Investigating the Effects of Alternative Reclamation Practices on Recently Reclaimed Grasslands

Abstract

Surface mining operations in the Northern Plains result in complex grassland ecosystems being dismantled and later systematically reclaimed. Such processes can create long-term challenges with regards to the ecological recovery of reclaimed grasslands, prompting the need to find alternative reclamation practices that improve plant community dynamics and soil properties. We assessed both plant community characteristics (i.e., species richness, diversity, abundance, and community composition) and soil properties (i.e., penetration resistance and volumetric soil moisture) of reclaimed grasslands with alternative reclamation practices. Early findings showed that certain alternative reclamation practices may aid in the initial recovery of reclaimed grasslands by supporting desirable native plant communities and improving soil conditions. However, newly reconstructed landscapes are dynamic and are susceptible to change over time. Overall, we suggest continued monitoring of these reclaimed grasslands, and perhaps the use of supplemental management to maintain and/or enhance the current conditions.