Green and Kauffman examined species frequency, richness, evenness, and utilization in grazed pastures and ungrazed exclosures in 8 plant communities, over a 10 year period, in a northeastern Oregon riparian zone. Species richness and diversity decreased in the exclosers, as well as the frequency of grazing-tolerant exotic species. Utilization varied from over 70% in dry meadows to less than 3% in cheatgrass dominated stands. Grazing had a significant effect on the density and height of establishing riparian tree species; inside the exclosures, average tree height exceeded 1 m, while in the grazed areas average height was less than 0.5 m. Green and Kauffman suggest that late season cattle grazing, when compared to season long or other systems, results in less disturbance to riparian vegetation.
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.