Congenic strains represent an important resource for confirmation of previously identified QTLs, for identification and mapping of additional phenotypes, and for exclusion of candidate genes. QTL-marker-assisted selection rapidly stabilized the genetic background within four generations (based on phenotypic assessments); however, phenotypic selection during the backcrossing to generate congenic strains did not contribute to the successful capture of the ISS QTLs.

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From 1938 to 1982 the total acreage of Black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) towns in Wind Cave National Park increased from 290 to 750 ha. In 1982 a management plan was introduced that reduced the area covered by prairie dog towns to 290 acres. The objective of this study is to monitor vegetation changes that occur following the removal of prairie dogs. These data will prove useful in developing management plans for the removed prairie dog towns and also provide useful data on the vegetation and seed bank composition on the Wind Cave National Park grasslands.