Krzic et al. compared the soil and vegetative properties of native bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) range to seeded crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) range to determine the effects of seeding crested wheatgrass in historically grazed pastures. Crested wheatgrass and native range pastures had similar species richness and vegetative cover, however, crested wheatgrass pastures had less species diversity, greater grass cover and less shrub cover. Soil physical properties (aggregate stability, bulk density, infiltration rate) were similar between the two range types, but soil chemical properties varied slightly due to greater C, N, and K at various soil depths in the crested wheatgrass pasture. The authors concluded that under heavy grazing, seeded crested wheatgrass pastures provide good quality forage while only slightly altering soil characteristics and decreasing vegetative diversity when compared to native rangeland.
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