0006
Native revegetation of previously cultivated land in the dry mixedgrass natural subregion of
Alberta, Canada.
Jennifer Richman1, Brad Downey2, Kevin France1, Paul Jones2, Brandy Downey1, Francois Blouin3
1Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, 2Alberta
Conservation Association, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, 3Prairie Conservation Forum, Lethbridge, Alberta,
Canada
MULTISAR is a multiple species conservation strategy that aims to conserve multiple species of wildlife,
including Species at Risk, at the landscape level, through a process that integrates range management
with fish and wildlife management principles. In the early 1900's a significant amount of native dry
Mixedgrass range was ploughed to make way for intensive agriculture. Currently, only 43% of the dry
mixedgrass natural subregion remains native and continues to be fragmented by human development. In
2008, the MULTISAR program partnered with a landowner to convert 57ha of marginal cropland back to
native grassland. A seed mix for the site was determined by assessing the ecological characteristics of
the native grasslands immediately adjacent and identifying the composition of the plant community. Seed
was broadcast at 10kg/ha followed by a light harrow in the spring of 2008. In the spring of 2009 the site
was sprayed with a broadleaf herbicide to combat weeds and 150 silver sagebrush plugs were planted in
low lying areas. In 2010 after the third growing season, species composition equaled 13.4% blue grama
(Boutelua gracilis), 13% northern wheatgrass (Agropyron dasystachyum), 10.9% June grass (Koeleria
macrantha), 6.7% western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii), and 4.7% needle and thread grass (Stipa
comata). Wildlife present on the site shifted from a community dominated by horned larks (Eremophila
alpestris) in 2007, to thirteen species identified in 2010 including species at risk like Sprague's pipit and
chestnut-collared longspur. Further research is needed to determine their nesting and rearing success on
reseeded native grasslands.
0015
Perennial Grass Establishment Following Cheatgrass Control Using Herbicides
Charlie D Clements, Daniel N Harmon
USDA-ARS, Reno, NV, USA
The introduction and subsequent invasion of Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) onto Intermountain
rangelands has resulted in increased frequencies of wildfires and severely altered native plant
communities. The objective of this study was to test the effectiveness of herbicides [Imazapic (Plateau),
Rimsulfuron (Matrix), Sulfometuron Methyl (Landmark)] on controlling cheatgrass and allowing for the
establishment of seeded species. Twelve plots, 25m x 50m, were established in fall 2010 and treated
with 1) Imazapic @ 6oz/ac, 2) Rimsulfuron @ 4oz/ac, and 3) Sulfometuron Methyl @ 1.75oz/ac rates and
replicated 3 times in a completely randomized block design with controls. The treated plots were fallowed
for one year and then seeded to Siberian wheatgrass (Agropyron fragilla ssp. sibiricum) at 7 lbs/ac
rate. Sulfometuron Methyl yielded the highest control of cheatgrass above ground densities from 24.7/ft²
down to 0.4/ft² (98.7%) followed by Imazapic, 17.6/ft² down to 0.8/ft² (95.6%) and Rimsulfuron 13.1/ft²
down to 1.1/ft² (91.9%). The control plots averaged 39 cheatgrass plants/ft². Siberian wheatgrass
seedlings emerged in March 2012 at fairly high densities (22.5/ft² in the Sulfometuron Methyl treated
plots) and by mid-June 2012 still yielded excellent results in some of the treatments. Sulfometuron
Methyl treated plots yielded 6.5/ft², followed by Imazapic, 4.1/ft² and Rimsulfuron, 1.5/ft². Control plots
yielded 1.1/ft² despite only receiving 6.2" of annual precipitation. These numbers are expected to decline
over the hot dry summer months, yet the Sulfometuron Methyl and Imazapic treated plots should result in
sufficient long-lived perennial grass establishment to suppress cheatgrass densities in the near future.
0016
Combustion dynamics of cattle fecal pats
John Derek Scasta, Dave M. Engle, John R. Weir
Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
The combustion of cattle fecal pats could have implications on focal micro-disturbances and production
issues associated with cattle parasites. In 2011 and 2012, we geospatially identified fifty cow pats in six
pastures (n = 300) and assessed combustion of each pat in relation to multiple variables, including: fire
weather (relative humidity, temperature, hours since precipitation); fecal pat characteristic (index of age,
volume); four time-lag fuel classes (1 hr, 10 hr, 100 hr and 1000 hr) and fuel load (at each pat). Multiple
linear regression using AIC was applied to determine the best combustion models, and stepwise selection
was used to select the best multiple regression model. Combustion of pats ranged from 3% to
62%. None of the fire weather variables were significant. Of the fecal pat characteristics, only the age
score index was significant, and of the fuel variables, only 100-hr fuel moisture and fuel load were
significant. The suggested regression model (r2 = 0.4266; p < 0.0001) was comprised of a three way
interaction (100-hr fuel moisture × age score index × fuel load). Simple linear regression of pat
combustion averaged for each pasture (n = 6) and 100-hr fuel moisture was highly correlated (r2 =
0.9587). These data suggest that grazing and fuel characteristics could be managed to optimize
combustion of pats for a variety of ecological or production oriented goals.
0017
Perceptions of Drought: How Ranchers in Arizona Prepare for and Respond to Drought
Greg Butler, George Ruyle, Mitch McClaran, Diane Austin
University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
Ranchers and land managers in Arizona must respond quickly to drought in order to employ the most
effective management practices for maintaining forage utilization without degrading livestock or range
conditions. I determined relationships between rancher perceptions of drought, practices used in
preparation for and response to drought, drought preparedness and sources of drought management
information. In order to evaluate these relationships, I sent a mail survey to ranchers and land managers
in eastern and southeastern Arizona. Respondents consider the most important practices used both to
prepare for and respond to drought to be rotational grazing, reducing herd size, adding more drinking
water sources and purchasing additional feed. Sixty eight percent of respondents believe they are more
prepared for drought now than they were 10 years ago in spite of worsening drought conditions. They
understand they cannot control the weather, but they can control how they manage their operation in
response to changing weather conditions.
0036
Development of South Texas Germplasm sideoats grama and comparison to previous releases
Keith Pawelek1, Forrest Smith1, Anthony Falk1, John Lloyd-Reilley2, Shelly Maher2, William Ocumpaugh1
1South Texas Natives, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A&M University-Kingsville,
Kingsville, TX, USA, 2United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS), E. “Kika” de la Garza Plant Materials Center, Kingsville, TX, USA
Sideoats grama is a widespread native bunchgrass in North America, which is often used in reclamation
plantings. Eleven seed releases of Bouteloua curtipendula have been made through the work of the
USDA NRCS Plant Materials Program and their collaborators. In addition to these tested materials, a
number of wild-harvested seed sources of sideoats grama are offered for sale by commercial seed
companies, however, no regionally adapted or locally originating (e.g. ecotypic) seed source of sideoats
grama has been available for restoration projects in the region known as south Texas. As a result, we
began work to collect, evaluate, and develop a seed release of a blend of ecotypic populations for use in
the area.
South Texas Germplasm sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula [Michx.] Torr. Var. caespitosa
Gould&Kapadia) was cooperatively released in 2012 as a Texas Selected Native Plant Germplasm. This
germplasm is a blend of six selected native populations originating from the Rio Grande Plains and
Edwards Plateau Ecoregions of south Texas. Following initial evaluation, selection, and isolated seed
increase of each component, South Texas Germplasm was compared to sideoats grama cultivars
originating from nearest the area of intended use of the germplasm: ‘Haskell', ‘Premier' and ‘Vaughn', in a
6-site variety trial utilizing transplanted and seeded experimental plots. South Texas Germplasm
exhibited significantly higher 90-day seedling emergence than available cultivars at planting sites within
the area of intended use, as well as superior performance in the transplant experiment at 2 of 3
experimental sites in south Texas.
0038
Who can take the heat: Caespitose grass response to increasing fuel loads
Ryan Limb
Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
Fire is a natural disturbance that frequents most landscapes globally and produces varying disturbance
intensities depending on several factors. Likely the most easily understood and manipulated factor
affecting fire intensity on rangelands is the herbaceous fuel load. Alterations in plant community
composition and structure in addition to decreased grazing intensities have led to relatively high fuel loads
on many western North America caespitose grass rangelands. Increased fuel loads directly increase fire
intensity, but also increase other factors that may be more critical to plant survival including residual flame
time, burn duration and total heat transfer. Numerous reports suggest that increased fire intensity reduces
bunchgrass survival, but often these studies were conducted in wildfire situations where exact fuel loads
and fire conditions were not knows. We planted four bunchgrasses native to western North America
(Achnatherum thurberianum, Elymus elymoides, Festuca idahoensis, Psuedoroegneria spicata) in 2.5 L
pots and maintained them in a climate controlled greenhouse. At 20 weeks old, we burned individual
plants under controlled conditions with herbaceous fuel loads ranging between 2000 kg∙ha-1 to 4000
kg∙ha-1. An additional cohort of plants was clipped to 2-cm height to simulate a grazing event. We
compared survival of individual plants among the different fuel load and clipping treatments and a nontreated control 21 days post-treatment and tracked the length of time to produce green biomass among
the surviving individuals.
0039
Impact of High Stocking Density Grazing on Livestock Walking and Resting Behavior
Alexander Smart, George Perry, Julie Walker, Cody Wright, Megan Mortellaro, Kevin Vander Wal
SDSU, Brookings, SD, USA
High stocking density "mob" grazing is a recent phenomenon that is being promoted by a few
practitioners, but has not undergone rigorous scientific testing. The objective of this study was to
determine the walking and resting behavior of cattle grazing at high and low stocking densities. The
study was conducted in 2012 on smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermus L.) pasture near Brookings, South
Dakota. Two replicate treatments consisting of livestock grazing at a high stocking density (200,000 kg of
live weight per ha moved three times per day) or a low stocking density (3,600 kg of live weight per ha
moved once per week) were compared. Pedometers were put on three heifers for each replication of the
high stocking density treatment and two heifers in each replication of the low stocking density
treatment. Pedometers recorded number of steps, the number of laying bouts, and time laying down in
one second intervals. Number of steps taken per day in the high stocking density treatment (3103 steps)
was 40% more (P=0.02) than the low stocking density treatment (2218 steps). Daily laying bouts was
50% fewer (P=0.01) for high stocking density (10) than for low stocking density (15). Daily resting time
was 10.5 hours for heifers in the high stocking density treatment compared with 11.1 hours in the low
stocking density treatment (P=0.03). It would appear that high stocking density grazing might cause
cattle to do more walking and expend more energy compared with low stocking density rotational grazing.
0054
Long-term alfalfa and clover recovery dynamics in northern temperate pastures sprayed with
residual broadleaf herbicide.
Amanda Miller1, Edward Bork1, Linda Hall1, Patrick Forsythe2, Bill Summers0
1University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, 2DuPont, Wetaskawin, Alberta, Canada
Beneficial legumes such as alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and white clover (Trifolium repens) increase the
productivity of pastures and quality of forage, and are important features of northern temperate pastures.
When pastures are sprayed for the control of broadleaf weeds existing legumes are removed from the
plant community. Although prompt re-establishment of legumes in sprayed pastures is a goal of many
land managers, this process depends on a number of different factors. Current re-cropping guidelines for
many herbicide bioactives are based on data from areas with different soil and climatic conditions relative
to western Canada. This study used long-term plots to track the degradation of herbicide bioactives
(aminopyralid and aminocyclopyrachlor) via the performance of key forage legumes: alfalfa and white
clover. Five long-term field sites were established to assess the ongoing recovery of legumes by
investigating changes in legume biomass for 3 years following herbicide application. Each experimental
site was organized into 4 replicate blocks of a randomized strip-split plot design. Mowing main plots were
randomly assigned to ½ of each block, herbicide subplots assigned to each ¼ plot, and seeding subsubplots (alfalfa, clover, or non-seeded) repeated between the mowed and non-mowed portions of
herbicide sub-plots. Herbicide bioactives were applied at two rates (0x or 1x) to herbicide subplots.
Legume performance differed modestly between plots sprayed with the two different bioactives, and more
markedly between mowing regimes. As re-establishment of legumes is an important goal, this information
provides insight into the expected return of legumes under field conditions.
0057
Impact of High Stocking Density Grazing on Litter Decomposition
Megan Mortellaro, Alexander Smart, Jiyul Chang, Michelle Ohrtman, Sharon Clay, David Clay
South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
High Stocking density “mob” grazing is a recent phenomenon that is being promoted by a few
practitioners, but has not undergone rigorous scientific testing. The objective of this study was to
determine the decomposition of litter from cattle grazing at high and low stocking densities. The study
was conducted in 2011-2012 on smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermus L.) pasture near Brookings, South
Dakota. Two replicate treatments consisting livestock grazing at a high stocking density (200,000 kg of
live weight per ha moved two times per day) or a low stocking density (5,800 kg of live weight per ha
moved once per week) for 2consecutive years were compared. A 2x2x2x2 factorial treatment design was
used to examine litter decomposition by stocking density treatment (high or low), liter type (fresh or old),
placement (surface or buried at 7.5 cm), and origin (high or low stocking litter) in-situ from August 2011
until mid-May 2012. After collection, samples were washed, dried and weighed. Fresh litter decomposed
17% more than old litter (55% vs. 47%; P<0.01). Buried litter decomposed 55% more than surface litter
(62% vs. 40%; P<0.01). There was no difference in decomposition between surface samples in high
(39%) and low (41%) stocking densities, but significantly more decomposition occurred in buried samples
at high (66%) than low stocking densities (58%; P=0.01). Results indicate that high stocking densities
cause a higher rate of decomposition and greater nutrient cycling below the soil surface.
0058
Cheatgrass percent cover and dieoff mapping in the northern Great Basin, USA
Stephen Boyte1, Bruce Wylie2, Donald Major3, Matthew Rigge4
1Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Inc. Contractor to the U.S. Geological Survey EROS Center, work
performed under contract G10PC00044, Sioux Falls, SD/Midwest, USA, 2U.S. Geological Survey, EROS
Center, Sioux Falls, SD/Midwest, USA, 3BLM Idaho—Great Basin Restoration Initiative, Bosie, ID/West,
USA, 4Arctic Slope Regional Corporation Research and Technology Solutions, contractor to U.S.
Geological Survey, EROS Center, work performed under contract G08PC91508., Sioux
Falls,SD/Midwest, USA
The Great Basin contains endangered ecosystems, and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is a significant
driver of change in this region. The presence of this invasive plant in shrub-steppe ecosystems results in
increased fire frequency, size, and severity, and it now dominates large portions of the ecosystems,
degrading the landscape. The conversion from diverse ecosystems to ones dominated by a single
species reduces habitat for wildlife and forage for livestock. In recent decades, cheatgrass dieoff occurred
across relatively large expanses of this region. We defined cheatgrass dieoff as stand failure causing the
absence, or reduced production, of cheatgrass during years of adequate precipitation in previously
invaded areas. Cheatgrass dieoff might be perceived as beneficial, but dieoff causes accelerated soil
erosion, loss of early spring forage, and unknown recovery pathways. To better understand cheatgrass
dynamics on a landscape scale and to provide science-based information on dieoff magnitude and
trends, we developed and analyzed a time series of cheatgrass percent cover and dieoff maps by
integrating satellite data into ecological models. When integrated with research that examines causes and
consequences of dieoff, our work can facilitate cheatgrass management, fuels management and fire
suppression strategies, and conservation/restoration planning. The percent cover model had an R 2 = 0.85
and the dieoff model had an R2 = 0.88. We also developed a long-term cheatgrass percent cover model
(cheatgrass site potential) and a cheatgrass dieoff probability model (accuracy = 88%), both of which are
flexible and which allow input of future climate data to estimate future cheatgrass dynamics.
0059
Seedling Success from Germination to First Year Mortality Event: Cheatgrass Versus Three
Perennial Grass Species
Dan Harmon, Charlie D Clements
USDA-ARS, Reno, NV, USA
Revegetation of Great Basin arid rangelands is an expensive yet largely unsuccessful
process. Establishment predominantly falls below requirements for cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum)
suppression (~10 plants/m2). Recent seedling demographic research suggests that seedling mortality
from drought and lack of germination are not the main cause of failure but inability to emerge after
germination. We examined germination, emergence and seedling survival of cheatgrass, squirreltail
(Elymus elymoides), bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) and ‘hycrest' crested wheatgrass
(Agropyron cristatum) seeded (October 2011) in multiple soil types at the Reno ARS research
location. Cheatgrass germination occurred by February (temperature low=27F/-3C: high=37F/3C, 12%
gravimetric moisture) and perennials by March (Low=33F/1C: high=41F/5C, 10% gravimetric
moisture). Maximum emergence occurred by April 18 (temperature low-=40F/4C: high=59F/15C). April
germination percent yielded: cheatgrass 27% (range=47-11), bluebunch wheatgrass 23% (range=45-8),
‘hycrest' wheatgrass 22% (range=30-10), and squirreltail 14% (range=30-6). Emergence resulted in:
cheatgrass 17% (37% decrease post germination), bluebunch wheatgrass 17% (26% decrease), ‘hycrest'
18% (23% decrease) and squirreltail 15% (7% increase). Seedling survival by late May was: cheatgrass
2.3% (87% decrease), bluebunch 1.25% (93% decrease), ‘hycrest' 2.55% (86% decrease) and squirreltail
2.15% (86% decrease). July success per seeding effort was: cheatgrass 3.3%, "hycrest' 2.5%, Squirreltail
1.3% and bluebunch 1.1%. We conclude that seedling mortality from drought is the largest contributor to
seedling failure (88%) comparable with germination (78%). Emergence contributed 20% failure. We
recognize potential effects of drought (Reno precipitation [October-May] normal 5.4" vs. 2011-2012 actual
2.6"). Results however concur with our years of wild land seeding experiences and observation of
seedling mortality.
0060
The fitness costs of delayed germination and diminutive growth response of cheatgrass
Dan Harmon, Charlie D Clements
USDA-ARS, Reno, NV, USA
The competitive ability of cheatgrass is often attributed to rapid early season germination. Our previous
research has observed germination occurring from October through June near the Reno Nevada ARS
research location. In a controlled experiment we allowed cheatgrass to germinate naturally (October
2010) and then later in March (2011). Maturation date and biomass were then compared. Plants that
had delayed germination matured later (~ 4weeks), had significantly smaller biomass (March
germination=0.48g, October germination=8.48g), and had a greater percent occurrence of seed smut
(March germination=22%, October germination=3%). These results indicate a large fitness cost of
delayed germination. To further examine the cost of delayed germination we conducted an experiment
with intraspecific competition. We previously found that in greenhouse competition experiments if native
annuals were allowed to germinate four weeks prior to cheatgrass germination (an anomaly in nature),
cheatgrass has very diminutive growth (biomass =0.57g after 24 weeks growth compared to 5g without
competition). In 2012 we conducted an experiment to determine these results with intraspecific
competition. We again found that if a target cheatgrass plant was started in a pot a few weeks after other
competing cheatgrass seedlings germinate it had very diminutive growth, indicating resource depletion by
the earlier germinating competitors. Soil nutrition analysis however did not find a drastic decrease in
nutrients below the growth potential of cheatgrass. This possibly indicates a growth response mechanism
triggered by earlier germinating plants occupying space, either above ground or in root zones.
