Cattle Trampling of Crested Wheatgrass Under Short-Duration Grazing

Abstract

This paper tests 3 predictions that stem from the hypothesis that Angus heifers avoid stepping on crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) tussocks because the tussocks present an uneven surface upon which to walk: (1) hoofprints are located disproportionately more often in the open spaces between tussocks than on tussocks; (2) the disproportionality persists despite the frequency of hoof prints per unit area; and (3) the more tussocks are elevated above the surrounding substrate, the less they are trampled. The methods relate the observed and expected frequency of hoofprints on tussocks along 2 transects in a crested wheatgrass paddock. The results significantly support all 3 predictions. We conclude that under the conditions that existed, the hoof action hypothesized by some to be of benefit to short-duration grazing pastures was minimal, and so was the hoped-for destruction of standing dead vegetation that deters grazing.