If all goes according to plan, Alberta will have an officially designated grass next month. Rough fescue was the overwhelming choice in a vote last year and its selection as a provincial emblem is expected to be legislated in late April.
Those familiar with prairie grasslands know the rough fescue, by appearance if not by name. It is hardy, tall and either golden or silvery blue, depending on species and location. In spring and summer, it waves in the wind, with a proud flag on top.
In winter, it often shows itself above the snow, providing winter fodder for cattle and wildlife.
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Some say rough fescue is the reason Alberta beef is renowned for its quality and taste, because the grass provides high protein feed in spring, native hay in summer, and cures itself on the stalk for grazing in fall and winter.
Saskatchewan proclaimed its official grass in 2001. Needle and thread grass was a clear winner in its own provincial vote a few years ago.
Those who know rough fescue are likely to also know needle and thread because the two share the prairie. The grass has a long, thin awn topped by a spiky seed. The awn turns curly when dried, so it looks like a thread with a needle attached.
This grass is an important forage species for cattle, wildlife and small mammals. It’s known for its ability to affix itself to animals and clothing.
Research didn’t turn up a provincial grass for either Manitoba or British Columbia, although there are some who claim to know the unofficial grass of our left-coast province. Enough said about that.
Have Alberta and Saskatchewan chosen provincial grasses that reflect their personalities? Evidence suggests as much.
Consider: Prairie fescue has deep, tenacious roots and is well adapted to the prairie climate. It withstands and even flourishes in all kinds of conditions, harsh or fair. It is slow to grow from seed, but once established, it persists. As its name suggests, some stalks can be rough and hard to swallow but its hardy nature has been integral to Alberta’s prosperity.
Needle and thread grass also has deep and tenacious roots. It can hold onto soil like nobody’s business and because of that is known to survive drought better than many other species.
The clinging abilities of its seeds allow it to get friendly with animals and people. It can travel easily, hitch rides and make a pretty good show of out-migration.
The case rests.
