Dynamics of the recovery of damaged tundra vegetation. Annual progress report. [Growth of native dunegrass (Elymus mollis)]

Technical Report · Fri Mar 17 04:00:00 EST 1978

OSTI ID:5117656

Amundsen, C C

In the course of our continuing programs on the patterns and processes of disturbed landscape tundra revegetation, a study was made of natural revegetation by Elymus mollis Trin., the native dunegrass, in the Aleutian ecosystem. This species is the dominant member of the beach and dune community where it forms dense stands of high biomass. The species has also been observed, throughout our years of research, colonizing disturbed areas inland. These disturbances may be the bare surfaces of solifluction terraces or they may result from vegetation removal and scarring as the result of man's activities. Much of the damage resulted from World War II occupation. The surprising aspect of dunegrass colonization on such areas is the presumed depauperate nutritional supply and harsh climate the species encounters. Considering the success of this grass in natural colonization, it is suggested that with careful management, Elymus mollis could be shown to be useful in revegetation programs in the Aleutians.

• Research Organization: Tennessee Univ., Knoxville (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5117656
• Report Number(s): ORO-4180-7
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

510100* -- Environment
Terrestrial-- Basic Studies-- (-1989)
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
553000 -- Agriculture & Food Technology
60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
BIOMASS
CLIMATES
COASTAL REGIONS
ECOSYSTEMS
ENERGY SOURCES
GRASS
ISLANDS
LAND RECLAMATION
PLANTS
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
REVEGETATION
TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS
TUNDRA