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i themselves. This management technique mimics the effects of natural light grazing or fire. During the establishment phase (first year), supplemental irrigation may be necessary if spring rainfall is below normal. While annual grasses and forbs will never be eliminated, the above activities normally result in the successful establishment of perennial grasses. Subsequent ongoing management will be necessary to maintain perennial grasses. One to two spring mowings will be necessary to suppress annual weeds, including fast growing annual grasses. Perennials flower later in the season, usually from June to July, and must be allowed to go to seed. It is important to let the plants reseed the area, as the perennials have a limited life span and need to be replenished. After having shed their seeds in midsummer, the perennials should be mowed to a height of 4-6 inches. Irri atg ion. Since California bunchgrasses seem to do the best in moister climates than the Great Valley or with better soil conditions, a supplemental irrigation system will be installed. To out compete the annual grasses, thorough waterings scheduled in early fall and late spring will be necessary. This timing is designed to take advantage of perennial grasses' growth period in the warm season, while the competing annual grasses are active in the cool season but not in the warmer months. A light misting of the grasses will be necessary in the summer months. Weed Control. Most of the annual grassland habitat is occupied currently by exotic plants. It is not feasible to remove all of the non-natives from these areas. However, it may be desirable to remove troublesome weeds and exotic plants to achieve the overall goal of maximizing biodiversity. It may be necessary, in some areas, to control yellow star-thistle. Yellow star-thistle proliferates in disturbed, well-drained soils and under drought conditions; it does not do Buckeye Ranch Resource Plan (November, 1993) 149