Detling reviewed studies of plant and soil response to grazing by prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus), bison (Bison bison) and wild horses (Equus caballus) in Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota), Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (Wyoming) and the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range,(Wyoming and Montana). Detling concluded that ungulates in each area are managed at levels that do not degrade vegetation. While prairie dog colonies had greater forb cover, reduced canopy stature and lower belowground net primary productivity than uncolonized areas, they were also grazed preferentially by bison and antelope. Plant shoots in heavily grazed areas sometimes have high nitrogen concentrations, possibly the result of reduced translocation of photosynthates to roots. Reduced translocation should lead to carbon-limitation of microbes and enhanced mineralization as a result of reduced nitrogen immobilization. As long as prairie dogs do not reduce forage availability for ungulates to a potentially critical level, further control of their populations does not appear to be warranted.
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.