Long-term changes in an ungrazed bitterbrush plant community in southwest Idaho.

R. B. Ferguson, D. E. Medin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Over 23 yr of study, bitterbrush density decreased while canopy cover increased. Rabbitbrush density increased, but canopy cover remained relatively stable. Effects of slope exposure on vegetation changes were small. Variety of herbaceous perennials increased, whereas variety of annuals was static. Deer use was not a significant factor in vegetation change. Browse production probably decreased because of increasing age of bitterbrush Purshia tridentata shrubs. In light of slow vegetational change on bitterbrush-dominated winter range, land managers should consider rejuvenation of old stands by topping, or increasing stand density through revegetation.-from Authors

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)107-116
Number of pages10
JournalUnknown Journal
StatePublished - 1983
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Environmental Science
  • General Earth and Planetary Sciences

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