Beginning in 2017, the Rocky Mountain Research Station (RMRS) in Boise has initiated reciprocal transplant experiments with the goal of understanding local adaptation in native forbs and developing genetic seed transfer zones. With a focus on sage grouse habitat and shrubland ecosystems, RMRS has developed multiple partnerships within federal land agencies and state universities across the Intermountain Region. In contrast to previous seed transfer studies focused on wind pollinated species, research on forbs across a large geographic area presents several unique challenges. Local adaptation and plasticity may be expressed through widely varying traits among taxonomic groups. Furthermore, spatial patterns and phenological timing in populations may vary across both an ecoregional scale and microclimate scale. Selection of target species and field-collection across multiple states using limited personnel pose continuing difficulty. Through an iterative process starting with species selection and ending with common garden data collection, a complex work-flow has been developed. As part of this work-flow, novel protocols have been established in order to balance research needs with practical application. Ongoing work has resulted in numerous secondary products, including the improvement of seedling grow-outs, techniques for dryland garden installation, field identification guides, and germination trials.