August 1: This is a flat, wet area on the trail a little southeast of Mud Lake. The horses loved having a little lunch here. We had some lunch, too.

Timothy. Herd's Grass. Cat's-tail Grass. Phleum Pratense L. (from http://www.plantguide.org/timothy-grass.html) Perennial.

It is commonly grown for cattle feed and, in particular, as hay for horses. It is relatively high in fiber, especially when cut late. It is considered part of the standard mix for grass hay and provides quality nutrition for horses. Needs relatively nutrient rich soil.

Stem 1-5 ft. tall, erect, not branched. Ligule 1"-2" long. Leaves 3'-12' long, 2"-4" wide, flat, rough or nearly smooth.
Spike (spike-like panicle) 1'-7' long, cylindrical, green, densely flowered, 3"-4 1/2" in diameter. Spikelets 1-flowered, flat, about 1 1/2" long. Scales 3; outer scales compressed, about equal, hairy on keels, abruptly awn-pointed; flowering scale thin and translucent, truncate, much shorter than outer scales. Stamens 3, anthers usually lavender. Stigmas white.