VALUE AND USE
SPECIES: Juncus balticus | Baltic Rush 



WOOD PRODUCTS VALUE : 
NO-ENTRY


IMPORTANCE TO LIVESTOCK AND WILDLIFE : 
Baltic rush is an important forage species for livestock and elk.  It is
used as a hay crop for cattle [15,16].  It is important nesting, hiding,
and feeding cover for shorebirds and waterfowl [5,14].


PALATABILITY : 
Palatability varies widely for Baltic rush, ranging from low to
excellent for all classes of livestock [15].


NUTRITIONAL VALUE : 
In vitro dry matter digestibility for Baltic rush on North Dakota
wetland range was 57 percent in late spring and 20 percent in late
summer [19].


COVER VALUE : 
Baltic rush has been rated as good cover for waterfowl, nongame birds,
and small mammals [6].


VALUE FOR REHABILITATION OF DISTURBED SITES : 
Baltic rush has been classified as an excellent streambank stabilizer
because of its thick rhizomes [12,24].  Because it increases with
grazing it provides good protection against erosion on severely
overgrazed sites [33].


OTHER USES AND VALUES : 
Native Americans used Baltic rush for weaving baskets and mats [31,33].


MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS : 
Baltic rush increases with grazing [12].  However, because it is often
found in wet habitats, damage from trampling is possible [27].  Baltic
rush can increase in percent cover within 5 years following application
of 2,4-D ester [1].

Related categories for Species: Juncus balticus | Baltic Rush