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Fire temperatures can vary spatially due to fuel loading characteristics and burn conditions.� The influence of fuel loads, particularly that of sagebrush, on bunchgrass mortality following a wildfire is largely unknown.� In this study, we quantified pre-burn shrub fuel loads and its impact on bluebunch wheatgrass and Idaho fescue mortality.� We used a randomized complete block design with varying amounts of shrub fuel loads per plot. �Within each plot and for each bunchgrass species, two locations relative to sagebrush plants were selected: one within a sagebrush canopy and one in an interspace.� Each bunchgrass was instrumented with four, type-K thermocouples immediately before the burn at the following locations:� 2cm below the soil surface, at the growing point in the center of the plant, at the growing point within 2 cm of the edge of the plant, and 8-10 cm above the soil surface in the center of the plant. �Preliminary results suggest that bunchgrass plants within sagebrush canopies were exposed to lethal temperatures (>50� C) longer than bunchgrass plants found in the interspace.� Plots with greater sagebrush fuel loads, were more likely to create fire conditions severe enough to kill bunchgrass plants both within shrub canopies as well as interspace plants.� As we increase our understanding regarding the influence of Wyoming big sagebrush on bunchgrass mortality, we can better prioritize fire rehabilitation efforts and identify communities where pre-emptive restoration practices can be implemented.