Changes in Crested Wheatgrass Ranges Under Different Grazing Treatments

Abstract

Crested wheatgrass on three dissimilar sites in Nevada was grazed by cattle on seven schedules over the first 10 years of grazing. Quick utilization was achieved by heavy stocking. Trend in range condition was inferred from reaction of grass, sagebrush and rabbitbrush based upon measurements of crown area, shrub densities, grass yields, seedling establishment and loop transect data. Climatic variations, site quality, initial density of grass stand, insects and rodents influenced the trend in condition associated with grazing treatments. Season of utilization influenced trend much more than did grazing intensity.