| dc.description | Despite the interest in range legumes that has persisted in the Western United States since the turn of the century, it is only recently that expanded efforts have been made to use and improve them. Ecological factors governing the success of a range legume include growth factors such as temperature, water, light, nutrients and air. Adaptive environmental factors such as soil texture, soil chemistry, cold and drought tolerance, which are in turn affected by wind, exposure and location on the landscape are also important. Persistence of a range legume is important and is determined by the species reproductive capacity. Management factors such as cattle control, larger acreages, and different weed control practices determine the type of legume that should be used in range. In general, alfalfa remains the species most adapted to northwestern ranges. Expanded interest both in breeding and management of range legumes suggest continued improvement. | en |
