Natural Resources Conservation Service

Plant Materials Program

United States Department of Agriculture

Stabilizing Irrigation Reservoir Slopes with 'Halifax' Maidencane

Stabilizing soil around irrigation reservoirs is imperative to maintain the function of the reservoir and to improve its water quality. Native, semi aquatic plants are well suited for this task.

First image of the successful demonstration planting of 'Halifax' maidencane

Maximizing the benefits of cover crops for soil health

Taking advantage of differences in cover crop species and varieties allows better customization of cover crop plantings.

Cover crop plots at the Lockeford, California Plant Materials Center, Lockeford, California.

Weed Suppression Treatment Effects on Tree Seedling Establishment

Annual and perennial covers planted during woody plant establishment can greatly help with suppressing weeds and improving growth of woody plants.

Cuivre River Virginia wild rye is outlined in this photo.

Western Plant Materials Centers Working for Butterfly Conservation

June is national pollinator month and a great time to recognize the importance of pollinators. Western Plant Materials Centers are studying practices to improve butterfly habitat development and management efforts.

Butterflies foraging in pollinator habitats

PMC's and Collaborations: A Recipe for Pollinator Conservation Success

The USDA NRCS Big Flats Plant Materials Center collaborates with many private, local, state and other federal agencies to improve pollinator habitat throughout the Northeast, US. Click the title to find out how!