Grasslands & Grazing (mowing)

We see grass and grasslands everywhere:  in our yards, in pastures, and in the wild.  Let's learn a bit more about the Grass Family - Poaceae and learn some ID techniques and common species.

The Lab ACtivity

In general grasses tend to look like little green leaves that all look alike...but that is because we are not looking close enough!  Your first step is to look at the diagram below in the background info.  Take note of the terminology relating to different parts of grass.  You may need to google some structures to make sure you know what you are looking at (i.e. what is a tiller, a stolon, etc.?).  Then, with your newfound vocabulary, watch the video directly after the diagram.  This will show you how to go about identifying some common cool season grass species.  I know the video is from the UK but we have many of the same species here in the USA as well thanks to human introductions so it is likely you will see some of these species around you.  In any case take special note of his approach (i.e. what traits he is using) to distinguish between species.  We also have a Multi Access Key for UK grasses based on grass inflorescence - please familiarize yourself with it.  When you are using it take special note that when you click on the name of each trait (Inflorescence, Spikelet arrangement, Spikelet shape, Glumes, Floret number, Awns, Awn length, Awn type) there is a a diagram and/or description that will lead you through how to use the trait.  

During this lab you will use your knowledge (diagram and video) and tools (video, key, smartphone apps) to identify grasses near you.  Your instructor will walk you through this process and help you with some of the nomenclature you have picked up in your review for this lab.  This is a VERY challenging thing to try and do...grasses are NOT easy!  It can be super challenging if the grass does not yet have any inflorescence showing.  Your ID apps may not be of much use as these are hard differences for them to pick up...but it is worth a try!  Also, please note that the resources I have referenced are to do with cool season grasses.  If you are trying to do IDs in warm season prairies you will want to look at the specific video below the cool season grass info.  Remember warm season grasses start growing later in the summer while cool season grasses take off right away in the early spring.

In addition to grass ID you will compare regularly grazed/mowed areas to areas that are not grazed or mowed.  What differences do you notice in plant morphotype diversity?  What about differences in the proportion of grasses vs. broad-leafed plants?  Why do you think you these observed differences exist?  How does mowing/grazing affect the sunlight conversion (photosynthetic capacity) in your grass patch? Soil cover? What do you think is happening to the plant community as a result of the mowing? How does managing plant/animal (lawn mower) relationships affect the ecosystem? 

Skill(s) to master for practicum

1. Nomenclature, structures, and process for grass ID

2. Ability to discuss the effects of mowing/grazing on grasses 

background

Multi Access Key for UK grasses using the following terms:

• Inflorescence

• Spikelet arrangement

• Spikelet shape

• Glumes

• Floret number

• Awns

• Awn length

• Awn type

other resources....

Fun children's book - We are Growing

https://www.nsf.gov/discoveries/disc_summ.jsp?cntn_id=295987

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/12/191219074744.htm