Project Number: 6235-11210-006-56
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Jul 01, 2007
End Date: Jun 30, 2012

Objective:
To identify endophytic microbes that enhance performance of native grasses. To evaluate performance of native grasses containing novel endophyte combinations in laboratory and field environments.

Approach:
1. Identify individual endophytes inhabiting black grama, sand dropseed, and alkali sacaton, four-wing saltbush, and other species. 2. Cross inoculate black grama and other grass species with identified endophytes to evaluate endophyte effects on early plant vigor. Plant-endopyte combinations exhibiting significantly improved vigor will be selected for longer-term evaluations in greenhouse and field trials. 3. Analyze genetic variability of black grama with respect to reproductive strategies and success, while identifying plant-specific genetic markers. 4. Establishment of field trials and common garden studies to determine success of fungal endophyte transfers. These studies will be planned and conducted in cooperation with the BLM and may include test plots on BLM sites where remediation is desired.