Location: Forage and Range Research
Project Number: 2080-21500-002-024-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 1, 2024
End Date: Oct 30, 2026
Objective:
This research's objective is the development of orchardgrass that has increased winter hardiness for use in harsh winter regions of North America. Vernal, UT is a harsh winter site that receives minimal snowfall, which acts as insulation to plants. Thus, orchardgrass genotypes will be screened in multi-year evaluations for winter hardiness at this locations. ARS researchers will conduct the data collection and analysis and the cooperator will provide irrigation and plot observation support.
Approach:
The ARS researchers will establish orchardgrass genotypes in an experimental design at the Vernal, UT field site. The ARS researchers will then be responsible for forage yield collection and ratings of genotypes for winter hardiness. The trials are multi-year and selected genotypes will then be used as parents of subsequent generations. The cooperator and staff will provide weekly irrigation support and monitoring and observation of the plots.
