Expanding horizons for herbaceous ecosystem restoration: the Grassy Groundcover Restoration Project

摘要: Summary  The Grassy Groundcover Restoration Project (GGRP) has sown thirteen 1 ha plots of species-rich grassland or herbaceous understorey in previously weedy agricultural paddocks a range rural locations across southern and western Victoria, Australia. are intended as both experimental trials ‘core’ areas for the restoration communities native to these regions. Approximately 200 species were grown Seed Production Areas (SPAs) successfully field. Species most established on that scalped prior seeding, least successful pre-treated with 1, 2 3 years traditional herbicide weed control. Weed presence was lowest highest non-scalped plots. Long-term monitoring will be required understand development trajectories degree persistence communities, but shorter term (3–6 years post-seeding) an average 80% have remain adult populations. Surveys indicate (n = 130) vegetation composition, structure quality been maintained. Conversely, declined markedly (n = 130). Formal surveys field observations also revealed all sites provide habitats which colonized by fauna from variety trophic levels. implications building realize complex grassy ecosystem at larger scales discussed including securing sufficient quantities high-quality seed, use mechanized broad-scale direct-seeding techniques effectiveness using mixtures early cycle.