0064
Defoliation and moisture effects on Dry Mixedgrass Prairie diversity, richness, evenness, and
composition
Tanner Broadbent1, Edward Bork1, Walter Willms2 ,1, Janice Cooke1
1University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, 2Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, Canada
With growing impetus for rotational grazing on semiarid rangelands, it is necessary to understand the
effects of defoliation regimes of varying intensities and frequencies on plant community diversity and
composition. Moreover, uncertainty surrounds grazing effects on semiarid plant communities with
indeterminate dominance of above- (i.e., space and light) and below-ground constraints (i.e., water and
nutrients) on plant growth, such as the Dry Mixedgrass Prairie, with both canopy dominant mid-grasses
coexisting with shorter species. We assessed plant foliar cover at three intervals (early, middle, and late
in the growing season) in plots under factorial treatments of high intensity-low frequency (HILF), high
intensity-high frequency (HIHF), low intensity-high frequency (LIHF), and control (deferred) defoliation in
combination with either ambient moisture and moisture addition in a fully randomized design at two sites
in the Dry Mixedgrass Prairie, including a xeric sandy site and mesic loamy site. Species richness,
evenness, and diversity (Shannon’s index) were assessed using repeated measures ANOVAs.
Defoliation effects on diversity and evenness varied between sites while moisture alone had no effect,
and all parameters peaked early in the growing season. All defoliation regimes promoted diversity and
richness in the loamy site, whereas only HILF defoliation under moisture addition promoted diversity in
the sandy site. Overall, species evenness among plots was markedly greatly under HILF defoliation.
Results suggest that defoliation regimes common to rotational grazing can promote plant community
diversity, richness, and evenness in mixedgrass prairie plant communities, but these responses depend
on edaphic conditions, such as soil texture and moisture.
0068
Alberta ESRD Rangeland Plant Community Classification System
Craig DeMaere, Mike Alexander
Range Resource Mangement Program, Pincher Creek, AB, Canada
In the mid 1980's Alberta's public rangeland managers identified a need for a more detailed inventory of
biophysical and productivity potentials of their land base. The historic zonal rates used to set livestock
stocking levels had been deemed inadequate to achieve proper management. Since that time much work
has been completed in creating a classification system for rangelands that captures enough detail to
facilitate management.
This work has led to the creation of range plant community guides. These guides utilize statistical
techniques that group similar field plots together within a hierarchal framework. Once a plant community
is established it is described by plant species composition and common physical characteristics (soil,
slope, aspect). An Ecologically Sustainable Stocking Rate is also calculated based on production
estimates and historic field knowledge.
Each individual pasture or distribution unit is inventoried by these established plant
communities. Currently inventories are carried out on most public land grazing dispositions in
Alberta. Once completed, these inventories provide a carrying capacity for the disposition. Carrying
capacity values are adjusted at the polygon and field unit level to compensate for access, management
and animal distribution to achieve a sustainable grazing capacity.
Other benefits from our classification work include: developing an understanding of successional
pathways between plant communities within the same ecological site, creating a basis of measure for
rangeland health assessments, and providing a measuring stick for reclamation efforts. This
classification system has also been utilized as a framework for multi-discipline landscape level
inventories.
0072
Effects of fire and herbivory on an endangered terrestrial orchid in a Texas post oak savanna
William Rogers1, Carissa Wonkka1, Dirac Twidwell0 ,2, Fred Smeins1
1Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA, 2Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma,
USA
Fire and herbivory are widely recognized as important in savanna ecosystems, however, little is known
about their effects on Spiranthes parksii, an endangered terrestrial orchid endemic to Texas post oak
savannas. We designed in a full-factorial, completely randomized field experiment to assess fire and
vertebrate herbivory on S. parksii. Thirty-two 1.5x1.5m plots were established in areas of high orchid
abundance. Treatments included i) burned and fenced, ii) burned, not fenced, iii) fenced, not burned, and
iv) unburned, unfenced. Pre-treatment data were collected and 2-m tall fences with 10-cm wire mesh
were erected in May 2009. Fires were conducted in July 2010 using a steel burn-box. We routinely
collected data on orchids, herbaceous cover, light, and soil moisture in each plot. Excluding large
herbivores did not have an effect on rosettes, but flowering stalk numbers were significantly higher in
fenced plots in 2010 (p=0.008) and 2011 (p=0.03). S. parksii rosettes in burned plots had greater leaf
area in 2010, but this trend reversed in 2011 (p<0.05). In 2011-2012, both rosette emergence (p=0.03)
and senescence (p=0.03) occurred later in burned plots. In 2010, unburned plots averaged one flowing
stalk per plot, whereas only one orchid flowered overall in the burned plots (p=0.01). Flowering stalk
herbivory was similar in burned and unburned plots, however with very few stalks emerging, it is difficult
to interpret whether fire affected herbivore activity. No flowering stalks emerged in 2011, but this was
likely due to historically extreme drought conditions throughout much of Texas prior to flowering season.
0073
A Unique Partnership In Rangeland Stewardship and Management:Alberta Environment and
Sustainable Resource Development and the Rocky Mountain Forest Range Association
Michael Alexander1, Dan Smith2, Roxy Wideman3
1Alberta Environment and Sustainble Resource Development, Pincher Creek, Alberta, Canada, 2Alberta
Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, 3Rocky Mountain
Forest Range Association, Nanton, Alberta, Canada
In 1998 Forest Reserve grazing permit holders and the Alberta Government entered into a unique
partnership, through a memorandum of understanding, with the goal of improving management and
stewardship of the Rocky Mountain Forest Reserve grazing allotments in southwest Alberta
Canada. Permit holders formed an association where membership is voluntary. The Rocky Mountain
Forest Range Association (RMFRA) collects a membership fee of $1.00/ AUM from Forest Reserve
permit holders. Current membership in the RMFRA exceeds 95% of the 259 Forest Reserve grazing
permit holders. The RMFRA works closely with Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource
Development to use its membership fees and any additional funds they can access to achieve their
mandate: To ensure the sustainability of livestock grazing in the Rocky Mountain Forest Reserve. Since
inception, the RMFRA has funded over $400,000 of range inventory work and over $850,000 in total
investment towards enhanced range stewardship, management and knowledge development. The
knowledge gained from RMFRA initiatives has improved the management of rangelands in the Forest
Reserve, and improved integration of grazing with other resource users. Recently the RMFRA has
expanded their program to include other resource management issues through research projects, grazing
trials and policy development on such topics as livestock behaviour, riparian management, prescription
grazing and grazing-timber integration. For their outstanding achievements and contributions to range
management, the Society for Range Management awarded the Rocky Mountain Forest Range
Association with a 2012 Outstanding Achievement Award.
0079
Restoring the Sagebrush Component to Crested Wheatgrass-Dominated Communities
Kirk Davies1, Chad Boyd1, Aleta Nafus2
1USDA-ARS, Burns, OR, USA, 2Oregon State University, Burns, OR, USA
Monotypic stands of crested wheatgrass, an introduced grass, occupy vast expanses of the sagebrush
steppe. Efforts to improve habitat for sagebrush-associated wildlife by establishing a diverse community
of native vegetation in crested wheatgrass stands have largely failed. Instead of concentrating on a
diversity of species, we evaluated the potential to restore the foundation species, Wyoming big sagebrush
in crested wheatgrass stands. We investigated the establishment of Wyoming big sagebrush into six
crested wheatgrass stands (sites) by broadcast seeding and planting seedling sagebrush across varying
levels of crested wheatgrass control with glyphosate. Planted sagebrush seedlings established at high
rates (~70%), even without crested wheatgrass control. However, most broadcast sagebrush seeding
failed. Only at high levels of crested wheatgrass control did a few sagebrush plants established from seed
at a couple of the sites. Subsequently, sagebrush density and cover were much greater with planting
seedlings than broadcasting seeding. Sagebrush cover, height, and canopy area were greater at higher
levels of crested wheatgrass control. High levels of crested wheatgrass control also created an
opportunity for exotic annuals to increase. Crested wheatgrass was rapidly recovering from control
treatments; suggesting multiple treatments may be needed to effectively control it. Our results suggest
that planting sagebrush seedlings can structurally and functionally diversify monotypic crested
wheatgrass stands to provide habitat for sagebrush-associated wildlife. Though this is not the full diversity
of native functional groups that previously occupied crested wheatgrass stands, it is a substantial
improvement over other efforts that have largely failed to alter these plant communities.
0081
Distribution differences of Larrea tridentata seed density in relation to Ambrosia dumosa and
Ambrosia deltoidea canopy cover
Ashley Shepherd, Jeffrey Fehmi
University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
Larrea tridentata (Creosote bush) is a long lived shrub widespread throughout deserts of the southwest.
Understanding germination and seedling survival patterns is crucial since a variety of wildlife species use
L. tridentata as a den or to avoid high summer temperatures and predators. Ambrosia dumosa (white
bursage) and A. deltoidea (triangle-leaf bursage) exhibit plant-protégé interactions with L.
tridentata. Seed density of L. tridentata was measured under both Ambrosia species to determine the
role of seed distribution and its effects on the nurse plant-protégé relationship. Further statistical analysis
of seed density concluded density was greater under both Ambrosia species canopy (live and dead)
compared to areas with no canopy cover, with 0.0326 seeds/cm 3 and 0.0048 seeds/cm 3 respectively
(p=0.037). Canopy type (dead or live) did not affect seed density as it only differed by 0.0016 seeds/cm 3
(p=0.421). An absence of L. tridentata seedlings was observed possibly due to specific germination
requirements, soil crusting, seed/seedling predation, but not the absence of seed.
0084
Effects of Gap Disturbance on the Seedling Emergence, Survival and Growth of Two Different
Native Species in China
Haiming Kan, Yingjun Zhang, Nan Liu
China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
Grassland restoration is an urgent issue in China. Reintroduction of native species has proven to be a
highly effective way for restoration of degraded grassland. A field study was conducted to investigate the
effects of gap disturbance on the process of two native species seedling establishment. Seeds of
Agropyron cristatum and Stipa krylovii were reseeded to artificially created gaps in a degraded steppe in
North China. There were seven treatments with each of eight replications: shoot gaps and shoot + root
gaps (10cm, 20cm and 40cm in dia.), no gaps (control). Shoot gaps were formed by removing
aboveground vegetation and belowground biomass without restricting the re-growth of neighbor roots
back into the gap, and then the shoot + root gaps were accomplished by using PVC pipe driven in the soil
of shoot gaps. Survival and growth performance after 90 days of seed sowing were recorded for both
species. Gap disturbance significantly increased the soil moisture, especially for shoot + root gaps.
Seedling emergence and survivorship of both species were greater in gaps than in controls. However, the
gap size showed a significant negative effect to Agropyron cristatum's survivorship. Growth performance
of Agropyron cristatum and Stipa krylovii differ in their response to gap disturbance. Gap-treatments had
positive effects on seedling growth (include seedling height, dry weight, and numbers of tillers and leaves)
of Stipa krylovii, but contrary of Agropyron cristatum.
0086
The Internet, Innovation, and the Range: Documenting Ranchers' Internet Use and Preferences
Shayan Ghajar, Maria Fernandez-Gimenez
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
The distribution and speed of internet access continue to improve, offering unprecedented ability to both
disseminate and locate information on rangeland management. Innovation diffusion theory suggests that
the internet is both an innovation that continues to diffuse throughout the United States, and a vehicle by
which innovations may be communicated with very little transaction cost relative to previous methods of
communication. Increasingly, scientists and educators are being encouraged to use the internet as a
platform for outreach to land managers such as natural resource professionals and ranchers. However, to
date, no study has comprehensively documented the internet use patterns of ranchers, and few scientific
studies have examined the internet use patterns of natural resource professionals. As both the quantity
and scope of rangeland management information available online continue to grow, documenting and
understanding the efficacy of digital outreach to natural resource professionals and ranchers becomes
more critical. This poster will present the results of a quantitative and qualitative assessment and
evaluation of extant rangeland outreach websites, along with the preliminary results of qualitative semistructured interviews with ranchers, Extension professionals, and webmasters about their use of the
internet.
0088
Perennial Grass Biomass is related to Grazing Exclusion and Ecological Site, but not Mesquite
Cover
Amber Dalke, Mitchel McClaran
University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
Mesquite (Prosopis spp.) encroachment is often believed to reduce grass abundance. We evaluated this,
accounting for grazing exclusion and ecological site, on perennial grass biomass at the Santa Rita
Experimental Range in southern Arizona. Three biomass (g/m2) measures were used: total per plot, total
covered with mesquite (Under), and total not covered by mesquite. Biomass was measured in paired
grazed and long-term (1917) exclosures within three ecological sites (12-16” precipitation): Loamy Upland
(LU), Sandy Loam Upland (SLU), and Sandy Loam Deep (SLD). Mesquite cover ranged from 0-40%. It
did not differ between grazing and exclusion or SLD and SLU, but was less in LU. Regressions between
biomass and mesquite cover were limited to SLU and SLD. There were few significant relationships, all
with low adjusted R-squared values suggesting biomass is unrelated to mesquite cover. Biomass was
related to ecological site and grazing exclusion using two-way ANOVA. Ungrazed areas had more
biomass, mainly from natives, despite low-moderate stocking rates since 1970s. There was more native
Under without grazing, but more introduced Under with grazing, suggesting introduced grass responds
better to defoliation under mesquite than natives. Native and introduced biomass (including Lehmann
lovegrass, Eragrostis lehmanniana) was greater in LU than SLU and SLD suggesting more clay results in
more plant production. Plains bristlegrass (Setaria macrostachya) had an interaction indicating LU
ungrazed had more biomass than all other grazing practices and ecological sites. Perennial grass
biomass was unrelated to mesquite cover between 0-40%, but was related to grazing exclusion and
ecological site.
0091
CHANGES IN INTAKE AND NUTRITIONAL QUALITY OF SALT CEDAR
Colt Knight1, Cody Scott1, Corey Owens1, Travis Whitney2
1Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX, USA, 2Texas Agrilife Research and Extension Center, San
Angelo, TX, USA
Recently weaned Boer-cross (n=20) and Angora (n=6) goats were individually penned and fed increasing
amounts of salt cedar (Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb.) at weaning. For the first 14 d of trial, goats were fed
2.0% BW of a basal diet. Following the first 14 d, goats were then fed the basal diet at 1.5%, 1.0%, 0.5%,
and 0.0% BW for 7 d sequentially in addition to salt cedar. Freshly harvested salt cedar was fed for 30
min each day prior to feeding the basal diet. The amount of salt cedar offered each day was increased as
intake increased. Weight, intake, and water consumption data were monitored. In addition, salt cedar
samples were collected during the months of June, July, August, September and October and analyzed
for in vitro digestibility. Boer-cross and Angora goats consumed 3.7 g ∙ kg-1 of BW and 3.8 g ∙ kg-1 of BW,
respectively, of salt cedar. Water consumption differed by breed at 0.8 L/d and 2.1 L/d for Angora and
Boer-cross, respectively, but did not differ by period. All goats increased intake of sal tcedar as the
amount of the basal ration was reduced. Both breeds lost weight after the final period of the trial when the
basal diet was reduced to 0% BW. Crude Protein of salt cedar ranged from 16.0% to 19.6%, and TDN
varied from 67.5% to 69.4%. Sodium content of salt cedar varied from 0.1% to 2.4%. Dry Matter content
averaged 32.2%.
0092
THE EFFECTS OF REPEATED GOAT BROWSING ON SALT CEDAR
Grant Rogers, Cody Scott, Corey Owens
Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX, USA
Goats increase intake of salt cedar (Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb.) when exposed to the plant in individual
pens at weaning. The purpose of this study was to quantify intake of salt cedar on pasture and to
determine if goat browsing will reduce the amount of salt cedar cover. Prior to release on salt cedar plots,
all goats were individually penned and fed salt cedar for 14 days. Salt cedar was fed each day at 0800
with refusals weighed to estimate intake. The amount of salt cedar was increased daily as intake
increased. Once goats were released on plots, bite counts were taken to quantify diet selection. Nine 6 X
12 m plots were established in dense stands of salt cedar. Three plots were stocked with 6 goats for 3
consecutive days. Each plot was exposed to goat browsing for 5 hours each day. Three additional plots
were stocked in the same manner and were restocked with 6 goats 30 days later. Three additional plots
were not stocked with goats and served as the control. In addition, 20 additional salt cedar plants were
individually tagged outside the plots. One half (n=10) trees were completely defoliated with vegetation
response recorded. While in individual pens, all goats increased intake daily. In addition, goats readily
selected salt cedar in plots. After the three days of foraging, goats reduced salt cedar canopy cover from
30% to 15%. Other results will be discussed.
0093
What should be in a recommended reseeding mixture?
Michael Schellenberg, B Biligetu
Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre, Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Canada
Increased diversity of plant species in seeded mixtures has been suggested as a means to increase
yields and potentially mediate effects of changing climate. The question arises if this is true what would
be the appropriate combination for reseeding rangelands? From a forage standpoint, the mixture should
include grazable plants such as legumes and grasses. In 2009, a study was initiated at Swift Current, SK
Canada using a full factorial random block design with 4 replicates to examine the potential benefit of
combining 2 grass species (western wheatgrass, green needle grass) with two legume species (alfalfa
and purple prairie clover) in mixture ranging from monocultures to all four species. The dry matter yield
results are presented for the year 2010 and 2011. With these two years having above normal
precipitation, alfalfa dominated plots (P<0.05) in which it was seeded. Examination of functional group
(legume vs. grass) indicates having 2 legumes has the greatest benefit for dry matter production. Seeding
legumes resulted in greater production (P<0.05) than grasses alone. The mixtures had trace element and
forage quality differences (P<0.0001) that indicated marked differences based on the presence of
legumes or grasses. This would suggest the usual recommendation of having a single legume with
grasses needs to be reconsidered from a production stand point as well as nutritional quality.
0094
INTAKE OF SALT CEDAR BY TWO BREEDS OF SHEEP
Zach Borroum, Cody Scott, Corey Owens
Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX, USA
Goats will readily consume salt cedar (Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb.) in individual pens and on pasture,
but it is unknown if sheep will consume the plant in the same manner. For this project, 10 recently
weaned Rambouillet ewe lambs and 10 recently weaned Suffolk ewe lambs were individually penned and
fed salt cedar daily along with a basal ration to meet maintenance requirements. In addition, 10 recentlyweaned Boer nannies were placed in individual pens and exposed to the same feeding regime. For the
first 14 days, salt cedar was fed each day at 0800 for 30 minutes. Refusals were weighed to estimate
intake. The amount of salt cedar fed was increased daily as intake increased. At 0900, the basal ration
(2.5% BW) was fed with refusals weighed the next morning to estimate intake. On days 15-28, salt cedar
was fed three times a day to estimate the upper limit of salt cedar intake. Animals were weighed every 7
days of the study, and water and a mineral supplement were available ad libitum. Both sheep and goats
readily consumed salt cedar and increased intake across the 28 days of feeding. All animals gained
weight throughout the study as well. It appears that both sheep and goats will consume salt cedar and
may reduce salt cedar cover once released on pasture. Other details of the study will be discussed.
