Revegetation of Disturbed Landscapes: Montana Case Studies

John Whittingham, MT, Professional Wetland Scientist, CPESC Owner, Hydrologist Basic Biological Services LLC

Revegetation of Disturbed Landscapes: Montana Cases Studies Revegetation of disturbed landscapes is often driven by the need to reduce soil erosion and establish desirable and functional vegetation. Rapid establishment of beneficial and sustainable vegetation is a primary tool for soil conservation and habitat enhancement. In many cases, noxious, nuisance, or undesirable vegetation is well established on the project landscape. The extent and concentration of undesirable vegetation can greatly affect planning, implementation, cost, and final results of revegetation efforts on reclamation and restoration projects. This presentation will address: 1) The detrimental effects of specific invasive flora on native plant communities, soil health and function, and their land use significance in semi-arid western landscapes. Research on Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa) and Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) will be referenced. 2) The chemical, biological, mechanical, and cultural techniques used to reduce or eliminate specific flora from adversely infested landscapes. Herbicide technology and toxicity, and success with bio-controls will be emphasized. 3) The process of selecting, establishing, and maintaining beneficial vegetation to reduce soil erosion. Native species resistance to invasive species, native species resistance to common herbicides, and re-seeding after herbicide use will be discussed. Case studies of recent mine reclamation and wetland restoration in Montana will be used to illustrate the need for a comprehensive approach to promote revegetation strategies, reduce soil loss, and improve land health and function.

Presented by John Whittingham, Professional Wetland Scientist, Basic Biological Services LLC

John Whittingham has been engaged in land rehabilitation and restoration projects for over twenty-five years. He is a graduate of the University of Montana and achieved a Master of Science degree at Montana State University. Mr. Whittingham served as a hydrogeologist technician (MDNRC), as a hydrologist technician (USDA USFS), and as a hydrologist and hazardous materials specialist (USDOI BLM). He is nationally certified as a Professional Wetland Scientist, a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control, HazWoper, and MSHA; and holds 4 professional licenses with the Montana Department of Agriculture. Mr. Whittingham is the Montana Representative of the IECA, and is co-owner of Basic Biological Services LLC in Dillon Montana.