Site preparation is critical for successful revegetation projects. Preparation can include land scraping followed by tilling to remove compacted layers, improving soil tilth, destroying weeds, and providing a firm, friable seedbed with safe sites for seeded species. Tillage implements are classified as primary and secondary. Primary tillage refers to initial soil disturbance while secondary tillage is the final seedbed preparation prior to planting. Rangeland is often littered with shrub debris so a portion of this chapter is dedicated to implements designed to traverse debris-littered land.

References/Additional Information

Eldridge, J.; Redente, E.; Paschke, M. 2011. The use of seedbed modifications and wood chips to accelerate restoration of well pad sites in Western Colorado, USA. Restoration Ecology. 20(4): 524-531.

Fitch, K.  2025. Shrub-steppe and grassland restoration – 6 common mistakes. In: Revegetation Technology and Equipment Council Symposium (SRM 2025); 2025 February 9-13; Spokane, WA: 32:06-47:54 (YouTube recording covering plant materials, site preparation)

McGinnies, B. 1991. Seedbed preparation: The forgotten step in range seeding. In: Rangeland Technology Equipment Council. 1990 Annual Report. 9122-2805-MTDC. Missoula, MT: USDA Forest Service Technology & Development Center: 56.

Monsen, S.B.; Stevens, R. 2004. Chapter 12. Seedbed preparation and seeding practices. In: Monsen, S.B.; Stevens, R.; Shaw, N.L., comps. Restoring western ranges and wildlands, vol. 1. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-136-vol-1. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station: 121-154.

Simonson, D.B.; Cornforth, B.; Ogle, D.; St. John, L. 2006. Function and operation of a machine to lay weed barrier fabric. Tech Note 25. Boise, ID: USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 8 p.

St. John, L.; Tilley, D.J.; Ogle, D.; Jacobs, J.; Holzworth, L.; Wiesner, L. 2011. Principles of seedbed preparation for conservation seedings. Tech Note 13. USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 14 p.