FINAL RESTORATION PROJECT

The primary goal is to develop a clearly defined and testable restoration strategy.
This strategy must connect back to specific goals and objectives for the prairie restoration project.

Establish reasonable goals and objectives appropriate for a prairie restoration site.
The strategy must effectively test these goals and objectives.

A robust strategy lacks strict rules but should incorporate the following elements:
- Controls: Establish reference sites to measure recovery against.
- Replication: Ensure results can be replicated to verify findings.
- Monitoring Plan: Develop a comprehensive monitoring plan to evaluate progress over time.

Suggested monitoring practices include measuring percent cover using one by one meter quadrats.
Monitoring is to occur in the following manner:
- First Year: Initial monitoring after seeding.
- Subsequent Monitoring: Every three years for a duration of ten years.

Reference previously discussed principles of good restoration goals to guide the project.
- Ensure clarity on what constitutes effective goals and incorporate elements from eight guiding principles highlighted in class.

Importance of creating a realistic budget for restoration efforts.
- Example: When calculating shrub densities, reference cost data from sources like the TreeTime website to find prices for individual shrubs or trays.
- Budget should reflect actual costs involved, such as hydroseeding rates for land area (e.g., five acres).
- Suggestion to contact local service providers or suppliers for estimates if necessary.

Acknowledging past land use of the restoration site, which included cultivation practices.
- Notable crop rotation included the use of canola in previous years.
- Reference to a written document may provide further context on prior agriculture details.

Accept that previous seeding has introduced a specific blend of seeds on the landscape.
Address the presence of non-native species and set a primary goal to reduce these species during restoration.

Cover Page: Not mandatory, but students have the option to include one.
Fencing: The area is currently not fenced, and there is no plan for conventional fencing. Use of mobile electric fencing for grazers could be considered.
Team Members: Students are encouraged to reach out to instructors for questions, especially pertaining to project specifics and timelines.
Timeline: Acknowledge the importance of submitting work by the set deadline, November 7.

Reference to Catherine for direct assistance on the project, with a recommendation to reach out for clarification.
Availability of instructor for clarifications on project feedback, emphasizing delays may occur due to multiple inquiries.

Brief mention of upcoming lectures focusing on rights of way and setting the stage for the final virtual field trip.
Instructor appreciates the return of 'sleeves' for enhanced course engagement.