0097
Forage quality variation among accessions of warm-season grasses of North America during
summer of semiarid western Canada
Bili Biligetu, Mike Schellenberg
Semiarid Prairie Agriculture Research Centre, Swift Current, Canada
Warm-season grasses with good forage quality can provide forage for cattle after cool-season grasses
have reached maturity in the semiarid region of western Canada. The objective of this study was to
evaluate forage quality of ecotypes of little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash), side-oats
grama (Bouteloua curtipendula (Michx.) Torr.), and prairie sandreed (Calamovilfa longifolia (Hook.)
Scribn.) during the seed ripening stage of plains rough fescue (Festuca hallii (Vasey) Piper), a coolseason grass. From 2006-2007, randomized complete block field plots were established for each of the
grasses near Swift Current, SK, Canada using accessions collected from the Canadian prairies. Forage
samples were taken for quality analysis in early July of 2010 and 2011. Eleven accessions of plains rough
fescue had similar crude protein (CP) (83 g kg-1), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (592 g kg-1) concentration,
but had different acid detergent fiber concentration (ADF) (ranging 327-366 g kg-1). Accessions of sideoats grama differed for ADF (ranging 263-284 g kg-1), but had similar CP (132 g kg-1) and NDF (638 g kg1). Accessions of prairie sandreed differed for CP (ranging 115-136 g kg-1), but had similar NDF (716 g kg1) and ADF (380 g kg-1). Little bluestem accessions differed for CP (78-101g kg-1) and NDF (669-696 g
kg-1) concentrations, but had similar ADF (686 g kg-1). Compared to mature plains rough fescue, side-oats
grama had higher CP with a similar fiber concentration, but the other two warm-season grasses contained
relatively higher fiber concentrations.
0105
Individual Tree and Plot Level Mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) Biomass Estimation Using Aerial
Imagery
Mustafa Mirik, R James Ansley, Brady Surber
Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Vernon, TX, USA
Both temporal and spatial magnitude, structure, and distribution of rangeland aboveground biomass
(AGB) are important inputs for many necessities, in particular for estimating terrestrial carbon amount,
ecosystem productivity, climate change studies, and potential bioenergy uses. Much of the remote
sensing research previously completed has focused on determining AGB in forested ecosystems with
little attention directed to estimate AGB in rangelands. Our objectives were to 1) identify and delineate
individual and plot level honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) plants from surrounding live vegetation
using two-dimensional (2D) geospatial imagery with a 1-m spatial resolution at two sites and 2) develop
regression models relating imagery-derived canopy area and field-measured single tree and plot level dry
AGB estimation. The regression results show that there were very close and significant relationships
between mesquite plant AGB and canopy area. The individual tree AGB to canopy area relationship was
linear with coefficient of determination (r2) > 0.94, whereas plot level AGB and canopy area exhibited
curvilinear relationship with r2 > 0.90. These results suggest that spectral reflectance recorded on 2D
high resolution imagery is suitable for assessing and quantifying mesquite AGB in rangeland settings.
0106
Feeding the pasture vs. feeding the steer: Interaction of fertilizer and supplement inputs to a
wheat grazing system.
Ryan Reuter, James Rogers, Jon Biermacher
The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK, USA
Producers may consider using several types of inputs in grazing systems, including both agronomic and
animal management inputs. This study sought to determine how these two types of inputs may interact in
a typical stocker cattle grazing program. Treatments were arranged in a 2x2 factorial with 2 levels of
fertilizer and 2 levels of soybean hull supplementation. Twelve 0.81-ha paddocks were established to
wheat (Triticum aestivum, var. ‘Endurance’) in the fall of 2011. In a completely random design, paddocks
received combinations of 56 or 168 kg per ha of actual nitrogen fertilizer, and soybean hull
supplementation at 0 or 0.75% of steer body weight (BW) per day (fed in three feedings per
week). Paddocks were stocked with 2 tester steers (initial BW 183 ± 9.5 lb) for 175 d. Tester steers were
shrunk in drylot for 16 h and then weighed on calibrated scales. Forage mass in each paddock was
measured twice per month with a calibrated electronic plate meter, and stocking rate adjusted with grazer
steers to maintain a forage allowance of 2.5 kg of forage DM per kg of steer BW. Dependent variables
were subjected to analysis of variance with paddock as the experimental unit. Fertilizer and
supplementation inputs both increased the number of grazing days, but neither affected ADG
. Consequently, both inputs improved total gain per acre. There was no interaction between the inputs,
indicating that a producer should evaluate the economic value of each input independently.
0107
Assessing disturbance regimes of northern temperate pastures using landowner surveys
Lysandra Pyle, Edward Bork, Linda Hall
University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
The sustainable management of pastures depends heavily on understanding the previous impact of
disturbances such as grazing, fire, fertilization, seeding, etc. For example, management actions such as
long-term grazing and broadleaf herbicide application for noxious weed control can eliminate standing
legume biomass, and even limit their long-term presence in the sward. Despite the importance of this
information, little is known of the relative presence, frequency and intensity of historical disturbance
regimes in the Aspen Parkland Natural Subregion of central Alberta. Here we report on the results of a
survey of pasture landowners completed during the summer of 2012 at 44 locations in and around the
Edmonton region. Management history was determined by interviewing landowners to gather information
on pasture age, planting history, fertilization regime, and disturbance history, including the timing,
frequency, intensity and type of grazing animals, etc. Summary results of this survey containing
landowner management behaviour will be linked in future work to soil and vegetation properties sampled
in the field in order to link pasture conditions (range health, seed bank composition) with disturbance
history. This information should provide range managers with improved information on the relative impact
of disturbance regimes on rangeland sustainability.
0108
Patch burn-learning: Rangeland and liberal arts education
Devan McGranahan
The University of the South, Sewanee, TN, USA
Rangeland management has traditionally been under the purview of land-grant universities and research
stations focused on productivity and technological development, often from a positivistic scientific
perspective. As rangeland management has developed a broader ecological - but no less scientific perspective, the questions asked and methods applied in rangeland science are of interest to schools
less associated with rangelands: small liberal arts colleges. Increasingly, liberal arts institutions seek to
integrate research and hands-on experience into undergraduate programs. The University of the South, a
small liberal arts college in Sewanee, Tennessee, applied patch burn-grazing to an old field pasture as
part of an integrated ecology and sustainable agriculture initiative. Goals included restoration and
maintenance of a locally under-represented habitat type (open grassland); hands-on student experience
with prescribed fire and cattle management; and ultra-local beef production. Students participated in
prescribed fire, cattle handling, and ecological monitoring of primary and secondary fire and grazing
effects. The on-campus pasture applied landscape ecology to the working landscape in which students
live and study, and the Sewanee community will enjoy campus-raised beef in the dining hall. The
application of rangeland management principles in the design and study of the grazing system at
Sewanee integrates ecology and agriculture in the Environmental Studies curriculum.
0113
To Plow or Not to Plow: Investigating Grassland to Cropland Conversion in the Northern Great
Plains Using Systems Dynamics.
Benjamin Turner1 ,2, Roger Gates1, Tim Nichols2, Melissa Wuellner2, Luis Tedeschi3
1South Dakota State University, West River Ag Center, Rapid City, SD, USA, 2South Dakota State
University, Brookings, SD, USA, 3Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
From 1997 to 2007, 23.7 million acres of grassland were converted to cropland. Fifty seven percent were
located in the Northern Great Plains (NGP). Since 2007, another 23.7 million U.S. acres have been
converted with the majority located in the NGP. These changes were likely driven by prices, U.S. farm
programs (e.g. crop insurance) and policies (e.g. ethanol mandates), technology, and social-cultural
changes of land owners and managers. The short term positive benefits have been increased food
production and returns to farmers. However, there could be unintended consequences through loss of
ecosystem services like water quality degradation, wildlife habitat loss/fragmentation, and decreased
carbon sequestration. The principal objective of this work was to: 1) identify structural features influencing
land use decisions, 2) quantify implications for land management, and 3) forecast potential unintended
consequences from those decisions. This will be achieved through triangulation of qualitative and
quantitative data using a systems dynamics approach. Triangulation is defined as a procedure to find
convergence among different sources of information to form themes in a study. The three spokes of
triangulation are: 1) qualitative information gathering through interviews with system stakeholders, 2)
using system dynamics modeling to link identifiable themes, and 3) quantitative data incorporation
through methodology to test themes and identify potential outcomes. Outcomes include: 1) evaluation of
land uses from financial, ecological and managerial perspectives, 2) identifying alternative intervention
strategies, and 3) creation of a decision support tool to provide long term insight on NGP land use
decisions.
0115
Above and Below Ground Nutrient Cycling in North Dakota Wetlands
Lindsey Meyers, Edward DeKeyser, Jack Norland, Christina Hargiss, Thomas DeSutter
North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
Nutrient cycling in wetlands provides crucial ecosystem services. Nutrient storage in vegetation and soils
can affect wetland quality and function. Over the summer of 2011, 55 wetlands were visited across the
state of North Dakota for the National Wetland Condition Assessment (NWCA). An additional 18
wetlands that were treated for hybrid cattail (Typha x glauca) invasion by sediment removal were sampled
in the summer of 2012. Plant and soil samples were collected at each wetland site. Samples were taken
at three different landscape positions in and adjacent to the wetland: upland, toe slope, and shallow
marsh. Plant samples were analyzed for Phosphorus, Carbon, and Nitrogen content and soil samples
were analyzed for Phosphorus content. Soil samples collected in conjunction with the NWCA were
analyzed for an additional 18 nutrients and soil properties. Several regional wetland assessments were
also completed at each site for comparison modeling: the Index of Plant Community Integrity (IPCI), the
North Dakota Rapid Assessment (NDRAM), and the Hydrogeomorphic (HGM) Model. Comparisons of
resource pools were made between landscape position, soil content, vegetation type, surrounding land
use, and wetland condition. Additional results will be presented.
0116
Survival Risk for Pronghorn Exposed to Wind Energy Development on Winter Range in SouthCentral, Wyoming
Kaitlyn Taylor, Jeffrey Beck
University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
Landscapes with high potential for wind energy development often coincide with suitable habitat for
pronghorn (Antilocapra americana). Evaluating the influence of energy development on pronghorn is
particularly critical in winter when they encounter elevated energetic demands. The purpose of our study
was to evaluate pronghorn survival risk on a landscape developed for wind energy production (Dunlap
Ranch [DR]) in comparison to an offsite reference area (Walcott Junction [WJ]) over winters 2010, 20102011, and 2011-2012 in south-central Wyoming, USA. In January 2010 we attached GPS-transmitters to
35 doe pronghorn in each study area. We recovered transmitters from dead animals located via fixedwing flights and from transmitters that detached from living animals at the end of our study. We used
57,660 pronghorn locations to model winter survival risk for individuals from the DR and WJ populations
using Cox's proportional hazards model. In our models we incorporated anthropogenic and environmental
landscape coverages thought to be important in predicting pronghorn survival. For example, we
developed a fence layer using satellite imagery to evaluate the role of fences on pronghorn winter
survival. We used the Kaplan-Meier product-limit estimator to estimate survival for each
population. Twenty-three pronghorn died in the DR and 10 in the WJ with the majority of deaths
occurring in winter 2010-2011 for DR pronghorn and in summer for WJ pronghorn. Survival (Ŝ) was 0.30
(95% CI: 0.14-0.46) in the DR and 0.68 (95% CI: 0.52-0.85) in the WJ at the end of our 2.5-yr study.
0118
Variables Influencing Off-Road Travel in Sonoran Desert Landscapes
Douglas Whitbeck
University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
Off-road travel can cause major concerns for land managers in arid environments such as those in
southwest Arizona. Proper travel management practices require an understanding of the terrain and of
those traveling across it. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software and remote sensing can offer
unique methods for approaching these management issues. In this study, GIS software was used to
measure relationships between the severity of existing roads and environmental variables in the San
Cristobal Valley of the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range in southwest Arizona. First, the accuracy of
high resolution 24 cm aerial was calculated by ground proofing in each soil type; the overall weighted
accuracy was 64.21%. The imagery was then used to identify off road vehicle (full size) paths, their
severity (low, moderate, severe, or authorized), and their intention (convenience or non-convenience).
GIS software was used to digitize these paths across the entire valley. Spatial statistics were then
calculated using geographically weighted regression. Route density by class and intention, slope, and
percent vegetation cover rasters were used in the regression model. Results show that the measured
variables have a significant influence on off road travel through the valley. Slope had the highest
correlation to density of routes of all classes and vegetation cover was the least influential on all route
densities. Using GIS and remote sensing, in this sense, is labor and time intensive but can produce
results for areas in need of improved travel and land management.
0122
Potential management of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) to increase native prairie diversity in
the Northern Great Plains
Jonathan Quast1, Shawn DeKeyser1, Amy Ganguli1, Steven Travers1, Cami Dixon2
1North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA, 2US Fish and Wildlife Service, Woodworth, ND, USA
Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) has invaded thousands of rangeland hectares in the Northern Great
Plains. Kentucky bluegrass and other invasive perennial grasses along with historic management have
changed the prairie from a heterogeneous to a homogeneous landscape resulting in losses of diversity
and richness. The influence of Kentucky bluegrass management efforts towards maintaining diversity are
addressed in this research by studying the techniques used by federal, state, private, and non-profit land
managers. Techniques used by the USFWS Native Prairie Adaptive Management Program as well as
more novel techniques being utilized by private, state, and non-profit managers included burning, grazing,
a combination of burning and grazing, and rest. Within these parameters, variation to the techniques also
occurred such as Spring, Summer or Fall burning, timing and intensity of grazing (winter/early spring,
High Intensity/Low Frequency, and adaptive grazing), and species of animal grazing (cattle and
bison). Plant community sampling was conducted using modified Whittaker plots to detect species
richness and diversity as well as using ocular estimation to determine percent cover within the plot on
each native prairie site. The number of plots at each site was determined based on the number of acres
with a minimum of three plots per site. Using a 10-pin frame, we estimated the percent of bare ground
within each plot as well. Statistical analysis reveals species diversity responses to management
techniques, and landscape level patterns in species and community characteristics.
0126
Complexity of Rangelands within Canadian Forces Base Wainwright
Tennille Kupsch
Alberta Envirnoment and Sustainable Resource Development, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
The Central Parkland Natural Subregion is a complex area in Alberta due to the mosaic of vegetative
communities ranging from prairie grassland to forest. To further add to the complexity, CFB Wainwright, a
military training base, is located in this natural subregion, consisting of 148 590 acres on which 28,400
AUM's of grazing can be allotted to four different grazing associations. The focus of the project was to
provide accurate and up- to- date vegetation and range resource inventories as well as recommendations
to address any issues or limitations in current range management practices to ensure the ecological
integrity and diversity is maintained on CFB Wainwright. Range Vegetation Inventory and Range Health
Assessments were completed to determine what communities are present on that landscape as well as
determining the health of those rangelands. The area is unique as it consists of majority of sandy soils
with high fire interval. Data was collected for six years with over 600 range inventories being completed.
After conducting statistical analysis, 32 plant communities were determined in that area, ranging from
early seral burnt communities to climax deciduous communities. Additionally 1 310 Range Health points
were completed; of those 451 were healthy, 540 healthy with problems and 319 unhealthy. By knowing
range health information in combination with digital resource mapping, appropriate management
strategies can be developed on areas that are of concern or deteriorating to ensure the ecological
integrity and diversity is maintained on CFB Wainwright.
0127
Monitoring Grazinglands with Satellite Imagery
Sarah Goslee
USDA-ARS, University Park, PA, USA
While Landsat data has been used to monitor primary production in range and pasture areas, such
monitoring has generally been intended to track broad changes across multiple years. With an 8-day
return time and 30m resolution, Landsat data can be used to assess intra-annual changes, even within
rotationally-grazed paddocks. Such detailed monitoring requires careful attention to the correction of
atmospheric effects and illumination angle; biases introduced by these factors can overwhelm the
changes of interest. Two cases are of particular interest: standardizing images of a single site within a
single growing season so that production can be tracked, and standardizing multiple scenes from a single
date to enable comparison of multiple sites. A standardized procedure for tracking primary production in
grazed systems has been developed and tested with retrospective data. This protocol has been largely
automated for use across large areas and multiple times, and can be used in conjunction with 250m
MODIS NDVI images to efficiently monitor regional and site changes in production, thereby improving
both farm management and regional planning.
0128
Micoclimate modification effects on the species composition of BC grassland communities
Donald Thompson0, Barbara Wheatley0, Michael Schellenberg0, Mathilde Leborgne0
1Lethbridge Research Centre, Lethbridge/AB, Canada, 2Grassland Applied Tech Centre, Kamloops/BC,
Canada, 3SemiArid Prairie Agicultural Research Centre, Swift Current/SK, Canada, 4VetAgro Sup,
Lempdes, France
Climate change models for interior BC predict warming and a shift in precipitation from summer to
winter. We simulated warming with open top chambers (OTC) and the precipitation shift by covering the
plots with a transparent roof in May or June, followed by applying the water excluded back in
October. We also included 3 clipping treatments to simulate season of grazing (June clip, Sept. clip. or
no clip). Treatment combinations (2x3x3 factorial design) were randomly located within each of 4 blocks
at three sites varying in elevation. At the lower grassland (LG) site the OTC's and rainout increased the
cover of Sandberg bluegrass while clipping reduced the cover of bluebunch wheatgrass. In the middle
grassland (MG) cover of bluebunch wheatgrass increased in the OTC's but and again decreased with
clipping. Rosy pussytoes increased with the May rainout. In the upper grasslands (UG) the OTC's
reduced the cover of timber milkvetch while clipping increased its cover. Species diversity(H') was
unaffected by any treatment at LG, was reduced by rainout at MG and increased by clipping at UG. Even
after one year of these treatments some changes in species abundances were noticable. Cumulative
effects of three years of treatments are under investigation.
