Native Forage Response to Clearing Low Quality Ponderosa Pine

Abstract

Clearing of low quality ponderosa pine in the foothills region of the Black Hills of South Dakota increased forage production 1,500 lb./acre on an east slope and 848 lb./acre on a west slope. Warm season grasses increased to a greater extent than did cool season grasses. If extensive areas were treated in this manner, management changes should be implemented to more efficiently use the increased production of warm season grasses. The increases in forage production plus the use or sale of removed timber should justify clearing low quality pine in this area. Pine reproduction will pose future management problems on cleared areas.