Effect of Post-Harvest Management Practices on Seed Yields on Fine-Leaf Fescue

Public opposition and legislative actions have restricted the practice of open-field burning of grass seed fields in Western Oregon's Willamette Valley. Finding economically acceptable alternatives to straw residue removal has become a priority for valley grass seed growers. Trials using 4 residue management practices were established on 2 commercial fine fescue (Festuca rubra) seed fields. Seed yields varied significantly between residue management practices. Seed yields from thermal-treated plots were equal or significantly greater than yields from the non-thermal treatments. Fertile tiller number was also greater with thermal treatments. Most fine fescue fields produce 4-6 seed crops before replanting, thus the long-term effect of the various treatments is the focus of this study. Results of this study will help growers decide which straw removal practices to use if burning is eliminated.