Revegetating Saline Soils: A Prairie Solution Rooted in Grass

Saline soils are a growing concern across Saskatchewan, with over 5.5 million acres at moderate to high risk of salinization. These soils, rich in sulphate salts from ancient marine deposits and glacial mixing, can severely limit crop productivity—ranging from reduced yields to complete establishment failure.

But there’s hope beneath our feet.

Why Grasses Work to Revegetate Saline Soils

Salt-tolerant perennial grasses offer a practical and sustainable solution for reclaiming saline soils. Not only do they improve soil structure and reduce salt movement through deep rooting systems, but they also provide valuable forage for livestock.

Key management tips include:

• Seeding a mix of species to account for variability in salinity levels.

• Choosing deep-rooted varieties to lower water tables and reduce salt accumulation.

• Dormant fall seeding in flood-prone areas to take advantage of lower soil moisture and improve spring establishment.

  
  

Top Performers: Green Wheatgrass & Hybrids

Among the most promising species are green wheatgrass (AC Saltlander) and NewHy hybrid wheatgrass. Both show strong emergence and survival in soils with salinity levels up to 24 dS/m. Green wheatgrass, in particular, offers:

• Early spring growth and late-season palatability

• Competitive yields under moderate salinity

• Superior forage quality compared to traditional wheatgrasses

  
  

  

  AC Saltlander green wheatgrass

  
  

Forage & Quality Highlights

Research from Swift Current shows green wheatgrass outperforming crested wheatgrass and Russian wildrye in dryland forage yields. It also boasts better digestibility and nutrient content, making it a smart choice for both soil health and livestock nutrition.

A Regenerative Opportunity

Revegetating saline soils isn’t just about reclaiming land—it’s about restoring ecological balance and building resilience into prairie agriculture. With the right species and timing, farmers can turn marginal land into productive forage stands while improving long-term soil health.

For full details, species comparisons, and seeding recommendations, check out the original fact sheet on Revegetation of Saline Soils from the Saskatchewan Forage Council.