNPS T-Shirts Now Available

In conjunction with the 1998 CoNPS Annual Meeting, Denise
Culver, CoNPS Treasurer developed t-shirts featuring a design by
Carolyn Crawford. These t-shirts are still available at a reasonable
$13.00 per shirt for members, or two for $25.00. Please contact
the Society to place your order.

CALENDAR

CHAPTER MEETINGS FIELD TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS

Boulder Chapter

Nov 12 Rocky Mountain Floristic Inventories

Nov 7, 8 The Helleboraceae in Colorado
First Session: Saturday, November 7
Second Session: Sunday, November 8

Dec 10 Sand Sage Prairies

Jan 14 Goosefoots of the Plains

Fort Collins Chapter

Nov 3 Corylus Taxonomy and Distribution

Dec 1 Araliaceae Taxonomy, Distribution, and

Disjunct Taxa

Metro-Denver Chapter

Dec 8 South Table Mesa

Dec 5, 6 The Poaceae: How to know the Tribes
First Session: Saturday, Deceniber 5
Second Session: Sunday, December 6

Jan 16, 17 Chenopodiaceae: The Goosefoot Family
First Session: Saturday, January 16
Second Session: Sunday, January 17

Feb 13, 14 Colorado’s Missing Flora

First Session: Saturday, February 13
Second Session: Sunday, February 14

March 6, 7 Polemoniaceae of Colorado

First Session: Saturday, March 6
Second Session: Sunday, March 7

April 17, 18 Botanical Illustration: Field Sketching
First Session: Saturday, April 17
Second Session: Sunday, AprU 18

Colorado Native Plant Society
P.O. Box 200

Fort Collins, Colorado 80522

> 1 ^

Non-profit
Organization
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PAID

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Denver, Colorado