Planning

Determine if trees and shrubs are indigenous to the site you intend to plant. Determine if the site has the hydrology, soils, and frequency and duration of flooding needed to support successful long-term establishment and growth of plants.

Several management factors have been determined to be critical in Montana for successful plant establishment in riparian conservation practices. Livestock exclusion until woody plants are adequately sized to tolerate browsing, trampling, and rubbing is necessary. It maybe needed to exclude livestock three to five years to establish plantings. Protection from wildlife including deer, elk, moose, rabbits, mice, voles, and other rodents may be necessary. Use tree shelters, fencing and other animal control techniques to exclude or minimize damage to woody plantings in riparian projects. Drift from non-selective and broad-leaf selective herbicides, especially when applied to adjacent pasture and rangeland from aircraft or large ground sprayers, can be detrimental to woody plant survival, establishment, and growth. Herbicides with lengthy residual soil activity may prevent adventitious root formation or survival of transplanted nursery stock. Examine past and planned herbicide prescriptions and applications for the riparian area and adjacent land prior to project initiation. Make sure that herbicides are labeled for use near riparian areas (surface water) and are compatible with woody plants.

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Last Modified: 08/08/2007