The EcoRestore Utah assessment tool provides technical data for native plant species to assist in ecological restoration across the state, including details on soil requirements, elevation ranges, and management benefits for species such as Basin Big Sagebrush, Basalt Milkvetch, and Alpine Timothy.
Sagebrush Habitat and Growth
Basin Big Sagebrush, a perennial shrub, is identified as a high-reproduction and high-establishment species suited for riparian conditions. According to the EcoRestore Utah assessment tool, the plant can reach a maximum height of 13 feet and features green flowers that bloom between August and November.
This species thrives in alkaline conditions with loam, silt, or sand soil types. It is found in a wide range of Utah counties, including Beaver, Cache, Salt Lake, Utah, and Washington, at elevations ranging from 1,900 to 6,900 feet. Management of Basin Big Sagebrush is recommended for erosion control, drought resilience, and the creation of wildlife, big game, and upland game habitats.
Milkvetch Soil and Ecological Use
Basalt Milkvetch is a perennial forb or herb that grows in warm seasons and reaches a maximum height of 3 feet. The EcoRestore Utah assessment tool notes that the plant produces white flowers from May through July and is characterized by moderate growth and low reproduction rates.
This species is specifically suited for acidic soil conditions containing heavy metals like Cesium. It is found in Boxelder County at elevations between 650 and 8,200 feet. The plant is considered livestock tolerant and is used to support pollinator, bumblebee, and upland game habitats, as well as general wildlife habitat and drought resilience.
Alpine Timothy Characteristics
Alpine Timothy is a perennial grass that grows during cool seasons and reaches a maximum height of 1.4 feet. The EcoRestore Utah assessment tool indicates the species has a slow growth rate but high germination and moderate reproduction rates.
This grass is suited for acidic soil types such as clay, loam, silt, and sand, and is best utilized in low light, fire, disturbance, wetland, or riparian conditions. Alpine Timothy is found across numerous Utah counties, including Beaver, Grand, Sanpete, and Summit, at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 12,500 feet. It is used for management goals involving wildlife habitat, big game habitat, and livestock tolerance.
Commercial Availability and Utility
All three species—Basin Big Sagebrush, Basalt Milkvetch, and Alpine Timothy—are listed as having commercial availability for restoration efforts. Each plant serves distinct ecological roles based on their specific elevation requirements and soil preferences within the Utah landscape.