0129
Restoring perennial grasses following downy brome (Bromus tectorum) control with burning and
imazapic in salt desert shrublands
Beth Fowers1, Thomas Monaco3, Christopher Call0
1University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA, 2Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA, 3USDA-ARS,
Logan, UT, USA
Downy brome degrades wildlife habitat and produces inconsistent livestock forage in salt desert
shrublands of the Great Basin. Most research has focused on reducing downy brome abundance at
small-plot scales rather than changing vegetation trajectories at larger scales. A large-scale
demonstration study was implemented in 2008 at two salt desert shrubland sites to evaluate how
treatments impact downy brome seed bank density, canopy cover and plant density, and seeded
perennial grass density. We applied single and combined treatments of late-fall burning to reduce litter
and destroy seeds, and late-fall imazapic at 71.6 g ai ha-1 to reduce seedling growth and survival to large
(8-15 ha) plots. Sites were then drill seeded with a mix of native and introduced perennial grasses at 7-14
kg ha-1 PLS. Downy brome seed bank densities were 10-fold greater in litter than soil fractions. Significant
treatments typically reduced seed bank densities by 50-70%. Downy brome density increased from 2001,500 plants m-2 in untreated plots from 2009 to 2011. Burning and herbicide independently reduced
downy brome density and cover; however, when combined, reductions were nearly always significantly
more pronounced. Although seeded perennial grass density significantly decreased from 2010 to 2011
across all treatment combinations, both burning and herbicide treatments significantly increased seedling
establishment, and when combined, between 4-6 plants m-2 were established in the burning/herbicide
treatment. Results indicate that impacting both reproduction and productivity of downy brome, combined
with successful perennial grass establishment alter the underlying demographic and competitive
processes that initiate desirable ecosystem trajectories.
0131
Sustainable Rangelands: Assessing contributions to food security
Kristie Maczko1 ,2, John Tanaka2 ,1, John Ritten4, Jack Morgan7, Netra Chhetri3, Lori Hidinger3, Matt
Reeves6, John Mitchell5
1Sustainable Rangelands Roundtable - University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA, 2University of
Wyoming - Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, Laramie, WY, USA, 3Consortium for
Science, Policy and Outcomes - Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA, 4University of Wyoming Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Laramie, WY, USA, 5USDA Forest Service Rocky
Mountain Research Station, Fort Collins, CO, USA, 6USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research
Station, Missoula, MT, USA, 7USDA ARS - Rangeland Resources Research Unit, Fort Collins, CO, USA
Food production from rangelands in the United States will face challenges, as the 21st century
progresses, from changing land use priorities, population growth, loss of open agricultural spaces, and
climate change. The latter may include increasing temperature, variable rainfall patterns, frequency of
extreme weather, severity of invasive species and pest infestations, and changes in livestock forage
quantity and quality. These impacts will not only affect food production, but other ecosystem goods and
services from agro-ecosystems including rangelands. Changes in U.S. food production systems may
ripple around the world because the U.S. is the world's primary grain producer and markets for many food
products are global. In adapting to climate change, farmers may relocate to follow favorable climatic
conditions, potentially displacing ecosystems and impacting biodiversity and other services ecosystems
provide. Concerns surrounding future food production in the U.S. also involve sustainable energy use,
genetic biodiversity, and environmental impacts. Land managers (e.g. farmers and ranchers) are among
the most important stakeholders in managing agro-biodiversity, food security and rangeland sustainability.
Key questions focus on quantifying how much food comes from rangelands and how much food
production will change over time due to environmental stresses or policy modifications. Sustainable
Rangelands Roundtable participants used an indicator-based system to assess rangelands' contributions
to food security and ecosystem services and modeled meat production from cattle, sheep and meat
goats. Relationships between meat production and resilience of rangelands to predicted changes in
climatic change, invasive species, fire regimes, land use policies, population, and income, remains to be
assessed.
0136
Using grazing management and fire to restore Texas Gulf Coastal Prairie
Josh Britt, M.M. Kothmann
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
A combination of high intensity rotational grazing and a plan for recurring prescribed fire were
implemented in Spring 2012 on a 940 acre degraded rangeland in the Gulf Coastal Prairie region of
Texas. The area receives about 45 inches of annual precipitation. The soils are primarily loamy sands
and sandy loams, with scattered clays causing water to pond in the lower areas. The rotational grazing
system utilizes a five-paddock herd rotation. Three paddocks of roughly equal area represent
approximately half of the acreage, with one large paddock representing the other half. The smaller
paddocks are grazed an average of 7 days and the large paddock up to one month. Length of stay varies
depending on forage availability and rate of growth. Monitoring of the pasture through cover data and bimonthly photopoints and utilization estimates began in Summer 2011. The goal of this project is to shift
the species composition from various introduced Paspalum species back to native grass species and
reduce the abundance of the invasive shrub Macartney rose (Rosa bracteata), while maintaining or
increasing the number of animals in the cattle herd. It is hypothesized that over time these practices will
promote plant succession and restore the area to a more diverse ecosystem that will support sustainable
quail populations, increase the carrying capacity for livestock, and improve overall system health and
stability. Initial data showed mean rose canopy cover to be 20%. Total mean canopy cover for all shrub
species was 23%. Other initial results will be presented.
0141
Predicting litter and live herb fuel consumption during prescribed fires in native and old-field
upland pine savannas of the southeastern United States
Angela Reid1, Kevin Robertson1, Tracy Hmielowski2
1Tall Timbers Research Station and Land Conservancy, Tallahassee, FL, USA, 2Louisiana State
University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
This project identified predictors of fuel consumption for the dominant fuel bed components (litter (<0.6cm diameter dead material) and live herbs) during 217 prescribed fires in native longleaf pine (Pinus
palustris Mill.) and old-field loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) - shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata Mill.) savannas in
the southeastern United States. Additionally, these data were used to validate the First Order Fire Effects
Model (FOFEM) fuel consumption computer model using custom and default fuel loads. Regression
models using empirical data suggested that litter and live herb fuel consumption can be predicted by the
combined effects of prefire litter and live herb fuel loads, litter and live herb fuel moisture, litter fuel bed
bulk density, season of burn, years since fire, days since last rain ≥0.64 cm, relative humidity, energy
release component, community type, pine and hardwood basal areas, and the Keetch-Byram drought
index. FOFEM's prediction of fuel consumption for litter, live herbs, and duff combined using default fuel
loads was 1.5 times the measured fuel consumption (where duff fuel load was zero). Refinement of
FOFEM's fuel load and consumption calculations in the studied community types using the newly
collected data and suggested model improvements would provide more accurate air quality inventories
and assist in guiding appropriate regulation of prescribed fire. Validation of widely used fuel models is
important to undertake for all ecosystems using prescribed fire as a management tool to ensure the best
possible predictions.
0142
In situ disappearance of bypass DNA from sagebrush plants in cattle by qPCR
Jose Alberto Perez-Amaro1, David Bohnert2, Tim DelCurto3, Chad Boyd4, Jeff Leonard1, Yudith NietoCarrillo1, Elieter Gricel Urena-Armas5, Ricardo Mata-Gonzalez1
1Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA, 2Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Burns, OR,
USA, 3Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Union, OR, USA, 4U.S.D.A.-ARS, Eastern Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Burns, OR, USA, 5University of Papaloapan, Loma Bonita, OC, Mexico
Studying how plant DNA is affected by livestock digestion is an intrinsic, poorly understood aspect of
molecular dietary analysis in sagebrush ecosystems. The aim of this study was to measure In situ DNA
disappearance at various time intervals by the Cy0-qPCR method. In this experiment, values of
sagebrush DNA digestibility of freeze-dried and oven-dried ground materials were determined for
triplicates using nylon bags containing 4 g of sagebrush leaves. Plant leaf tissues were digested in the
reticule-rumen at 00, 4, 8, 16, 24, 36 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours and DNA was extracted by QIAamp DNA
mini Kit. To describe progression of DNA degradation, fluorogenic probes and primers were used to
detect and quantify the residual amplifiable NTS 5S rRNA region of sagebrush species in Real-Time
qPCR analysis. Due to the sensitivity of analysis on starting DNA template, 10 ng of extracted DNA was
measured using the Qubit 2.0 fluorometer. DNA disappearance through incubation times differed among
treatments, and in general, were higher in the freeze-dried method (P<0.05). The extents of percentage
of DNA degradation in the freeze-dried samples were 2.79%, 58.28% and 73.97% as opposed to 1.74%,
32.30% and 43.73% in the oven-dried samples at 4, 48, and 120 h, respectively. In conclusion, the Cy0qPCR method makes it possible to determine the presence of un-degraded and amplifiable DNA regions
from sagebrush genome. By quantifying bypass DNA, it may be possible to develop and apply correction
factors for DNA-based cattle diet determinations.
0144
Two year regrowth patterns of three key forage species in the southern interior of British
Columbia
Vanessa Volpatti, Wendy Gardner
Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
In the southern interior of British Columbia, Canada the dominant grass species that exist change along
an elevation gradient with bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneri spicata) dominating in the lower
grasslands, rough fescue (Festuca campestris) in the upper grasslands, and pinegrass (Calamagrotis
rubescens) in the forested areas. Understanding how these species respond to grazing, specifically
intensity and timing, is important for management. For this study, a site excluding grazing was located for
each species: lower grasslands (550 m) for bluebunch wheatgrass, upper grasslands (900m) for rough
fescue, and in the interior douglas-fir zone (1000m) for pinegrass and data was collected over two
growing seasons, 2011 and 2012. At each site 30 plants where selected and randomly assigned a
treatment of a one-time clipping at a 40 or 70 percent removal of photoshynthetic material. After clipping,
10 tillers per plant were marked and these tillers were measured for regrowth 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 days
after clipping. Probes at the base of each plant were used to collect soil moisture and temperature. In
year one, each species responded differently. Bluebunch wheatgrass clipped at a higher intensity regrew
significantly slower than the low intensity treatment while rough fescue and pinegrass showed no
significant treatment effect. In year 2, there were no treatments effects on any of the species. Soil
moisture was shown to have a relationship with regrowth. Varied regrowth between species and years
helps to show that adaptive management for individual species may work better than a single
management strategy.
0146
Land degradation in a Mexican tropical dryland: An evaluation using state-and-transition models
Hector Godínez-Alvarez, Itzel Cabral, Mayra Hernández, Rafael Lira, Daniel Muñoz, Leticia RíosCasanova
UBIPRO, FES Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla, Estado de México,
Mexico
Land degradation is an environmental problem in drylands resulting from factors such as climate variation
and human activities. The state-and-transition models are synthetic descriptions of the dynamics of
vegetation and soil surface at particular sites. They are used to determine the processes driving
ecosystems and the way in which management affect such processes. They are also used to determine
the factors associated with land degradation. The Zapotitlan Valley is a tropical dryland in central Mexico
with land degradation problems because land-use change and habitat fragmentation. The goal of this
work was to evaluate land degradation using state-and-transition models. The work was conducted in
fluvial terraces that were classified according to soil texture and vegetation cover. At each terrace, we
conducted 3-5 transects to obtain data on soil properties, vegetation traits, and human activities. With
these data quantitative indicators were calculated and models were built. Indicators suggested that
terraces differ in vegetation and soil traits. There were no clear differences in human activities. The model
has four states (closed canopy mesquite shrublands, open canopy mesquite shrublands, field crops, and
badlands) and five transitions among them. There were two reversible transitions. The processes
associated to land degradation are primary productivity, water and nutrient cycles. The management
actions affecting these processes are firewood collection and sowing. This is the first model proposed to
understand land degradation in this region; therefore it is necessary to continue improving it through
historical information, local and ecological knowledge, and experimental data.
0149
The interactive effects of prescribed fire and ungulate grazing on bankrupt bush (Seriphium
plumosum) in a South African highveld grassland.
Michele D. Clark1, William E. Rogers1, Carissa L. Wonkka1, Deseri Nally1, W. Richard Teague2, Urs P.
Kreuter1, James P. Muir3
1Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA, 2Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension
Center, Vernon, Texas, USA, 3Ukulima Farm Research Center-Borlaug Institute, Alma, Limpopo Province,
South Africa
Encroachment by Seriphium plumosum (bankrupt bush) is degrading South African rangeland
ecosystems by converting productive grasslands into largely unpalatable shrublands. The factors
responsible for its increased abundance are poorly understood and experimental assessments of
potential management strategies are lacking. We established a full-factorial, completely randomized
experiment to examine the interactive effects of prescribed fire and ungulate grazing on Seriphium and
herbaceous community structure in a South African highveld grassland. The experiment was located on a
leased pasture with 400 cow/calf pair of Bonsmara cattle. We established sixteen 10x10m plots.
Randomly assigned treatments included i) burned and fenced, ii) burned, not fenced, iii) fenced, not
burned, and iv) unburned, unfenced. Pre-treatment Seriphium demography, plant community, and soils
data were collected and grazing exclosures were erected in July 2012. Cattle exclosures consisted of 4strands of evenly spaced barbed wire to a height of 2m. Independent prescribed fires were conducted for
each burned plot in July 2012. Flame heights frequently exceeded 4m and aboveground foliage was fully
consumed including all the leaves of Seriphium shrubs. This study will provide important insights into the
factors influencing Seriphium growth and survival and will assist with the development of management
efforts that attempt to mitigate its continued degradation of South African rangelands.
0154
Evaluating Festuca campestris plug establishment along slope environments
Laura McGregor1, Steve Tannas2
1University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, 2Foothills Fescue Reseach Institute, Calgary, Alberta,
Canada
Current restoration techniques in Alberta's threatened fescue grasslands are not often successful due to
low seedling survival, high cost and limited availability of seed. The goal of this research was to evaluate
the establishment and vigour of Festuca campestris (foothills rough fescue) plugs in various
microclimates along slopes in Southern Alberta. A field experiment was initiated in June 2011 on two
separate slopes with three slope locations (lower, middle, upper) outside of Cochrane, Alberta and a
separate upland control on black chernozemic soil near Cremona, Alberta for comparison to the lower
slope positions. A total of 36 plots were planted with a split-plot design, half Festuca campestris planted
alone and half planted with Potentilla fruticosa (shrubby cinquefoil). Variables monitored on each slope
position consisted of soil type, available NPK, CEC, pH, organic matter and monthly soil moisture Vigour
measurements of tiller number, height and basal diameter and climatic data were collected from June
2011 to August 2012. Initial results show that the plug survival rate was high at all sites. There was an
increase in mean plant volume and tillering from June to August of year one and then again from year
one to year two. The plots on black chernozemic soil had significantly more tillering then the lower slope
position. Overall Festuca campestris plugs were able to establish in challenging microclimates along a
slope and other factors such as competition may influence plug growth. The use of plugs shows promise
in the restoration of rough fescue plant communities.
0155
Reduced Establishment of Canada Thistle in Planted Grasslands Using a High Density of Planted
Forbs
Jack Norland1, Cami Dixon2, Kristine Askerooth3, Kyle Kelsey4, Guojie Wang5
1North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA, 2USFWS/Dakota Zone Biologist, Woodworth, ND, USA,
3Tewaukon NWR, Cayuga, ND, USA, 4Madison Wetland Management District, Madison, SD, USA,
5Central Grasslands Research Extension Center, Streeter, ND, USA
The control of Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) in new grassland plantings is costly often reducing
desirable forbs and the vegetative diversity of the planted grassland. Spiking native seed mixtures used
for planting grasslands with a high density, 4-10 times the typically recommended seeding density (300
seeds/m2), of 3-5 native forbs that are functionally similar to Canada thistle is theorized to reduce Canada
thistle establishment in planted grasslands. The use of functionally similar species at high seed densities
is to provide an aversive environment for Canada thistle limiting their establishment. An experiment to
test the spiked method consisted of small-scale (4 x4 m) and large-scale (>400 m2) plot experiments with
native and spiked plantings in a paired plot design. The small plot spiked treatment had significantly
lower (p<0.05) percent Canada thistle cover (spiked 4.6, native planting 14.9) and density (spiked 4.9,
native planting 11.6 plants/m 2). The large plots had the same response with the spiked treatment having
significantly lower (p<0.05) percent cover of Canada thistle (spiked 2.8, native planting 6.3) and density
(spiked 5.3, native planting 13 plants/m 2). A survey of the large plots found the spiked treatment had a
significantly lower amount of area with less than 10% cover of Canada thistle. The results indicate that
the spiked treatments reduced the establishment of Canada thistle immediately after seeding. An
economic analysis found that the cost of the spike treatment would be similar to the cost of spraying
Canada thistle in the native planting over a 10 year period.
0156
Soil seed bank dynamics of white locoweed (Oxytropis sericea) infested plots in relation to
targeted grazing with sheep and herbicide application
Stephanie Lopez, Andres Cibils, Laura Goodman, Laurie Abbott, Keisha Yazzie, Kirk McDaniel
New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
White locoweed exhibits extreme population cycles driven by germination pulses that are supported by
vigorous soil seed banks (SSB) which can contain several thousand seeds per m 2. Given that sheep
avidly consume locoweed flowering heads and seed pods, we predicted that targeted grazing (TG) would
be as effective as herbicides in reducing the number of viable seeds in the SSB at three sites in northern
New Mexico. Thirty-six soil cores were collected from nine 200m 2 plots that had received: a) TG with
sheep in two consecutive growing seasons; or b) a single application of Picloram P+D; or c) control.
Sheep fecal pellets were also collected from all grazed plots. White locoweed seeds were manually
separated from soil cores and fecal samples, classified into current (light) or previous season (dark) seed
crops, counted, and then subjected to surface sterilization and mechanical scarification. Seeds were then
placed in a germinator for six weeks. Daily temperature cycles were set at 7 oC for 10h and 13oC for 14h
to simulate spring day and night soil temperatures at our research sites. Germination rates of seeds
recovered from TG (89%) and control (88%) plots were similar. A trend toward reduced germination rates
in herbicide plots (77%) was observed (P=0.11). Proportion of current vs. previous season seeds was
similar among treatments. None of the 23 seeds recovered from sheep fecal pellets germinated. Number
of white locoweed seeds in the SSB and their germination rates were not reduced with TG but were
slightly diminished with herbicide application.
0158
Linkages between livestock-raising and acequia irrigation farming in rural communities of
northern New Mexico: a preliminary assessment
Stephanie Lopez, Andres Cibils, Ursula Smedly, Steven Guldan, Alexander Fernald
New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
Acequia irrigation farming communities of northern NM were founded over 300 years ago during the
Spanish colonial period. We conducted a preliminary study to assess the role played by livestock-raising
in three farming communities of the area. We conducted unstructured interviews with community leaders
and analyzed long-term livestock inventories, precipitation and Palmer Drought Severity Index records,
and hay production data. State, county (Rio Arriba and Taos), and watershed level data were obtained for
livestock inventories. Climate and crop production were only assessed at the county level. Community
leaders whom we spoke with raised livestock and viewed this activity as a central component of their
agricultural enterprise. Livestock-raising was characterized as providing financial stability in the face of
climatic uncertainty. Farming in the valley and livestock-raising on upland rangelands were described as
inextricably linked endeavors since the days of Spanish settlement. Reduced participation in livestockraising by younger generations was viewed with concern. Long term downward trends in state and county
livestock inventories were positively correlated with each other. Time series breakpoints (permanent
change in numbers) in livestock inventories differed by livestock species and county, and appeared to be
associated with droughts only in the case of cattle. Availability of labor, public land use policy, and
termination of government incentive programs were the presumed causes of breakpoints in sheep
inventories. Correlation between acres in hay production and cattle inventories at the county level
became stronger during the 2000-2010 decade suggesting a possible increase in the strength of valleyupland linkages in recent years.
