The authors of this study used exclosures to determine the effects of elk (Cervus elaphus) herbivory in winter on Salix monticola in Rocky Mountain National Park, where increasing elk populations are altering willow communities. Willow production inside and outside of exclosures was similar, however, the willows that were exposed to elk herbivory were shorter, had a more compact canopy and had fewer, longer and thicker stems than willows protected from elk herbivory. Although willows were able to replace above-ground vegetation removed by elk through compensatory growth, root and reproductive growth were limited in browsed plants; indicating that the effects of elk herbivory that are not immediately apparent may actually be quite significant for willow populations. The results of this study suggest that the increased levels of elk herbivory in Rocky Mountain National Park are altering the morphology and reproduction of willows and will most likely have great impacts on willow populations in the future without management intervention.
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.