The authors examined changes in winterfat (Ceratoides lanata) communities following 26 years of release from grazing pressure on ranges in southern Utah. Soil characteristics, plant cover and type measurements were taken from the grazed and ungrazed communities and were assessed using similarity indices. Soil characteristics were not significantly different between grazed and ungrazed treatments. It is evident that release from winter grazing has had major impacts on the winterfat communities examined. Following 26 years without grazing pressure, floristic diversity decreased within winterfat communities. Species diversity decreased in ungrazed plots as winterfat and Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis hymenoides) gained dominance in the communities. The authors suggest that it is likely these species are the primary decreasers under the present management system, demonstrating lowered tolerance to grazing. They conclude that it is reasonable to assume that damage to these species is due to later winter season utilization.
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.