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Plant species invasions are considered problematic due to their ability to reduce rangeland function, including biodiversity and the provision of environmental goods and services such as forage production. Invasion susceptibility of grasslands may also vary as a function of climatic region, with mesic grasslands more susceptible to invasion due to an increase in available nutrients.  In this study, detailed species composition data were used from approximately 120 grasslands across southern and central Alberta to evaluate the relative abundance of introduced species in relation to 1) agro-climatic gradients, including rainfall (272 – 437 mm) and soil conditions, and 2) the presence or absence of recent livestock grazing.  Community composition was assessed inside and outside of longstanding cattle exclosures that constitute the Rangeland Reference Area Program on public lands administered by Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. We assessed plant community composition, including the proportion of diversity comprised of invasive species, and related to the fore-mentioned factors. Results of this study will have implications for the ongoing management and conservation of native grasslands across the region.