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Background
Running buffalo clover (Trifolium stoloniferum) was
listed as a federally endangered species in 1987. This stoloniferous
perennial occurs in Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and West
Virginia in one of two fairly distinct habitats (lawn or wooded).
Consistent management of these different habitat types is critical
for maintaining running buffalo clover populations. The following
recommendations were compiled in Ohio to guide property owners
and land managers in the management and recovery of this endangered
species.
Lawn Sites
(cemeteries, parks, old home sites, etc.)
Mowing
– We recommend a mowing regime that reduces competition
to the running buffalo clover (RBC) and allows for flowering
and seed set. Mowers should be set at no lower than 3 inches.
Schedule:
Once in Mid-April
Once during the first week of May
Once during the last week of June
Anytime after July 1 is acceptable
Avoid
the use of herbicides around RBC.
Control
invasive plants manually in the vicinity of RBC. Typical invasive
groundcovers growing among RBC include periwinkle, Japanese
honeysuckle, and wintercreeper.
We
do not recommend burning as an effective management strategy
for existing populations. RBC is not a prairie species and occurs
in habitats that are not necessarily adapted to fire
(e.g. mesic woodlands). Unlike fire-adapted species, much of
the RBC plant structure is above ground. Fire will most likely
kill the plants that are growing at the site.For More Information
Soil
disturbances/scraping may be beneficial to existing populations.
Experiments involving various types and levels of soil disturbance
should be conducted by experienced researchers.
Wooded
Sites
(mesic woods, sites near streams, etc.)
We
recommend removal of individual, select trees to maintain a
"dappled shade" environment. Cut stumps should be
treated with a systemic herbicide to prevent resprouting.
Control
invasive plants through manual pulling (e.g. garlic mustard)
or selective herbicide application on cut stems (e.g. Amur honeysuckle).
No
foliar herbicide application within 25 feet of RBC sites.
No
burning (see above).
Minimal
soil disturbance (see above).
Special
thanks to the Ohio RBC Management Group:
M. Becus, A. Cusick, R. Glotzhober (Ohio Historical Society),
J. Klein and J. Mundy (Hamilton Co. Park District), G. Schneider
and M. Moser (ODNR-Division of Natural Areas & Preserves),
M. Vincent (Miami University), and J. Windus (ODNR-Division of
Wildlife)
Contact:
Sarena M. Selbo
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(614)469-6923 x 17
sarena_selbo@fws.gov
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