Wambolt examined differences in bluebunch wheatgrass (Agropyron spicatum) nutrient content in elk (Cervus elaphus) winter range between a pasture grazed by cattle (Bos taurus) in the spring, rested from grazing for a year, and a pasture given long term rest from grazing. The nitrogen and phosphorus contents were greater in the spring grazed pasture regrowth. However, the regrowth after spring cattle grazing did not impact the winter nutrient content for wildlife. No differences were found in bluebunch wheatgrass nutrient content between the spring-grazed plots and the plots where grazing had been excluded for a year. Nitrogen content was the same during the winter for all three treatments and most of the nitrogen was available to the elk throughout the year. Based on estimates of elk nutrient requirements, the bluebunch wheatgrass in this study area, did not meet the nutritional needs of gestating or lactating elk. To meet the suggested maintenance requirement, the elk in this study would have to increase forage intake by 36g-40g/kg of body weight, which is highly unlikely since elk forage intake usually decreases in the winter with the increase of fiber in the diet.
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