The growth form and vegetative characteristics of willows (Salix spp.), on the winter range in Rocky Mountain National Park, changed dramatically in response to protection from elk (Cervus elaphus) browsing. This suggests that elk were suppressing the natural growth of these plants. Protected willows had a greater number of stem segments and greater segment biomass than unprotected willows, for all years but the last. In the last year of data collection, samples were collected before winter browsing by elk, which provides evidence that willows can recover after browsing, but continued browsing causes alteration of plant growth form. Although willows in this area had developed a hedged growth form, due to grazing pressure prior to exclusion, within 4 years of excluding grazing, plants are able to recover and change their growth form quickly. In general, the data collected by Baker et al. suggests that willow communities in Rocky Mountain National Park have not entered an alternative stable state because they are able to recover quickly after grazing pressures are removed. Future management efforts, which limit browsing, could help these willow communities recover to a more natural state.
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