Ripple and Beschta used historic data, photo records, and current vegetation measurements to determine the impacts of elk (Cervus elaphus) herbivory on willows (Salix spp.) before the extirpation of wolves (Canis lupus), during the period without wolves and since the re-introduction of wolves in the upper Gallatin range. Historical evidence indicates that elk damage to willows strongly coincides with the period of wolf extirpation and present data suggests that some willows are recovering from long-term elk herbivory since the re-introduction of wolves. Browsing of willows by elk was limited and willows were taller in areas where risk of wolf predation was considered high. Browsing was intense and willows were shorter where predation risk was considered low. The authors concluded that wolf re-introduction has reduced the intensity of elk browsing and enhanced the recovery of willows in some areas of the upper Gallatin range, suggesting a trophic cascade among wolves, elk and willows.
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.