Native Plants for Idaho Roadside Restoration and Revegetation Programs

This paper describes a profile for the selection of plants native to the state of Idaho. It is intended to benefit of Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) roadside managers, native plant enthusiasts and travelers throughout the state interested in the use of native plant species along Idaho roadways. The goal of the paper is to incorporate more native plant species into future revegetation and restoration programs along Idaho roadsides. The plants described in this guide have the capacity to increase road cut stability, decrease soil erosion, and diminish the presence of weedy species. When new roads are built, or old roads improved, the roadside and adjacent lands are drastically altered. This physical disturbance of the landscape requires awareness of, and attention to the biological, ecological, and engineering requirements necessary for successful construction of a properly functioning roadway. When road cuts are left bare, these areas contribute to soil loss and play a key role in the establishment of weeds. Native vegetation imparts greater soil strength and requires less maintenance than weedy competitors. Incorporating native plants with existing roadside maintenance and road construction strategies promotes sustainability and biodiversity while simultaneously improving roadway stability and roadside aesthetics.