Forage Production on Important Rangeland Habitat Types in Western Montana

Abstract

Peak standing crop and its variability were evaluated over a 3-year period on 35 sites representing 13 important grassland and shrubland habitat types in western Montana. Average production ranged from slightly over 600 kg/ha on the least productive habitat type to 2,900 kg/ha on the most productive. Good sites seldom produced more than twice as much as poor sites within the same habitat type. Although as much as 2 1/2 times more herbage was produced on a site during the high year than during the low year, the maximum yearly difference for all sites averaged only 1 1/2 times greater. Variation of vegetation classes and factors contributing to production differences are discussed.