In this 3 year study, grazing sheep and cattle together tended to reduce the impacts of grazing on vegetation and soils, when compared to grazing either herbivore alone. Mixed species pastures had less forbs and more grass species, higher soil nutrient content and soil pH, and lower B-horizon soil bulk density than pastures grazed by sheep or cattle alone. Grazing sheep alone tended to increase the P content and bulk density of the soils, while reducing the amount of white clover in the pastures. Grazing cattle alone tended to reduce the amount of bluegrass and increase the amount of thistle and horsenettle in the pasture. Grazing the two species together may benefit the soil and vegetative characteristics of pastures. However, pasture size and vegetation should be used to select compatible stocking rates and herbivore species prior to implementing this system.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.