The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla, Walla Walla and Cayuse encompass tribes in north eastern Oregon, parts of Washington and Idaho. The tribes utilize native plants, roots, and trees for religious, cultural usage and daily processing.  In the past the land under present investigation has been used for agricultural purposes, and attempts to restore the natural habitat with native plants have been unsuccessful.This study represents an initial attempt at chemically characterizing the soil quality that sustains the growth of a variety of native plants on a specific parcel of land.  Tests include pH, phosphate-phosphorous, ammonium-nitrogen, organic matter, zinc, copper, and potassium. In addition, analysis for phenoxy acid herbicide residues, in particular picloram, was conducted.The results of the study will aid in developing a greater understanding of the soil characteristics and will be used to develop soils of controlled composition for growth optimization of the native plants.

Soil study in support of Native American plant growth

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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