EXAMINING BEST NATIVE SEED RESTORATION PRACTICES IN THE CHIHUAHUAN ECOREGION

1) Place native collected seed into diverse mixes that are outside the standard application protocols. Through the utilization of novel and creative seed mixes we can test the applicability of different functional group interactions, and facilitation, for best seeding practices. 2) Examine different seed application patterns to again, better understand plant-plant interactions and ultimately facilitation through plant successional stages 3) In addition to biotic manipulations through seed mixes and application patterns, habitat modification efforts will be put in place to provide a more hospitable abiotic environment to improve germination and establishment and finally, 4) Collate research findings to develop improved management practices in dryland systems, particularly, those of New Mexico in the northern Chihuahuan desert.