Arizona - Tucson Plant Materials Center Highlights

Highlights

SOIL EROSION/SOIL QUALITY

Conserve and enhance soil resources with plant science technology

• Planting methodologies are developed to ensure survival and persistence of native species used in the revegetation of abandoned croplands, invasive species dominated lands, and wildfire affected areas.
• Evaluation of the adaptation of various warm and cool season cover crops to find appropriate species for crop rotations in the arid Southwest.  
• On disturbed land, retired cropland or areas where water is limited, "Seco" barley (Hordeum vulgare), released by the Tucson Plant Materials Center and/or other suitable cover crops species can aid in establishing vegetation and reducing soil erosion.

FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT

Improve habitat for fish and wildlife species

• The publications Plant Materials and Techniques for Establishing and Improving Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Habitat, Plants for Enhancing Pollinator Habitat in Arizona, and Pollinator Plants of the Desert Southwest, Native Milkweeds provide guidance to landowners, partners, and the public regarding adapted plants for establishing wildlife habitat. 

NATIVE PLANT SEED AVAILABILITY

Promote the commercial production of NRCS developed plants

• Promote the production of native seed by providing foundation seed and technical assistance for the establishment of native plant production fields.
• The publication, Native Seed Production, provides guidelines for producers interested in establishing native plant seed production fields.
• Develop native plant species and maintain foundation seed stocks for use in the implementation of Farm Bill programs.