Habitat Relationships of Basin Wildrye in the High Mountain Valleys of Central Utah

Abstract

Habitat relationships between stands of basin wildrye (Elymus cinereus) and adjacent sagebrush-grass steppe were studied in the Strawberry Valley of central Utah. Fifteen sites of basin wildrye and 15 adjacent sites of sagebrush-grass steppe were selected and sampled for various biotic and abiotic environmental variables. Stands of basin wildrye were dominated by this grass (90% composition). The adjacent sagebrush-grass steppe exhibited more diversity of species and life forms. Basin wildrye and badger diggings were correlated 95% of the time. Potassium concentrations (P<.05) and soil depth (P<.01) were significantly greater in the basin wildrye sites. Secondary successional patterns were observed on disturbed sites.