0159
Impact of Temperature, Defoliation and Competition on a Selected C3 and C4 Grass
Mahesh Khadka
Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, Canada
Plant communities are impacted by climate change and an increase in global temperature may impact
how native grass species respond to inter and intra specific competition and defoliation. A greenhouse
study was conducted with the objective of understanding the competition and impact of grazing
on a native warm season and cool season grass under different temperature regimes. Temperature,
competition and defoliation were altered on one C3- western wheat grass (Agropyron smithii) and one
C4- little blue stem (Andropogan scoparius) and total above and below ground production was
measured. There were two temperature treatments: 20°C and 30°C, and 5 competition treatments: C3 (1
plant/pot), C3 (4 plants/pot), C4 (1 plant per/pot), C4 (4 plants/pot), and C3/C4 combination (2 plants of
each per pot). The defoliation treatments altered frequency (either clipping 1 time or clipping 3 times each
a week apart) and intensity (either moderate with removal of 50% of vegetation or heavy with removal
of 75% of vegetation). This resulted in a total of 5 different defoliation treatments: control (no clipping),
low frequency-moderate intensity, high frequency-moderate intensity, low frequency-high
intensity, and high frequency-high intensity. All treatments were replicated 8 times. The results showed
that western wheatgrass out competed little blue stem in growth and total biomass production but the
difference was less under the higher temperature treatment. For both species biomass production was
not affected if the frequency of defoliation was low, regardless of intensity.
0160
Environmental characterization of rangeland pastures in piñon-juniper grassland mosaics in
central New Mexico
Vanessa J. Prileson, Andrés F. Cibils, Michaela Buenemann, Caitriana M. Steele, Eric J. Schollegerdes,
Darren K. James, Richard L. Dunlap, Shad H. Cox, Wendy Taylor, Stephanie López
New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
Describing the biotic and abiotic characteristics of rangeland grazing environments is critical to explaining
spatial distribution of grazing livestock. We characterized the environment of two adjacent, 300 acre
pastures containing piñon-juniper grassland mosaics during spring, summer, fall, and winter in two
consecutive years. Landsat-derived NDVI, herbaceous vegetation cover, forage biomass, chemical
(nutrient) composition, and weather variables were measured in grassland ridges, grassland swales,
open woodlands (8 – 19% tree cover) and closed woodlands (32 – 37% tree cover). A mixed-model
ANOVA was used to analyze the effects of year, season, and vegetation type on all environmental
variables. Most vegetation and weather variables varied across seasons (P<0.05), year (P<0.05), and
vegetation types. NDVI and forage NDF values were higher in woodlands than in grasslands (P<0.05)
while forage biomass, CP content, and herbaceous vegetation cover were higher in grasslands than
woodlands (P<0.05). Forage biomass and chemical composition of open woodlands and grasslands was
similar (P>0.05). Closed woodlands had detectably less herbaceous cover and forage biomass
(P<0.01). Forage chemical composition did not differ (P>0.05) between open and closed
woodlands. Average ambient temperatures were similar in woodlands and grasslands (P>0.05) across all
seasons. Maximum ambient temperatures and average wind chill corrected temperatures were warmer in
woodlands than in grasslands (P<0.01) across all seasons. Average wind speed decreased with
increasing tree cover (P<0.01). Results confirm earlier studies at this site, which suggested open
woodlands can offer similar quality and quantity of forage and more opportunities for thermal comfort in
cooler weather compared to adjacent grasslands.
0162
COMPARING LIVESTOCK GRAZING EFFECTS ON PLANT FOLIAR COVER IN MONGOLIA ACROSS
ECOLOGICAL SITES AND ZONES
Chantsallkham Jamsranjav, Robin Reid, Maria Fernandez-Gimenez
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
Mongolia's rangelands span a range of ecological zones expected to respond differently to grazing, with
implications for appropriate grazing management and policy. Few studies have compared grazing effects
across multiple ecological zones in Mongolia or accounted for within-zone differences in grazing
responses by soil type. To address these gaps, we investigated the effects of livestock grazing on plant
cover within different ecological sites in three Mongolian ecological zones. We measured cover by by line
point intercept in plots located along grazing gradient from herder winter camps at 100 m, 500 m and
1000 m from each camp, assuming grazing pressure is highest close to the winter camp and decreases
with distance away from the camp. Ecological sites were classified based on soil and environmental
characteristics sampled at each plot. Based on existing theories of rangeland dynamics and past
research in Mongolian ecosystems, we hypothesized that a) plots closest to impacts points will be
associated with a shift from grasses to forbs, and from palatable to unpalatable plants relative to more
distanst plots, and b) these effects will be strongest in the forest-steppe and weakest in the desert-steppe.
Field observations adn preliminary analyses suggest these hypothese are supported by our data. By
evaluating rangeland dynamics in relation to both soils and ecological zones, this study contributes to
development of appropriate management and policy responses for different ecological zones.
0165
Seed production of Jojoba in the Matorral area of central Sonora, Mexico.
Martha Martin1, Fernando Ibarra1, Lilia Alcaraz3, Salomon Moreno1, Francisco Denogean1, Felix Ayala1,
Fernando Ibarra1, Jassany Fuentes1, Heriberto Leiva1, Ramon Amarillas1
1University of Sonora, Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico, 2University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico,
3CIBNOR, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is a native forage shrub important for livestock and wildlife in the Sonoran
Desert. Recently, severe droughts, frost and overgrazing have caused a drastic density decline. Seed
production under irrigation has declined and is no longer an option and information on seed production of
natural communities for range rehabilitation is lacking. The objective of this study was to calculate seed
production potential in the matorral area during the spring summer and fall of 2012. Three ranches were
selected around Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico. We measured plant density, height, canopy cover, number
of seeds per plant and total seed production. Site selection within ranches was conducted at random.
Descriptive statistics were used for analyses. Precipitation was 35% below average. Plant densities were
very heterogeneous between ranches and varied from 9 to 95 plants/ha (35.8±9.5 average). Plant height
varied from 1.7 to 3.2 m (2.1±0.23 average). Canopy cover varied from 0.9 to 5.8 m 2 (2.25 m2 average).
The number of seeds per plant varied from 69 to 1109 (397 average). Seed production varied from 45 to
721 grams/plant (258±27.2 average). Total seed production of Jojoba on a year under below average
precipitation may vary from 0.40 to 68.0 kilograms (9.2 average) of clean seeds/ha. We conclude that the
amount of seed harvested in this study is sufficient for ranchers to justify the use of this practice. Nearby
areas with higher jojoba densities may represent a better option for harvesting considering the high cost
of seed.
0167
Seed harvesting of native plants to improve income and natural resources sustainability on a rural
area at central Sonora, México.
Martha Martin1, Fernando Ibarra1, Salomon Moreno1, Teodoro Ramos2, Hector Montano2, Alberto Ibarra2,
Ramon Clavero3, Felix Ayala1, Fernando Ibarra1, Francisco Denogean1
1University of Sonora, Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico, 2San Francisco Timmins Mining Co., LLano, Sonora,
Mexico, 3STPS Gobierno del Estado, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
Llano, Sonora is a small community located 100 miles north from Hermosillo, Sonora. Habitants are
currently struggling due to lack of employment. Activities such as agriculture, ranching, mining, wood
production, charcoal extraction, and brick construction have left deteriorated rangelands. Aware of this,
the University of Sonora, San Francisco Timmins Mining Co. and the employment office of the State
Government of Sonora joined efforts and start a training course in natural resources management to
teach inhabitants of Llano to take care of the environment and teach them to use native vegetation as a
source of income in a sustainable way. Twenty five unemployed mature woman and man were hired to be
trained for 60 days. Classroom lectures and field work was designated for preparation. They were trained
to harvest and manage seeds of Palo fierro (Olneya tesota) Palo verde (Cercidium microphyllum), and
Mezquite (Prosopis juliflora) to be either sold or used for range seeding in their own communal land.
Results were successful and encouraging. People were very motivated and interested in participating on
solving the problem. Each person was able to harvest from 0.650 to 1.5 kg of clean seed/day. This yields
a profit of $130 to $195 pesos/day, which is two to three times greater than the official daily minimum
wage for the area. We conclude that this extra income is sufficient for a family to survive and may aid in a
more efficient management of natural resources.
0168
Long-term Effects of Roller Chopping and Fire on Invasion of Exotic Grasses
Johanna M. Prukop1, J. Alfonso Ortega-S1, Felix Ayala-Alvarez2, Timothy E. Fulbright1
1Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Kingsville, Texas, USA, 2Universidad de Sonora, Santa Ana,
Sonora, Mexico
The invasion of exotic grasses into South Texas native rangelands is affecting the ecology, leading to
decreased biodiversity. Practices such as roller chopping used to reduce brush vegetation and encourage
herbaceous cover, may also favor the invasion of exotic grasses. Prescribed burning may be used to
prolong the life of roller chopping, however, it may also encourage the establishment of invasive plants.
The hypothesis that prescribed fire can prolong the effects of roller chopping and re-seeding is being
tested. The study is being conducted at the Welder Wildlife Foundation Refuge near Sinton, TX. The
study area consists of nine plots. During the Fall of 2007, three treatments where evaluated: roller
chopping, roller chopping plus seeding a native plant mix, and the control. Currently, with the addition of
prescribed fire done in 2011, five treatments are currently being evaluated: roller chopping, roller
chopping and prescribed fire, roller chopping plus seeding, roller chopping plus seeding and prescribed
fire, and the control (no manipulation). Since 2011, data has been collected for percentage of canopy
cover of exotic grasses, native grasses, litter and forbs. Woody plant cover data using the line intercept
method will be presented. Information on percent canopy cover of exotic vegetation, percent canopy
cover of native vegetation, and percent canopy cover of forage available to deer and quail species will be
presented.
0170
Nutritive value and cattle preferences in an old Boer lovegrass stand treated with biosolids in
Cananea, Sonora, Mexico.
Fernando Ibarra1, Martha Martin1, Roque Martinez1, Felix Ayala1, Francisco Denogean1, Salomon
Moreno1, Rafael Retes2, Fernando Ibarra1, Ana Martinez1
1University of Sonora, Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico, 2University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
Boer lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula var. conferta) is an introduced species planted to increase productivity
on deteriorated rangelands in northern Mexico. This study was conducted during 2008 at Cananea,
Sonora, Mexico to evaluate nutritive value and cattle preferences on a 15 years old Boer lovegrass stand
three summers following biosolids application at rates of 0, 25, and 50 ton/ha. Biosolids were handapplied during 2006 on triplicate 5x5 m plots. Variables evaluated were crude protein, digestibility and
animal preference. A mature Hereford cow was used to test grazing preferences during the summer of
2008. Three grazing periods of 60 minutes each were allowed and each was considered as replication. A
different cow was used on each grazing event. Time spent grazing was recorded on each plot. Data was
analyzed by ANOVA (P<0.05). Precipitation was average during the study period. Results show that
crude protein averaged 5.1% in the controls and varied from 7.5-9.9% on treated plots. Digestibility
averaged 37.1% in controls and varied from 40.5-46.3% on treated plots. Cattle preferred (P<0.05) to
graze Boer lovegrass plants on plots treated with biosolids. Cows spent 28.2 (15.7%), 58.5 (32.5%), and
93.2 (51.8%) minutes on plots treated with biosolids at rates of 0, 25 and 50 tons/ha, respectively.
Overall, cows spent 84.3% of the time grazing plants on biosolid treated plots. We conclude that nutritive
effect of biosolids continues even three growing seasons after treatment application. The uses of these
nutrient-rich organic materials play an important role on the improvement of deteriorated rangelands.
0171
Vegetation changes following biosolid applications in a short grassland at northern Sonora,
Mexico.
Salomon Moreno1, Martha Martin1, Fernando Ibarra1, Alejandra Armenta1, Francisco Denogean1, Rafael
Retes2, Felix Ayala1, Ernesto Gerlach1
1University of Sonora, Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico, 2University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
Extensive areas of short grasslands in northern Mexico are deteriorated, in poor condition, and show low
productivity, reduced vegetation cover and high chances of soil erosion. The study was conducted during
2009 in a Bouteloua-Aristida short grassland at Cananea, Sonora, Mexico to evaluate vegetation changes
three summers following the application of biosolids at rates of 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ton/ha. Biosolids
were hand applied over the soil surface on triplicate 5x5 m plots which were arranged in a randomized
complete block design. Variables evaluated were plant density, basal cover, and standing biomass. Data
was analyzed by ANOVA (P<0.05). Precipitation was average during the study period. Results show that
plant density, cover, and forage production was greater (P<0.05) in biosolid treated plots as compared
with the check, even three summer growing seasons after treatment application. Plant density varied from
27.5 to 41.2 p/m2 in treated plots and averaged 19.5 p/m 2 on the checks. Basal cover varied from 18.1 to
37.2% in treated plots and averaged 9.5% on the checks. Forage production varied from 2.5 to 4.3 tons
D.M./ha on treated plots and averaged 1.3 tons D.M./ha in the checks. Total standing biomas was 92 to
230% greater (P<0.05) in biosolid treated plots as compared with the untreated checks. We conclude that
biosolids play an important role in increasing plant density, cover and forage production on short
grasslands in arid and semiarid areas in northern Mexico. They represent a future alternative to restore
deteriorated short grasslands.
0181
Groundwater-vegetation relationships in an irrigation-maintained wet meadow and considerations
for restoration following irrigation removal
Craig Carr1, Tamzen Stringham 2, Erica Freese2
1Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA, 2University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA
Restoring meadow vegetation is a challenge in rangeland systems affected by altered hydrologic
regimes. Meadow vegetation is influenced by groundwater depth, thereby providing a management
opportunity to manipulate groundwater through strategic meadow flooding or water exclusion. Several
studies have evaluated wet meadow restoration associated with increasing groundwater availability,
however, fewer studies have evaluated potential changes in vegetation as wet meadows, artificially
maintained through irrigation, lose contact with the groundwater when irrigation is foregone and water
returned to in-stream use. In 2010, a long-term project was initiated in a formerly irrigated meadow in
northwest Nevada to evaluate relationships among vegetation and groundwater and to elucidate the
ecological processes driving plant community change. This information will be used to develop an
understanding of potential restoration constraints and opportunities and will lead to further research,
testing potential treatment options to promote desired ecological processes and vegetation
structure. Analyses of 2010 vegetation and depth to groundwater data using non-parametric multivariate
techniques indicated 1) differences in vegetation assemblages associated with depth to groundwater; 2) a
significant risk of weed invasion associated with propagule pressure and disturbance; and 3) potential
state changes in response to altered hydrology. Although early in the study, these data suggested the
need to evaluate meadow vegetation response to lowered water table within the framework of state-andtransition models and to consider hydrologic change as a disturbance that may promote invasion by
undesirable species. Long-term results of this project may be applicable in other irrigated meadow
situations where water use is transferred in-stream.
0186
Comparison of rainfall products of varying spatial scales on herbaceous biomass outputs from
the Phytomass Growth Simulator
Edward Rhodes1, Doug Tolleson2, Jay Angerer1, Richard Conner3 ,4, Wayne Hamilton3
1Center for Natural Resource Information Technology - Texas AgriLife Research, Temple, TX, USA,
2University of Arizona School of Natural Resources and the Environment, Camp Verde, TX, USA, 3Texas
A&M Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, College Station, TX, USA, 4Texas A&M
Department of Agricultural Economics, College Station, TX, USA
Modeling herbaceous biomass production for forage and fuels-related management requires the proper
combination of growth, soil and weather characteristics. The Phytomass Growth Simulator (PHYGROW)
is a daily timestep, hydrologically-driven plant growth model requiring accurate, up to date weather data
and forecasts. In this project we examined the effects of different NOAA rainfall products of varying
spatial scales on PHYGROW model outputs in Arizona. These consisted of the NEXRAD radar
(NEXRAD; 4 km resolution), the CPC Morphing (CMORPH; 8 km) and the Unified Precipitation (UNIFIED;
27 km) products.
Our study consisted of 3 plant communities located in the Coconino National Forest; desert, juniper, and
pinyon. Herbaceous plant communities and soils data were collected in the field and calibrated into the
PHYGROW model using NEXRAD data. Model outputs were then recalculated by changing the rainfall
data to the CMORPH, and UNIFIED products. The model was considered validated if the output was
within the standard error of the clipped field data.
All three sites remained calibrated when rainfall data was changed between CMORPH and UNIFIED
data. Changing from the 4km to 8km dataset caused the model to lower production on all 3 sites;
whereas going from 8km to 27 km triggered production values to increase. The juniper and pinyon sites
showed very little difference between the 4km and 27km datasets; whereas the 4km and 8km calibrations
were more similar on the desert site. These results suggest that xeric sites may require a higher spatial
resolution to yield more accurate model predictions.
0190
Germination of shortgrass prairie species influenced by smoke in the glasshouse.
Robert Cox, Yi-Fang Chou, David Wester
Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
Exposure to smoke can influence the germination of seeds in many fire-prone ecosystems, but this effect
is not well studied in grasslands. Smoke treatments could be useful as management and restoration
tools, if the response of target species in natural settings is well understood. We tested 8 species native
to the Southern High Plains region in Texas, USA, already known to respond to smoke in the laboratory,
for their response to smoke in a less controlled glasshouse environment. Seeds were exposed to smoke
water, heat, or a combination of the two, sown into greenhouse flats, and emergence was observed and
recorded. Emergence of nearly all species was influenced by smoke, with most species experiencing
either lower emergence or longer times for emergence when exposed to high concentration smoke water.
Emergence of Gutierrezia sarothrae seeds was enhanced by smoke exposure, with about twice as many
treated seeds emerging as untreated seeds. Because many species displayed different results in the
glasshouse as compared to the laboratory, smoke treatments should be tested in the field before being
used on a larger scale. Doing so will allow a better understanding of how target species might respond to
smoke treatments that interact with soils, fluctuating temperatures, and other complications encountered
in the field
0192
Fire seasonality effects on northern mixed prairie production and cover
Lance Vermeire
ARS, Miles City, MT, USA
Seasonal timing is believed to affect plant response to fire. We compared biomass and cover of nonburned, summer (SUM), autumn (AUT), and spring (SPR) burned sites in northern mixed prairie. Criteria
for fire timing were summer quiescence, autumn temperature (< -2oC), and spring initiation of Bouteloua
gracilis growth. Fire treatments were thrice replicated on silty and dense clay ecological sites monitored
two years following fire. All comparisons are relative to non-burned sites. Total current-year biomass
was not affected by AUT, reduced 10% by SPR, and reduced 15% by SUM. Fire did not affect grass
production (1126 ± 43 kg ha-1). SUM and AUT reduced forb production 65 and 52%. Bare ground
increased with SUM (51%) and AUT (33%), but was similar to non-burned sites (12%) following SPR (14
± 4%). Fire reduced litter cover similarly across fire seasons (55%) compared to no fire (76%) on the silty
site, whereas litter cover on dense clay was least for SUM and AUT (34%), greater for SPR (63%), and
greatest with no fire (78 ± 4%). Fire increased perennial C3 grass basal cover relative to no fire (0.6%),
with SUM (2.8 ± 0.3%) having the greatest effect. Perennial C4 grass basal cover was less with no fire
(1.1%) than either SPR (4.3%) or SUM (3.5%) and intermediate for AUT (2.4 ± 0.7%). Grass productivity
was resistant to fire and combined cover data indicated native species were promoted by fire in any
season (6.6%) compared to sites where fire was excluded (2.0 ± 1.1%).
