Authors investigated the effects of greater snow goose (Chen caerulescens atlantica) grazing frequency (1 or 3 events), timing (early, mid, or late season), and feces (present or removed) on a grass (Dupontia fisheri) and a sedge (Eriophorum scheuchzeri). At the end of the summer, above-ground phytomass, NAPP (net above ground primary production), and number of tillers of both species were not effected by grazing (frequency or timing). However height and NAHP (net height) were lower than control sites and plants grazed once late in the season. Nitrogen concentrations were higher in grazed plots and increased in Dupontia with increased grazing frequency; while TNC (total non-structural carbohydrates) were lower in grazed plots, especially below ground concentrations in Eriophorum in the third grazing event compared to the first. Feces deposition had no effect on any of the plant variables measured (perhaps due to competition with brown moss). Although grazing had no net negative effect on biomass (due to increased leaf regrowth), it did not facilitate overcompensation.
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