Romo et al. examined the effects of cattle grazing and simulated grazing, at different times in the growing season on winterfat (Ceratoides lanata) growth and production to determine the appropriate grazing management for pastures containing this palatable, high quality shrub. Cattle grazing significantly reduced the density, frequency, and cover of winterfat compared to ungrazed pastures. Results of clipping studies varied slightly by year but suggested that in general the amount of winterfat regrowth declines when plants are defoliated later in the growing season and that the amount of regrowth after defoliation will affect plant production the following year. Therefore, the authors concluded that grazing systems having multiple or prolonged grazing periods, such as rotational or continuous, will not benefit winterfat plants as plants will most likely be defoliated more than one time per season and produce limited regrowth, therefore, they recommend deferring grazing until late October when damage to plants will be minimal since plants have already dispersed seeds and are dormant.
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.