0193
Influence of Community-based Management and Relative Grazing Pressure on Above-ground
Biomass in Three Mongolian Ecoregions
Khishigbayar Jamiyansharav, Maria Fernandez-Gimenez, Robin S. Reid, Chantsallkham Jamsranjav
Colorado State University, Colorado, USA
Mongolia, where the rangeland covers 75-80% of the total territory, has a long history of grazing. About
one third of Mongolia’s population is semi-nomadic pastoralists, dependent for their livelihoods on
rangeland productivity, which is vulnerable to changing climate and grazing management. Since 1999,
over 2000 community-based rangeland management (CBRM) organizations have been established with
the aims of improving grazing management and reversing perceived declines in rangeland condition and
productivity. We evaluated the effects of CBRM and relative grazing pressure on aboveground biomass in
three ecological regions of Mongolia with different ecological dynamics. We compared winter pastures
grazed by herders belonging to formal CBRM organizations (n=72) with those grazed by herders in
traditional neighborhoods without formal organizations (n=69). Within each winter pasture, we sampled
along a grazing gradient from a winter campsite at 100-m, 500-m and 1000-m from the impact point
where livestock densities and grazing pressure were assumed to be greatest. We hypothesized that
CBRM pastures have enhanced regulation and monitoring of pasture use resulting in greater amounts of
above-ground biomass than non-CBRM pastures. We also expected that the effects of relative grazing
pressure on above ground biomass would be strongest in the mountain-steppe and weakest in the
desert-steppe zone, consistent with the predictions of non-equilibrium rangeland theory. Field
observations and preliminary analyses suggest that these data support both our CBRM and nonequilibrium hypotheses. Results of this study have significant implications for policy and management
approaches in Mongolia’s diverse rangeland types.
0195
The Potential Value of Festuca valesiaca for Use on Great Basin Rangelands
Yingmei Ma1, Jack Staub2, Steven Larson2, Matthew Robbins2, Paul Johnson1
1Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA, 2USDA ARS FRRL, Logan, UT, USA
Fine-leaved Festuca valesiaca possesses varied abiotic tolerances and is widely distributed on Asian
rangelands. However, its performance in the western United States has not been investigated. Therefore,
F. valesiaca accessions were evaluated for performance and their relatedness to species in the F. ovina
complex. Twelve F. valesiaca accessions from Kyrgyzstan and eight commercial cultivars were
transplanted as spaced plants at Blue Creek, Utah for evaluation. Plant height and width, total biomass,
and seed weight and number were evaluated from 2009 to 2011. Amplified fragment length
polymorphisms (AFLP) with 10 primer combinations were used to evaluate the genetic relatedness
between F. valesiaca and the F. ovina complex. For some traits, F. valesiaca accessions (e.g., PI
659923, PI 659932, W6 30575, and W6 30588) were equal to or better than commercial controls and
possessed an abundance of small seeds. Seed production was significantly correlated with total biomass
(r2 = 0.84, P = 0.001), plant height (r2 = 0.58, P = 0.05), and plant vigor (r2 = 0.83, P = 0.001). Principal
component analysis suggested that these accessions were distinct from the majority of Festuca
accessions examined. Neighbor-joining cluster analysis defined four distinct groups: F. idahoensis (Group
1), F. rubra (Group 2), F. ovina and F. valesiaca (Group 3), and F. trachyphylla (Group 4). These
relationships were confirmed by genetic structure analysis, indicating that F. valesiaca is closely related to
F. ovina. Given their performance, F. valesiaca accessions PI 659923, PI 659932, W6 30575, and W6
30588 should be considered for plant improvement.
0197
Analysis of Beef Cattle Operations in Sonora, Mexico from 2000 to 2009
Francisco G. Denogean B., Salomon Moreno M., Fernando A. Ibarra F., Martha H. Martin R., Felix AyalaA., Rafael Retes L.
Universidad de Sonora, Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico
Beef cattle production in rangelands is one of the dominant business operations in Sonora, Mexico. We
analyzed statistical information available from various sources regarding the population of cattle in
Sonora, Mexico, during the period of 2000 to 2009. We considered the behavior of Sonoran beef cattle
herds regarding their number and classification, the characteristics of the production, exports of animals
to the United States of America, slaughtered animals, price and value of livestock production, and
environmental aspects that influence the production of cattle in Sonora, mainly precipitation and
vegetation. Descriptive statistics was used in the analysis using the statistical software SPSS v. 17. Our
results indicate that size and herd composition have changed from the previous period of 1991-2000,
which reported 1,383,002 head; composed of 49.9% cows, 24.8% calves, 20.6% steers and heifers, and
4.7 % bulls. During 2000 to 2009 the Sonoran herd increased to 1,456,559 head; composed of 53.2%
cows, 27.2% calves, 15.8% steers and heifers, and 3.8% bulls. We were able to observe a tendency that
ranchers are increasing the number of mother cows, which has in return paid off in larger number of
calves, which have had a better price increasing the business profitability. On the other hand, the number
of replacement animals, such as heifers, has shown a tendency to decrease in order to maintain more
productive cows in the ranch.
0198
Utilizing Winter Grazing to Create Heterogeneity in a Northern Prairie Grassland: Livestock use
and Distribution.
Christina Koehler, Patricia Johnson, Kent Jensen, Ken Olson, David Gay, Janna Kincheloe, Elise Hughes
Berheim
South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, USA
Patch-burn-graze systems have been implemented in various areas of the United States to improve
range utilization and wildlife habitat. However, in the Northern Great Plains, burning is often viewed
negatively. We initiated a study in the winter of 2012 to simulate a patch-burn-graze system with heavy
winter grazing used as a replacement for the fire regime. Four native mixed-grass prairie pastures were
divided in half, with one half receiving the patch treatment and the other as control. Patches representing
twenty percent of the treatment pastures were winter grazed to remove most of the standing vegetation.
In mid-May we stocked patch treatment and control pastures at similar stocking rates with yearling steers
(253 kg avg. wt.). Two steers in each pasture were fitted with GPS collars to track use and distribution
patterns. All cattle were weighed prior-to and after the 10 week grazing season. Parameters evaluated
included: (1) vegetation characteristics including height, VOR, percent cover, peak standing crop, and
utilization; (2) steer distribution; and (3) livestock responses, including steer weight gains, average daily
gains, and livestock production per unit area. Differences in these parameters between treatments were
evaluated and changes over the grazing season were also assessed.
0200
The Cost of Increasing Herbaceous Vegetation by Roller Chopping and Seeding in Mixed-Brush
Plant Communities
Felix Ayala-A.1, J. Alfonso Ortega-S.2, Timothy E. Fulbright2, G. Allen Rasmussen2, D. Lynn Drawe2,
Fernando A. Ibarra F.1
1Universidad de Sonora, Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico, 2Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville,
Texas, USA
Rangeland managers commonly assume that seeding is necessary following roller chopping. In semiarid
environments, such as south Texas, allowing herbaceous native plant to re-establish from soil seed
banks can benefit wildlife as well as domestic animals. Our objectives were to determine if reseeding is
required following roller chopping in south Texas mixed-brush communities to reestablish herbaceous
plant vegetation; and to evaluate the cost of the increase in herbaceous vegetation cover and species
richness with this management practices. The study was conducted on three locations in south Texas.
Study sites were selected along an annual precipitation gradient ranging from 550 mm to 920 mm. The
experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replications. Treatments evaluated
were: roller chopping, roller chopping and seeding a native plant mix, and control. Response variables
included canopy cover of woody plants, canopy cover of herbaceous plants and native species richness.
Our results indicate that the mechanical brush management practice of roller chopping by itself is enough
to reestablish herbaceous vegetation canopy cover; therefore, the cost of seeding after roller chopping is
4 to 8 times higher in order to increase similar herbaceous vegetation cover as with only roller chopping.
0215
Evaluation and Development of Early Successional Native Plant Materials for Rangeland
Restoration in Central Texas
Mia McCraw1, Forrest Smith1, Jeff Breeden2, Jim Muir3, Randy Bow3
1Texas A&M University Kingsville, Kingsville, Texas, USA, 2Tarleton State University, Stephenville, Texas,
USA, 3AgriLife Research and Extension, Stephenville, Texas, USA
The success of a native seeding project often hinges on local adaptability of plant materials utilized and
diversity of successional stages of plants within the seed mix. Often the commercial market for certified
native seed is dominated by most desirable late successional species that provide the best forage and
cover. However, slow germination and poor success rates of current seeding projects suggest successful
establishment of these late successional species requires site modifications created by early to mid
successional species often not available in commercial seed trade. To better understand statewide
adaptability of available seed sources, the Texas Native Seeds project is conducting field trials of 65
commonly used native and improved species in Central Texas at the Stephenville AgriLife Research field
and the Knox City NRCS Plant Material Center. Seeding trials and transplants at each location are being
evaluated for many variables including germination, vigor, cover, and long-term adaptation. Data
collected over the past two years supports development of early successional native plant materials for
use in seeding projects. White tridens (Tridens albescens) and purple three awn (Aristida purpurea) are
two such species we are working to make commercial seed selections of. In summer 2012, we began
evaluations of 70 native populations of white tridens and 93 native populations of threeawn for selection
and increase purposes. Ultimately, the best performing collections will be increased, and provided to
commercial growers for certified production. Increasing the availability of certified seed of early
successional species should improve native seeding success in Central Texas.
0216
Evaluating Weed Management Options to Improve Reclamation of Drastically Disturbed Lands
Beth Fowers, Brian Mealor
University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
Reclamation after disturbance of soils and vegetation associated with energy extraction is critical for
ecosystem function and required by law. Soils are scraped from sites to access mineral deposits or to
create level surfaces for drilling or mining activities. This disturbance kills plants, and makes it necessary
to reintroduce desirable species once extraction activities are completed. Weedy annual species often
dominate reclamation sites for the short-term, competing for resources with newly-seeded desirable
vegetation. Our objectives are to: 1) evaluate herbicide effects on weedy and desirable species, 2)
determine the effect of treatment timing (herbicide and seeding) on reclamation success, and 3) evaluate
the performance of different species and seed mixes. Fifteen herbicide treatments and ten seed mixes
were applied in a split-plot design to three sites in Wyoming to evaluate effectiveness of reclamation
practices. Most herbicide treatments targeted broadleaved weeds with the addition of two treatments
targeting annual grasses at one of the three sites. Seeding treatments were drill seeded at two timings
(fall, spring) across herbicide treatments to investigate establishment rates of specific species under
different seeding time treatments. We present first-year observations on weed control and seeded
species establishment from cover and percent stand observations from mid-summer 2012. All herbicide
treatments reduced annual weedy forb cover (p<0.05) across the three sites. Overall, seeded species
establishment was low, presumably because of very low precipitation in 2012. Current results are too
early in the reclamation process to make reliable management recommendations, but evaluation will
continue for two more years.
0217
Potential Direct and Indirect Effects of Climate Change on Northern Great Plains Grasslands
David King1, Dominique Bachelet1 ,2, Amy Symstad3
1Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA, 2Conservation Biology Institute, Corvallis, OR, USA, 3U.S.
Geological Survey, Hot Springs, SD, USA
Climate affects grassland production and composition directly and quickly by governing soil moisture
resources, as well as indirectly and more slowly by influencing management decisions regarding grazing
and fire. Using MC1, a dynamic global vegetation model that incorporates carbon dioxide effects, climate,
fire, and grazing, we are simulating vegetation dynamics under a combination of future climate and
management scenarios for United States northern Great Plains (US NGP). Simulations for Wind Cave
National Park (WCNP), a 13,000-ha natural area with bison grazing on a prairie-forest transition in the
southern portion of the US NGP, show that simulated future vegetation is quite sensitive to fire
management. Woody species spread into nearly all park grasslands in a fire suppression scenario but
remain in currently forested areas in a "natural" fire scenario. These WCNP simulations suggest that fire
management will become more difficult as increasing temperatures and decreasing humidity increase the
frequency of high fire danger days from approximately 10 per year in the 20th century to 20, 60, or 100
days per year by 2100 for three contrasting climate scenarios. Simulated grass production for two of the
climate scenarios remains similar to current levels well into the 21st century when grazing is moderate, but
in the hottest, driest scenario grass production decreases by at least 30% from its current level by
2100. With this poster, we seek feedback from SRM members on realistic grazing and fire scenarios to
apply to our simulations for all of the US NGP.
0219
Effects of sequential herbicide applications on cheatgrass and native rangeland vegetation
Shayla Burnett, Brian Mealor
University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorumL.) is one of the most significant invasive weeds of North America. Because
eradication may not be a feasible goal, it may be desirable to manage cheatgrass in low-density stands
below the ‘impact’ stage of invasion. Little work has investigated managing such stands by single or
sequential herbicide applications. We inset randomized complete block experiments with five herbicide
treatments and a control into seven different sites. Five sites were treated previously with imazapic in
different years (2006-2010). Two sites – one dominated by Hesperostipa comata (Trin.&Rupr.) and one
co-dominated by Pascopyrum smithii (Rydb.) and Bouteloua gracilis (Willd.exKunth) – were treated for
the first time in 2011. Herbicide treatments included imazapic (70 and 105 g ai/ha), propoxycarbazone
sodium (59 g ai/ha), rimsulfuron (158 g ai/ha), and a combination of tebuthiuron (170 g ai/ha) and
aminopyralid (92 g ai/ha) applied prior to cheatgrass emergence in autumn 2011. Vegetation response
(cover and biomass production) was evaluated spring 2012. Cheatgrass cover was observed only at the
site initially treated in 2006 and at the sites untreated previously, indicating potential cheatgrass
reinvasion at the 2006 site. All herbicide treatments reduced cheatgrass biomass (p<.0001) and
increased perennial grass biomass (p=.0379) at the 2011 H. comata site but had little effect on vegetation
cover at the other sites (p>0.05). Although treated repeatedly with herbicide, desirable natives did not
show significant damage – even in a drought year. Further work includes evaluating the seedbank
changes at all sites and grazing exclusion at the 2011 sites.
0221
Effects of Forest Harvesting, Wildlife Browsing and Cattle Grazing on Understory Vegetation and
Lodgepole Pine Regeneration: Fallen Timber Coniferous Regeneration Study Summary Report
Terri France, Carcey Hincz, Michael Willoughby
Government of Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, Alberta, Canada
In Alberta, public lands are managed to provide economic and ecological goods and services to Albertans
through the sustainable use of natural resources. However, integrating a variety of activities and multiple
uses on the landbase can be challenging and adaptive management is often required. Multiple-use goals
for cutblocks include successful forest regeneration, sustained timber yields, and maintenance of forage
for livestock and wildlife. The Fallen Timber study investigated the effects of cattle grazing, wildlife
browsing and forest harvesting practices on lodgepole pine regeneration and understory
vegetation. Three monitoring sites were established in clearcut harvested cutblocks within a grazing
lease located in west-central Alberta, Canada. The objectives of the study were to compare grazing
treatment, slash treatment, and their interaction on forage production, species composition, and tree
regeneration. At each site six treatment combinations were examined which included three grazing
treatments (unrestricted grazing, cattle excluded, and cattle and wildlife excluded) and two slash
treatments (trees limbed in block and trees limbed at landing). The effects of the grazing treatments on
forage production were not significant; whereas, the presence of slash in the block significantly reduced
forage production. Species composition did not significantly differ among the grazing treatments or slash
treatments. The grazing treatment by slash treatment interaction was also not significant. Lastly,
lodgepole pine seedling survival was not significantly affected by grazing treatment or slash
treatment. These results are consistent with most studies that show cattle grazing can be compatible with
timely free to grow coniferous regeneration standards.
0223
Ecological responses to cattle grazing on a degraded southeastern Arizona mine site
Shawn Stone
University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
There has been widespread debate regarding the use of grazing as a tool in ecosystem
reclamation. Some parties believe that grazing by domestic livestock threatens the structure and function
of natural ecosystems, as it may increase soil compaction and deformation, reduce plant density and
biodiversity, increase runoff and soil erosion, and export minerals from the system. However, some
studies have posited that short-duration grazing may increase production of some grasses by increasing
water infiltration, incorporation of litter into the soil, and root growth. This study aims to improve our
understanding of these processes in arid and semi-arid areas.
We introduced grazing to an existing reclamation experiment at the Rosemont Copper property in
southeastern Arizona. There are two test sites at differing elevations, each containing twenty-four plots
that were broadcast-seeded with ten native desert grassland species. Within each plot, we constructed
exclosures to limit the impact of grazing to a defined area. The cattle were introduced after each growing
season and were managed for short-term, low-intensity grazing on each site. We then evaluated the
differences in vegetative response, macronutrient loads, microbial communities, and slope stability
between the exclosed and open areas, and then compared those results to previous, ungrazed years’
results. Our results may provide a novel reference for the use of grazing as a tool in other desert
grassland reclamation projects.
0226
Timing and Intensity of Steer Use on Old World Bluestem (Bothriochloa ischaemum) and Blue
Grama (Bouteloua gracilis) in Southern Mixed-Grass Prairie
Jessica Casey1, Jordana LaFantasie1, Keith Harmoney2
1Fort Hays State University, Department of Biological Sciences, Hays, Ks, USA, 2Kansas State University
Agricultural Research Center-Hays, Hays, Ks, USA
Invasive grasses are of particular concern when it comes to native grassland communities; the invasive
grasses decrease the productivity of the native grasses in the native grasslands. Old World Bluestems
are an increasing problem in many of the prairie states in North America. Yellow bluestem is a non-native
species that has been introduced for hay production, pasture grasses, and roadside grasses for erosion
control, and has now exceeded the bounds. Cattle have been known to graze yellow bluestem early in
the grazing season along with the cool season grasses, and then the cattle begin to graze native warm
season grasses. The objectives of this study are 1) compare timing and intensity of defoliation of yellow
bluestem and native grass, blue grama by steers, and 2) determine whether mowing pastures with yellow
bluestem will increase the amount of steer use. I hypothesized that 1) yellow bluestem and blue grama
will be utilized the by steers, 2) the recently mowed areas will have higher defoliation rates than the unmowed areas due to the fact that the standing dead tissue would discourage steer use will be removed,
and 3) blue grama will have a significantly higher rate of defoliation than the yellow bluestem. Some
preliminary results are both blue grama and yellow bluestem were utilized by the steers. The yellow
bluestem was defoliated at higher intensities in the mowed areas than in the un-mowed areas.
