The objective of this study was to evaluate the persistence of several cool-season grasses adapted to northeastern Saskatchewan under contrasting grazing pressures using the mob-grazing technique. Ground cover declined more rapidly under intense than under light grazing, but no interaction was found between grazing intensity and grass germplasm. The ground cover of the seeded grasses generally declined but at different rates during the trial, giving a significant grass x year interaction. Carlton smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis) declined significantly more than Parkway crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) during the trial. This study demonstrates some well-known responses of grasses to grazing that are not seen in conventional plot trials. Examples include the gradual decline of smooth and meadow bromegrasses (Bromus biebersteinii), rapid decline of intermediate wheatgrass (Elytrigia intermedia), and increase of bluegrass (Poa spp.) particularly under intense grazing. This study also found new information that will bear further investigation, such as the rapid decline of Baylor smooth bromegrass, the persistence of green needlegrass (Stipa viridula), and the difference in persistence among meadow bromegrass cultivars. Results suggest that new grass species and cultivars should be tested for persistence under mob grazing before they are recommended for use in pastures.
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.