Sandplain Grasslands

Sandplain Grasslands

Waquoit Sandplain Grassland at WBNERR (.jpg - 63k)

Sandplain Grasslands are globally rare areas dominated by two bunch grasses, little bluestem (Schizachyrum scoparium), and poverty grass (Danthoria spicata). Between the grass tussocks a diverse and unusual plant community thrives, including sandplain gerardia (Agalinis acuta), a federally endangered plant found at two sites on Cape Cod. The presence of bird's foot violet (Viola pedata) indicates a healthy grassland.

Sandplain grasslands are transient communities that quickly colonize cleared areas, and then quickly succumb to succession by shrubs. Since open areas on the Cape are subject to development, these grasslands are commonly found in maintained clearings, such as along roadways or under powerlines.

Studies are being done to determine a regimen for maintaining the remaining sandplain grasslands with methods of controlled burning, mowing and grazing. Foot and vehicle traffic is damaging to these rare communities.