0235
Habitat selection patterns of young cows in grassland/woodland mosaics in relation to stocking
rate and weather
Mohammed Sawalhah1, Andres Cibils1, Caitriana Steele1, Jerry Holechek1, Robert Wesley1, Christina
Black1, Shad Cox2, Richard Dunlap2
1New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA, 2Corona Range and Livestock Research Center,
Corona, NM, USA
A study was conducted in central NM to evaluate effects of two levels of stocking rate and weather factors
on habitat selection (grassland vs. woodland) of young rangeland raised cows grazing a
grassland/woodland mosaic. Data were collected over four years by tracking 52 cross-bred cows grazing
a 146 ha pasture (55% grassland and 45% woodland). GPS collars were used to record and store cow
position at 5-min intervals. The pasture was stocked moderately in 2004 (73 AUMs) and 2005 (78 AUMs)
and lightly in 2006 (34 AUMs) and 2007 (32 AUMs). A preference index which computed the ratio
between percentages of time spent in the woodland by cows and percentage of woodland area in the
pasture was used as the main response variable. Stocking rate level significantly (P<0.01) affected daily
woodland preference during the entire 24h day + night period (D+N), daytime hours (DAY, from sunrise to
sunset), pre-night hours (PRE, from midnight to sunrise), and post-night hours (POST, from sunset to
midnight). During all four time periods, cows in moderately grazed treatment spent more time in woodland
area (higher preference index) than counterparts in lightly grazed treatment (P<0.01). Cumulative
precipitation, wind speed or direction, and air temperature affected woodland preference regardless of
stocking rate. Lunar cycle affected the time spent in woodland area during D+N (P<0.05) and DAY
(P<0.01). Previous studies indicate that woodland preference increased during the years when forage
availability was scarce in the grassland open area. Our results support this hypothesis.
0239
Effect of landscape position on soil carbon and nitrogen in three different arid and semi-arid
ecosystems.
Doug Tolleson1, Jay Angerer2, Stephen Prince2, Marco Bomfim2
1The University of Arizona, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, V Bar V Ranch, Camp
Verde, AZ, USA, 2Texas AgriLife Research, Center for Natural Resource Information Technology,
Blackland Research and Extension Center, Temple, TX, USA
We analyzed the effect of landscape position on soil carbon and nitrogen content in three different
ecosystems in the southwestern US (MLRA's 38, 41, and 42) in spring 2012. Within each experimental
location, soil surface (< ~2.5 cm) samples were collected from two different ecosystem sites and within
each site; from under shrub canopy, grass canopy, and interspaces. Ecosystem sites, shrub, and grass
species varied and were specific to each experimental location. Samples were analyzed for total carbon
and nitrogen. Differences in soil nutrients were determined by Mixed Model procedures in SAS. Results
are reported as least square means ± standard error. Ecosystem sites within experimental locations
generally differed in soil nutrients. The effect of landscape position on soil surface carbon and nitrogen
was not consistent across experimental locations. In MLRA 38, soil under shrubs had greater (P < 0.02)
percent carbon and nitrogen (2.44 ± 0.35, 0.23 ± 0.02, respectively) than under grass (1.35 ± 0.35, 0.17 ±
0.02) or within interspaces (0.81 ± 0.35, 0.13 ± 0.02). The same effect of landscape position was true (P ~
0.1) for the MLRA 41 location; i.e. shrub (1.00 ± 0.25, 0.13 ± 0.03) > grass (0.37 ± 0.25, 0.07 ± 0.03) >
interspace (0.18 ± 0.25, 0.06 ± 0.03). In the MLRA 42 location, however, shrub (5.83 ± 0.40, 0.30 ± 0.02)
> interspace (4.50 ± 0.40, 0.22 ± 0.02) > grass (3.51 ± 0.40, 0.17 ± 0.02; P < 0.01). Landscape position
and site affected soil carbon and nitrogen.
0247
EFFECTS OF SOIL HETEROGENEITY ON WOODY PLANT ENCROACHMENT IN THE ARGENTINE
CALDENAL REGION: A CLASSIFICATION APPROACH
Lauren Svejcar1 ,2, Brandon Bestelmeyer2, Raul Peinetti3
1New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA, 2USDA ARS Jornada Experimental Range, Las
Cruces, NM, USA, 3Universidad Nacional de La Pampa, Santa Rosa, La Pampa, Argentina
In the Caldenal ecoregion of central Argentina thicketization of the calden trees (Prosopis caldenia burk)
in a previously savanna ecosystem resulted from a change in grazing history and altered fire frequencies.
The transition from savanna state to thicketized state has had negative effects on ecosystem services,
such as loss of palatable species, and has advanced the system's level of ecological degradation with
increased erosion being a primary concern. Little success has been achieved through attempts to
minimize losses of ecosystem services and restore historic savanna states by reduced grazing and
prescribed burning. In this project, we drew together existing sources of information to develop ecological
site classifications with correlated, process-oriented state-and-transition models (STM), use
measurements of vegetation and soils collected with both random and selected sampling schemes to
examine state concepts and characterize the properties of alternative states, and then ask how the
occurrence of thicketized states may be related to variations in soil properties. We sought to examine the
relationship of vegetation structure to selected dynamic soil properties that reflect the functioning of the
states, including texture, P, N, soil organic matter (SOM), calcium carbonate content of soil horizons and
depth to petrocalcic horizon. We hypothesized that thicketized states would exhibit increases in total P,
total N and SOM compared to ancestral savanna states. The information derived from this project can
serve as a basis for recognizing different ecological sites bearing specific state-and-transition models that
can assist land managers in land use decisions.
0248
Phenological bud bank development of Bouteloua gracilis, Hesperostipa comata, and
Pascopyrum smithii during drought in the northern Great Plains
Morgan Russell1, Lance Vermeire2, John Hendrickson3, Amy Ganguli4
1North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA, 2USDA-ARS, Miles City, MT, USA, 3USDA-ARS,
Mandan, ND, USA, 4New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
Vegetative reproduction in rangelands relies heavily on tiller recruitment from belowground bud
banks. Improved understanding of species-specific bud production and phenology would facilitate timing
of aboveground management strategies. Tillers from twelve individual plants of the warm season grass
(Bouteloua gracilis), and cool season grasses Hesperostipa comata, and Pascopyrum smithii were
marked on 15th of March and followed throughout the 2012 growing season. Tiller counts, mean growth
stages of tillers, and axillary bud production of marked plants were recorded bi-weekly. Mean growthstage counts (MSC) estimate the average growth stage of the tiller populations. Phenological
development of H. comata and P. smithii differed during the first sampling, but demonstrated a similar
MSC by the second sampling. Pascopyrum smithii matured earlier than H. comata and was
approximately 2 weeks ahead until 30th July when both species reached a developmental plateau. Both
cool season grasses produced the most active buds by mid-March, with H. comata producing 3.3 ± 0.4
and P. smithii producing 7.2 ± 0.4. In contrast, B. gracilis initiated maturation at the end of May and
experienced rapid phenological development during the first week in July producing the most active buds
(6.7 ± 0.4) by 5th July and decreased active bud production by 16th July (4.8 ± 0.4). Abrupt decreases in
B. gracilis active buds may be attributed to drought. Better understanding of bud phenology may improve
predictability of grassland responses to timing of various stimuli, such as fire, grazing or drought and their
effects on tiller and biomass production.
0249
Impact of burning and glyphosate on restoration success in a crested wheatgrass stand.
John Hendrickson
USDA-ARS, Mandan, ND 58554, USA
We investigated the ability of fire and/or glyphosate to increase seeding success of native grasses in an
established crested wheatgrass monoculture [Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaetn.] on US Forest Service land
in Perkins County South Dakota. Treatments were 1) burn only; 2) burning and seeding; 3) burning
seeding and followed by a glyphosate application; 4) no burning but seeding 5) no burning but seeding
followed by glyphosate and 6) an untreated control. Each treatment was applied to a 30 x 20 m plots and
replicated four times. Plots were burned on April 17, 2008 seeded on May 12, 2008 and sprayed on May
20, 2008. The seeding mixture consisted six native grasses dominated by western wheatgrass
[Pascopyrum smithii (Rydb.) Á. Löve ] and green needlegrass [Nassella viridula (Trin.) Barkworth].
Glyphosate was applied at the rate of 13 oz a.i/acre. One thousand points were collected in each plot
using 10 point frames to determine species composition in late July of 2008, 2009 and 2011. Basal hits
were divided into native grasses, native forbs, introduced grasses, introduced forbs and moss. Our data
indicate burning did not increase the percent native grasses or forbs in the species composition.
However, glyphosate nearly doubled the percent of native grass or native forbs compared to the controls.
Burning or spraying reduced moss compared to non-treated plots. Our data suggests that the use of
glyphosate, with or without burning, is an effective treatment to increase native grass seeding success in
crested wheatgrass stands.
0250
Soil Microbial Community Responses to Grazing Period Length and Stocking Density in Nebraska
Sandhills Meadow
Robert Vavala, Walter Schacht, Jerry Volesky, Rhae Drijber, Elizabeth Jeske
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
Soil health is important for long-term grassland ecosystem structure and function. A diverse microbial
community is generally linked with healthy soil as its activities can increase soil fertility, improve soil
structure, decrease nutrient leaching, and improve suppression of diseases. Analysis of fatty acid methyl
ester (FAME) profiles within soil can be used to determine the main groups of microorganisms present in
the soil and their relative abundance. The purpose of this two-year study was to investigate how grazing
period length and stocking density, either directly or indirectly, affected soil microbial function on a subirrigated meadow in the Nebraska Sandhills. One treatment entailed grazing 36 yearling steers on 0.06 ha
for one half day for a stocking density of 445 animal units (AU) per hectare. The second treatment used
four steers grazing continuously on 0.75 hectares for a stocking rate of 4.25 AU per hectare. Two
replications of each treatment and two ungrazed controls were included. For each sampling date, fifteen
six-inch soil cores were taken from each treatment paddock and composited. Samples were taken one
week and one day prior to grazing, as well as, one day, one week, one month, and two months after
grazing began. FAME analysis was performed on all composited samples. Results of analysis will be
presented.
0253
Sensitive species range mapping in Wyoming
Joy Handley, Mark Andersen
Wyoming Natural Diversity Database, Wyoming, USA
Wyoming Natural Diversity Database (WYNDD) is the Natural Heritage program in Wyoming and offers
the most complete source of data for species and vegetation communities of conservation concern in
Wyoming. Part of the WYNDD mission is to distribute these data upon request under the philosophy that
the best decisions regarding natural resources will be made only when everyone has access to complete
and current scientific data (http://www.uwyo.edu/wyndd/). Recently, the online application Wyoming
Interagency Spatial Database & Online Management System (WISDOM, http://wisdom.wygisc.org/) was
developed to allow users to determine species of concern that may be present within a specific area of
interest without requiring GIS experience or software. Range data provide a useful visual representation
for understanding the geography of a taxon at broad scales. In order to provide clear range mapping for
species, it was decided to use Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC10 or watershed) Boundaries, rather than "dot
maps" of known species observations. Watersheds are accessible as a consistent dataset for the entire
United States, and can be produced at finer and coarser scales at different levels.
Pinus albicaulis (whitebark pine) and Pinus flexilis (limber pine) are declining due to Cronartium ribicola
(white pine blister rust), Dendroctonus ponderosae (mountain pine beetle), and other environmental
changes. Both these pine species have important ecological and ethnobotanical roles in their high
elevation habitats. WYNDD recently started tracking Pinus albicaulis and Pinus flexilis as species of
potential concern, and the maps of these two species are useful examples of range mapping and
WISDOM capabilities.
0257
Influence of temperature and precipitation on steer gains in Northern Mixed-Grass Prairie
Justin Reeves1, Justin Derner1, Matt Sanderson2, Mark Petersen3, Matthew Rinella3, John Hendrickson2,
Scott Kronberg2, Lance Vermeire3
1USDA - ARS, Cheyenne, WY, USA, 2USDA - ARS, Mandan, ND, USA, 3USDA - ARS, Miles City, MT,
USA
Precipitation and temperature influence forage production in Northern Mixed-Grass Prairie, but it is
unclear if these environmental variables also influence livestock production. Yearling steer gains and
weather data have been collected at the USDA-ARS, High Plains Grasslands Research Station near
Cheyenne, WY since 1982. Using these long-term data and novel model averaging methods, we
determined responses of average daily gain (kg/hd/day) and beef production (kg/ha) to stocking rate,
precipitation and temperature in individual spring months (April, May, June) and combined summer
months (July - September). Prior fall/winter (prior October to February) and prior growing season (prior
April - prior September) precipitation was examined as well, along with multiple interaction terms. Though
stocking rate alone explained more variability than any of the climate parameters (~17% of daily gain
variability; ~76% of beef production variability), addition of the climate parameters above increased the
predictive ability of the models to ~57% of daily gain variability and ~84% of total production variability.
Incorporation of relationships between stocking rate and the above climate variables on steer gains into
decision support tools will assist in the reduction of risk associated with running yearlings in the highly
variable climate of the Northern Mixed-Grass Prairie.
0258
Influence of climatic variability on livestock gains in the Northern Great Plains: a collaborative
effort by the USDA-Agricultural Research Service
Justin Reeves1, Justin Derner1, Matt Sanderson2, Mark Petersen3, Matthew Rinella3, John Hendrickson2,
Scott Kronberg2, Lance Vermeire3
1USDA - ARS, Cheyenne, WY, USA, 2USDA - ARS, Mandan, ND, USA, 3USDA - ARS, Miles City, MT,
USA
Understanding how climate change (i.e., variability of precipitation and increasing temperatures) affects
livestock production is critical for ensuring food security and maintaining economic viability of rural
communities. Relationships for determining forage production from precipitation and temperature have
been used by land managers to reduce risk, but similar efforts for livestock weight gains are needed. To
evaluate relationships with livestock gains, we will use existing long-term (30-94 years) data sets from
three USDA-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) locations in the Northern Great Plains (Cheyenne, WY;
Miles City, MT; Mandan, ND),where livestock production is a key agricultural enterprise. The central
question asked here is: How does climatic variability influence livestock weight gains in the northern
Great Plains? Our hypotheses are that livestock weight gains are positively influenced by amounts of
cool-season (spring) and warm-season (summer) precipitation in the northern Great Plains and that
monthly average temperatures during the grazing season do not affect livestock weight gains.
Relationships developed for each site based on these unprecedented analyses, along with a synthetic
relationship across these locations, will be incorporated into decision support tools that reduce risk and
facilitate adaptive management decisions for land managers.
0263
Predicting forage mass for cereal forages with a rising plate meter
Corey Moffet, Ryan Reuter, James Rogers
The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Oklahoma, USA
Wheat and rye are important forages for beef stocker operations in Oklahoma. Accurate forage mass
measurements are needed to set stocking rates. Rising plate meters have been used to rapidly estimate
forage mass. The objective of this study was to develop equations to estimate cereal forage mass with a
rising plate meter. We collected 20 datasets with paired measurements of plate height and clipped mass
between 15 November, 2011 and 20 April, 2012. A linear mixed model was used to investigated the effect
of rye or wheat, no-till or conventional till, and days since a typical 1 September seeding date on the
relationship between mass and plate height. Only days since seeding effected the relationship. The
standard deviation of the random intercept for dataset was 455 kg/ha. The standard error of an estimate
from the population level model includes the random effect and residual error. In practice, a pasture
forage mass is estimated from the mean of many samples. With 30 and 60 height measurements
(average height = 12.7 cm, sd = 2.5 cm) and a population level model, users can predict forage mass with
sd = 490 and 481 kg/ha, respectively. With the dataset specific model, the sd is reduced to 145 and 103
kg/ha, respectively, with only a small change in the absolute estimate (-35 kg/ha). If relatively low
precision of forage mass estimates are acceptable, the plate meter is a very efficient method. Greater
precision of estimates requires a dataset-specific model, which requires additional calibration effort.
0264
An experimental assessment of different restoration practices in a brush encroached South Texas
rangeland
Carissa L Wonkka1, William E Rogers1, Dirac Twidwell2
1Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA, 2Oklahoma State University, College Station, TX, USA
Woody plant encroachment into semiarid rangelands is a worldwide phenomenon that is having negative
consequences for a variety of important ecosystem services. We designed a study to experimentally
determine the effects of several common brush removal techniques for restoration of south Texas
rangelands. At each of three sites in Zavala county Texas, 18 (0.15 acre) plots were established across
three soil types with treatments randomly assigned within soil blocks. Mechanical brush removal
treatments were initiated in fall 2010 and prescribed fires conducted in fall 2012 once sufficient surface
fuels accumulated in each treatment area. The treatments are as follows: 1. control (no mechanical
removal and unburned), 2. burned (no mechanical removal), 3. cut-stump (cut and treated with herbicide
and unburned), 4. cut-stump and burned, 5. roller-chop (unburned), 6. roller-chop and burned. Woody
brush and herbaceous cover were estimated pre- and post-treatment for the entire unit, and individual
grasses were mapped in five 1m 2 quadrats randomly located with each larger experimental plot. One year
following initiation of mechanical treatments, woody cover was substantially reduced in cut-stump and
roller-chopped plots compared to controls, as expected. However, resprouting occurred in both
mechanical treatments. Additionally, grass cover was substantially reduced in roller-chopped plots
compared with cut-stump and control plots. Herbaceous cover took two years to recover enough to
initiate prescribed fire in the roller-chopped plots, although extreme drought conditions in 2011 may have
exacerbated this effect. Additional data are needed to determine the relative effectiveness of these
treatments for restoring woody encroached rangeland ecosystems.
0267
Riparian Ecological Site Descriptions in northern Utah: a collaborative project with the BLM
Sarah Quistberg1, Mellissa Rosenhan2
1USDA-NRCS, Ogden, UT, USA, 2USDOI-BLM, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
Riparian ecological sites are designed to address the ecotone between moving water and the adjacent
uplands. Riparian ESD's do not fit neatly into the rangeland ESD model of single or multiple soils with the
potential of producing one type of plant community. Riparian complex ecological sites allow multiple plant
communities with generally occur parallel to the stream channel. Developing riparian ecological sites
includes inventory of the multiple plant communities and soils that occur within the riparian zone and
describing the stream and hydrology of the system. Utah has been involved in developing riparian
complex ecological sites for the northeastern part of the state in collaboration with the Bureau of Land
Management. We have developed four ecological sites on BLM land using some existing data and data
we collected. The riparian ESD's can be used for watershed or allotment management.
0269
Influence of Extreme Precipitation Events on Livestock Production in Shortgrass Steppe
Justin Derner1, David Augustine1, Daniel Milchunas0 ,2
1USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Cheyenne, WY/Fort Collins, CO, USA, 2Colorado State University,
Fort Collins, CO, USA
The influence of extreme precipitation events on livestock production has substantial implications for
sustainably providing animal protein for a growing world population. Here, we used a long-term (19392008) dataset of precipitation and yearling Hereford heifer weights to assess the influence of extremely
dry and wet periods (lowest and highest 10% of years), compared to "normal" (middle 10% years), during
the spring (April-June), summer (July-September), prior fall/winter (prior October to March) and prior
growing season (prior April to prior September) on livestock production. Pastures were grazed at
moderate (40%) or heavy (60%) intensities from May-October. Compensation occurred with increased
beef production (kg/ha) occuring with wet spring years (21% in heavy, 9% in moderate) overcoming
reductions of 9% (heavy) and 1% (moderate) in dry springs. Compensation also occurred for beef
production in moderate grazing with summer precipitation (+15% increase in wet and 4% decrease in
dry). In contrast compensation for beef production did not occur for heavy grazing with summer
precipitation (+2% increase in wet compared to 20% decrease in dry), and for both grazing intensities with
fall/winter and prior growing season precipitation. These findings suggest that more frequent extreme
precipitation events in all seasons, except spring, will further increase risks and decrease sustainability of
livestock production for managers employing heavy compared to moderate grazing intensities.
