A simulation model was created and verified using data from field experiments, to determine the compensatory growth of crested wheatgrass (Agropyron desertorum) after grazing, at different times during the season, and to determine the combination of grazing time and intensity after wet, dry, and normal winters that would produce maximum regrowth. The model predicted that the greatest crested wheatgrass regrowth would occur after mid to late-May defoliations, due to the morphological stage of the plant and the availability of soil moisture following defoliation. Grazing crested wheatgrass three times at all intensities during the season optimized tiller production, however, greater frequencies or intensities of defoliation generally reduced total biomass production, especially after dry winters. Therefore, the authors concluded that regrowth of crested wheatgrass does vary by timing of grazing and that the productivity of crested wheatgrass pastures will not increase under intensive rotational grazing management.
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.