Over 4 years, Willms et al. compared vegetation in overgrazed and undergrazed patches, in rough fescue grasslands. Overgrazed patches were dominated by grazing-resistant seral species, while undergrazed patches were dominated by climax species. Rough fescue (Festuca scabrella) and Parry oat grass (Danthonia parryl) plants were 50% shorter, and forage production was 35% less, on overgrazed patches compared to undergrazed patches. Soil organic matter, carbohydrates, and depth of the Ah horizon were significantly greater on undergrazed patches. Overgrazed pastures had greater urease activity, NO3N, NH4, and available phosphorus. Overgrazed and undergrazed patches were stable in the long-term, although patch boundaries fluctuated.
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