Sagebrush Reinvasion as Affected by some Environmental Influences

Abstract

Five chemically sprayed and 15 plowed and seeded areas in southwestern Montana were examined to determine the influence of several environmental factors on big sagebrush reinvasion. Sagebrush surviving the treatments was found to be the most important factor related to reinvasion. Plowing near or after sagebrush seed maturation resulted in heavy reinfestation of seeded stands. Sagebrush adjacent to treated areas was of no practical importance as a seed source for reinvasion. Non-sagebrush vegetation, slope, erosion, soil texture, and precipitation were seldom related to sagebrush reinvasion. Northwest exposures favored reinvasion.