Effects of Cattle Grazing on Mountain Meadows in Idaho

Abstract

Vegetation changes which occurred during 12 years of protection from grazing were documented in mountain meadows of north-central Idaho. Plant composition changes were evident on all five sites studied, whereas herbage production was significantly less on the grazed than ungrazed areas at two of the sites. Season-long grazing by cattle has apparently been responsible for decreasing production and retarding plant succession. A change in grazing systems would likely increase the carrying capacity for herbivores.