Built around hardy, drought-tolerant native cool-season grasses, this mix establishes strong ground cover, resists erosion, and provides long-term stability with minimal inputs. A very light touch of native forbs adds ecological value without increasing cost or maintenance.
Primary Uses
- CRP base seedings (CP2, CP4D–style foundations)
- Large acreage restoration projects
- Grazing deferment or range improvement
- Wildlife cover and soil stabilization
- Budget-conscious conservation plantings
Why it works
- Grass-dominant for reliable establishment and longevity
- Performs well on loam to clay soils common in Western Colorado
- Cool-season grasses provide early green-up and soil protection
- Minimal forb component keeps competition low and costs controlled
Species Composition
Yarrow (0.05), Coreopsis, Lanceleaf (sand) (0.05), Wheatgrass, Slender (1.5), Fescue, Idaho (1), Wheatgrass, Western (1.3), Bluegrass, Sandberg (VNS) (0.4). Updated January 2026.
This mix fits well within:
- CP2 & CP4D
- NRCS 327 – Conservation Cover
- NRCS 528 – Prescribed Grazing (support mix)
Establishment Notes
- Best seeded in late fall (dormant) or early spring
- Drill seeding is recommended
- though broadcast with packing can be successful on prepared sites
- This mix can also serve as a base planting that allows for future interseeding of pollinator or wildlife forbs if desired.
Bottom line:
A simple, rugged, and economical grass mix that does exactly what landowners and planners expect—establishes fast, lasts long, and meets conservation goals without unnecessary complexity.