0271
Forage Quality of Selected Grasses in the Lincoln Hills of Missouri
Allen Casey, Steve Bruckerhoff, Ron Cordsiemon
USDA-NRCS-Plant Materials Center, Elsberry, Missouri, USA
The changes in forage quality of some grasses throughout the growing season have not been well
documented in the Eastern United States. In recent years there has been a push in the Eastern United
States to convert cool-season grass pastures to perennial warm season grasses. There is limited data on
the change in forage quality throughout the growing season and its relation to beef production. In 2002
accessions of ‘Rountree' big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitman), 9078831 big bluestem, ‘Cave-InRock' switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.), 9062244 switchgrass, ‘Aldous' little bluestem (Schizachyrium
scoparium Nash), ‘Rumsey' Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans Nash), 9083214 Eastern gamagrass
(Tripsacum dactyloides L.), ‘Pete' Eastern gamagrass, ‘El Reno' sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula
Torr.), and ‘Ozarka' bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) were grown in a replicated complete block
design. Vegetative samples of primary and re-growth of the selected species were taken at multiple
times throughout the growing season and tested for forage quality. The acid detergent fiber (ADF) varied
from 27.2% to 43.2%, the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) varied from 46.4% to 68.5%, and total digestible
nutrients (TDN) varied from 49.2% to 60.6% for all species tested throughout the growing season. The
selected species have the potential to provide adequate to excellent forage quality but proper
management is needed to maintain that quality.
0272
Utilizing NAIP Imagery to Estimate Tree Cover and Biomass in Pinyon and Juniper Woodlands
April Hulet1, Bruce Roundy2, Steven Petersen2, Stephen Bunting3
1Agricultural Research Service, Burns, OR, USA, 2Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA, 3University
of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
Land managers need to be able to rapidly assess and monitor fuels in pinyon and juniper (PJ) woodlands.
Geospatial technologies, particularly remote sensing, could potentially be used in these ecosystems to
better understand the spatial distribution of fuels and monitor PJ expansion at a scale necessary to make
management decisions. This research utilized the National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) aerial
imagery to assess the relationship between remotely sensed tree cover and ground based cover and
biomass measurements collected as part of the Sagebrush Steppe Treatment Evaluation Project
(SageSTEP). eCognition Developer software was used to extract tree cover from imagery using objectbased image analysis (OBIA) techniques. Ground measurements were collected during the summer of
2006 in 30x33-m subplots using the crown diameter method; biomass was estimated using structurally
based analytic models. Averaged across all sites, OBIA cover estimates were approximately 2.5% less
than ground-measured cover. Cover estimates from the two methods were highly correlated (r = 0.91)
suggesting that NAIP imagery and OBIA techniques are a good method to rapidly identify areas
threatened by PJ expansion. Preliminary correlation results between OBIA cover estimates and groundmeasured biomass are highly correlated for Utah juniper trees (r = 0.87). However, for western juniper
trees the correlation is less (r = 0.57), which may be due to structural differences between juniper species
which impacts both our OBIA cover estimates and ground-measured biomass
0273
Economic Diversification of Farms in Namibia, Africa: Can Ecotourism and Fee Hunting Programs
find Application in the Great Plains
Laura Snell
University of Nebraska- Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
Drought and increasing land and cattle prices may decrease the profitability of family farms and ranches
in the Great Plains, and one solution is to diversify farm income through tourism and fee hunting. Much
can be learned from farmers in Namibia, Africa who have already developed these enterprises on their
land in an effort to diversify their farm incomes and cope in years when traditional agriculture and cattle
ranching is not profitable. Only two percent of Namibia has suitable rainfall for crop production, but over
70% of the 825,000 km2 country is used for grazing livestock. In June and July of 2012 three farms were
studied in three different geographic regions of Namibia. Survey data was gathered by interviewing and
shadowing three landowners, as well as, interviewing 16 of their clients. Along with economic benefits,
several social and cultural benefits were documented. A majority of the interviewed farmers and clients
supported further development of fee hunting programs and ecotourism in the Great Plains and were
honored that the Namibian system might be used as a model for the United States. Data gathered on the
development and daily operations of the three Namibian farms will provide information to aid farmers in
the Great Plains to develop profitable and long-lasting ecotourism operations.
0274
Grasshopper herbivory reduces blue grama abundance in a northern mixed grassland
David Branson
USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Sidney, MT, USA
Insect herbivores often comprise more biomass than vertebrate herbivores in grassland ecosystems, but
little longer term research has examined insect herbivore impacts on plant communities in grass
dominated ecosystems. A manipulative cage-based experiment was conducted from 2000 through 2006
at a northern mixed-grass prairie site in eastern Montana, USA. Treatments consisted of vegetation
controls, Ageneotettix deorum herbivory (whitewhiskered grasshopper), and Melanoplus sanguinipes
herbivory (migratory grasshopper). Vegetation composition was monitored using a 100 point frame in
early summer prior to installation of cages. Blue grama declined in abundance by the end of the six year
experiment with the gramnivorous feeding A. deorum, but was not affected by a larger bodied mixed
grass and forb feeding grasshopper M. sanguinipes. Grasshoppers were maintained at similar densities
that did not strongly reduce plant biomass. The results were likely driven by plant preference, as A.
deorum selected grasses more in proportion to their abundance and M. sanguinipes selected against blue
grama. Although blue grama could be less resistant to herbivory by a grass feeding grasshopper than
cattle, additional research on a wider range of grasshopper species is required. The results point to the
need for additional future research on the impact of abundant grasshopper herbivores on rangeland
health and vegetation composition, in light of grasshoppers’ frequent dominance by biomass in grassland
systems.
0275
Improving Sage Grouse Habitat from a Watershed Perspective
Tammy Koldyke0, Patti Barney0 ,2
1Mule Deer Foundation, Ogden, UT, USA, 2USDA-NRCS, Ogden, UT, USA
In 2010, the USFWS gave sage grouse the designation of "warranted but precluded" under ESA. That
means that the science shows these birds qualify to be listed & protected, but that higher priority species
come first. The designation gives partners across the west extra time to take action to prevent the need
for listing. This poster will reflect the work that has been done within watershed areas to affect sage
grouse habitat through working with private landowners, public land agencies, and many other partners in
Northern Utah. It will also demonstrate the collaborative process used to effectively work with varous
entities.
0278
Soil Temperature and Available Soil Water Characterization of Sagebrush Steppe Seedbeds in the
Great Basin
Nathan Cline, Bruce Roundy
Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
Practical application for predicting germination of weed and revegetation species from thermal-time
models (summation of heat units over time) depends on the amount of time wet seedbeds (> -1.5 MPa)
are at various field temperatures. From the literature, thermal-time models predict germination at
moderate temperatures (5-30°C) fairly well (R2> 0.7). For extreme temperature ranges (<5°C and
>30°C), thermal-time models have poor statistical fit. The objective of this study was to quantify wet
seedbed duration at moderate and extreme temperature ranges. Also, the effect of site, season, year,
and treatment were tested in order to better understand the variations in the seedbed environment. Using
thermocouples and gypsum blocks, near-surface (1-3 cm depth) soil temperature and water potential
were measured at 30 locations (a monoculture of Elymus elymoides (Raf.) Swezey, four monocultures of
Agropyron spp., 13 stands of Artemisia spp. and 12 stands of Juniperus spp. and Pinus spp. -Juniperus
spp. woodlands ) in the Great Basin. Treatments evaluated included: (1) mow, (2) herbicide, and (3)
prescribed burn for grasslands and shrublands. Woodland treatments included (1) cut and drop and (2)
prescribed burn. At some sites, spring (Mar - Jun) soil temperatures spent 27% ± 1.14 SE of the season
and 88 ± 3.28 SE degree days at the 0-5 °C temperature range when the soils were wet. The effects of
site, season, year, and treatment were significant. A significant amount of thermal time at extreme
temperatures would indicate the need for further examination of the thermal-time model at these
temperatures.
0280
A method for characterizing western juniper tree densities in a sagebrush-steppe using NAIP
orthoimagery and ArcView GIS Image Analyst Extension
Marc Horney
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
This poster describes a method used to characterize tree density in a sagebrush-steppe biome, where
western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) is the only tree species of significance on the landscape. The
method involves extracting geo-TIFF imagery from the National Agricultural Imagery Program (NAIP)
orthomosaics and classifying them using the Image Analyst extension for Arcview 3.x GIS (Esri,
Redlands, CA). By constructing an overlay of 1-hectare grid cells across a management area, the
resulting classification can be used to characterize mature juniper tree densities across a heterogeneous
landscape. This can afford a relatively inexpensive means of monitoring one particular aspect of an
81,000 hectare sage-grouse habitat management program in NE California, which can be conducted by
resource-limited conservation organizations which possess at least some basic GIS capability. This
method involves a number of trade-offs. The accuracy of juniper canopy determination is limited by the
quality of the extracted images, and variations in shadows produced by different times of image
acquisition and topography. Time required to classify images for very large areas can be substantial,
especially for older processors 32-bit software systems. The resulting information can be a useful
improvement over existing datasets, for guiding habitat management actions, however.
0281
Feral horse impacts on pronghorn use of watering holes on the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge,
Nevada.
Amy Gooch1, Steven Petersen1, Gail Collins2, Tom Smith1, Brock McMillan1
1Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA, 2Sheldon-Hart Mountain National Wildlife Refuge Complex,
Lakeview, OR, USA
The purpose of this study is to investigate interference competition between pronghorn and feral horses
at water in Nevada. Horses are considered large, aggressive animals that are socially dominant over
native ungulate species. If horses are excluding pronghorn from water, this could have detrimental effects
on pronghorn fitness, especially during the hottest months when water is limited. We placed motionsensitive cameras at 21 water sources across our study area to examine overlap of water use by
pronghorn and horses and to determine if spatial or temporal partitioning of water is occurring. We also
made direct observations of horses and pronghorn at high-use water sources, and recorded occurrences
of negative pronghorn/horse interactions as well as changes in pronghorn behavior in the presence of
horses. Preliminary results suggest that pronghorn spend more time on vigilance behavior in the
presence of horses than in their absence, and that the majority of pronghorn/horse interactions at water
result in pronghorn exclusion, sometimes due to horse aggression, supporting the hypothesis of
interference competition for water in areas with high horse concentrations.
0283
A snapshot of Wyoming ranching operations: natural resource goals, context and management
Emily Kachergis1, Justin Derner1, Jim Magagna2, Rachel Mealor3, Leslie Roche4, Lorien Jasny4, Mark
Lubell4, Valerie Eviner4, Kenneth Tate0
1USDA-ARS, Cheyenne, WY, USA, 2Wyoming Stock Growers Association, Cheyenne, WY, USA,
3University of Wyoming Extension, Laramie, WY, USA, 4University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
Private ranches steward almost half of Wyoming's 62 million acres. Food production and conservation
benefits depend on native ecosystems managed by these operations. What is a "typical" ranch in
Wyoming, and how do ranches manage natural resources? In cooperation with the Wyoming Stock
Growers Association (WSGA)-a predominant agricultural organization in the state-we asked WSGA
producer members about their individual goals, ranching operation characteristics, and management
practices via a mail survey. A total of 303 ranchers (46%) responded to the survey. Across this group of
respondents, results indicate Wyoming ranches are very diverse in terms of land uses, ownership,
vegetation types, and management. Several general themes emerged. Over 50% of reporting operations
1) consist of public or private leased land in addition to privately owned land, 2) graze cow-calf pairs in
grassland and sagebrush ecosystems, and 3) include other activities (e.g. hunting, energy development)
that affect land management. Livestock production and forage production were the top reported goals,
with ecosystem characteristics that support these goals (e.g. soil health, water quality) coming in second.
Over 50% of respondents reported they worked toward these goals via vegetation management and
landscape enhancements, in addition to herd management and facilities. The diversity of operations
suggests that efforts to improve food production and conservation in Wyoming should involve
partnerships among landowners, public land managers, and other stakeholders at a landscape scale.
Efforts that focus on livestock and forage production and supporting ecosystem functions are most likely
to find synergies with ongoing management goals and strategies.
0287
Evaluating the Impact of Wyoming Big Sagebrush Fuel Loads on Bunchgrass Mortality Following
a Fire Event
April Hulet, Chad Boyd, Tony Svejcar
Agricultural Research Service, Burns, OR, USA
Fire temperatures can vary spatially due to fuel loading characteristics and burn conditions. The
influence of fuel loads, particularly that of sagebrush, on bunchgrass mortality following a wildfire is
largely unknown. In this study, we quantified pre-burn shrub fuel loads and its impact on bluebunch
wheatgrass and Idaho fescue mortality. We used a randomized complete block design with varying
amounts of shrub fuel loads per plot. Within each plot and for each bunchgrass species, two locations
relative to sagebrush plants were selected: one within a sagebrush canopy and one in an
interspace. Each bunchgrass was instrumented with four, type-K thermocouples immediately before the
burn at the following locations: 2cm below the soil surface, at the growing point in the center of the plant,
at the growing point within 2 cm of the edge of the plant, and 8-10 cm above the soil surface in the center
of the plant. Preliminary results suggest that bunchgrass plants within sagebrush canopies were exposed
to lethal temperatures (>50° C) longer than bunchgrass plants found in the interspace. Plots with greater
sagebrush fuel loads, were more likely to create fire conditions severe enough to kill bunchgrass plants
both within shrub canopies as well as interspace plants. As we increase our understanding regarding the
influence of Wyoming big sagebrush on bunchgrass mortality, we can better prioritize fire rehabilitation
efforts and identify communities where pre-emptive restoration practices can be implemented.
0288
Prediction of rangeland forage quality via near infrared spectroscopy in a mobile field laboratory.
Stephen Prince1, Marco Bomfim1, Jay Angerer1, Doug Tolleson2
1Texas AgriLife Research, Center for Natural Resource Information Technology, Blackland Research and
Extension Center, Temple, TX, USA, 2The University of Arizona, School of Natural Resources and the
Environment, V Bar V Ranch, Camp Verde, AZ, USA
The application of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in natural resource management will be enhanced
by the improved performance of calibrations in the field. Our objective was to evaluate the performance of
crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) calibrations developed under mobile field laboratory
conditions on a Perten 7200 diode array NIRS instrument. Thirty two samples from a variety of grass,
shrub, succulent, and forb species were collected on a commercial cattle ranch in the Trans-Pecos area
of West Texas in Spring 2012 and subjected to NIRS and reference chemistry procedures. The NIRS
instrument, drying oven, and grinder were transported to the ranch and operated in a concrete-floored
metal shop building. Spectra (950 to 1650 nm) were collected at the ranch on all samples after drying at
60 C overnight and grinding to 1mm. AOAC procedures were used to quantify CP and NDF at a Texas
A&M University facility. Calibrations were developed in Grams software using partial least squares
regression. Calibration performance was evaluated using cross validation. Mean and standard error (SE)
for percent CP and NDF in the calibration set were 8.55 ± 1.08 and 55.77 ± 2.07 respectively. The CP
calibration resulted in an R2 of 0.91 and SE of cross validation of 1.79. Similar calibration performance
statistics for NDF were 0.91 and 3.47 respectively. Both forage quality constituents were predicted
accurately enough to inform nutritional management of grazing animals. Larger calibration sets
encompassing greater spatial and temporal variation should help improve NIRS performance in mobile
laboratories.
0293
Rangland Management on the Seward Peninsul, Alaska
Kacey Capuchino1, Joyce Pexton1, Greg Finstad2, Laurie Thorpe3
1University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Fairbanks Alaska, USA, 2Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo
CA, USA, 3Alaskan BLM, Anchorage Alaska, USA
Domestic reindeer are one of the primary range livestock used for red meat production in Alaska.
However, there has been a lack of technical evaluation and monitoring the effect of reindeer grazing on
their primary winter forage, lichen. A project was initiated to measure the impact of reindeer grazing on
the Seward Peninsula to help estimatethe stocking density of ranges. Monitoring sites with exclosures
were placed randomly to estimate lichen offtake and recovery rates. High resolution photography and
physical estimation of percent-cover sampling of vegetation were used to establish baseline values. One
of the challenges was to find a suitable design for exclosures to withstand the weather conditions such as
wind and snow, as well as the permafrost and uneven terrain of the Alaskan tundra. Traditional post-inground construction isn't feasible because of the freezing and thawing of the tundra so "floating"
exclosures were used that simply sit on top of the tundra in a circular design. The exclosures put up in
the first year did have some engineering faults such as staying upright on steeper slopes. To correct this
stakes and guide wires were attached uphill to keep the panels from collapsing inward. The exclosures
and associated lichen and vegetation plots will be monitored for the next 30 years.
0304
California-Pacific Section Range and Natural Resources Youth Camp Curriculum - Modifications
and Challenges
Julie Finzel1, Marc Horney2, Cece Dahlstrom3, Theresa Becchetti4
1University of California Cooperative Extension, Bakersfield, CA, USA, 2Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, San
Luis Obispo, CA, USA, 3Department of the Navy, San Diego, CA, USA, 4University of California
Cooperative Extension, Modesto, CA, USA
In the last five years, the Cal-Pac Section's Range Camp staff have made significant changes to the
botany curriculum in order to facilitate a more practical understanding of plant ecology and to encourage
students as they learn plant names for the first time. These included a booklet modeled after one
developed by the International Mountain Section. This booklet provides prompts where students can take
notes on the topics covered by speakers and can be used to study for the comprehensive exam that all
students take at the end of camp. The camp's botany curriculum has also been shifted in the taxonomic
characteristics it emphasizes, and the types of plant species included in their identification list. Plant ID
scores have improved substantially in the last several years that these changes have been implemented.
With these and other curriculum changes, the Cal-Pac Range Camp staff hope to improve the
educational component of the camp, and teach some skills that may last longer with camp participants.
0308
VARIATIONS OF UNDERGROUND MORPHOLOGY OF FALCATA ALFALFA AFTER FIRST YEAR
DORMANCY
Lan Xu, Arvid Boe, Roger Gates, Patricia Johnson
South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
Plants persist in a community through regeneration initiated from dynamic seed and bud banks. Although
seeds are important for dispersal, initial colonization, and maintenance of genetic diversity, under grazing
seed production often is unreliable. Communities dominated by perennial species depend heavily on
vegetative reproduction through bud banks. These dormant meristematic structures (i.e. rhizome buds,
crown buds, and adventitious buds) represent a potential source of vegetative regeneration and
regrowth. Yellow-flowered alfalfa (Medicago falcata) produces broad, deep-set crowns, a large number of
rhizomes and adventitious buds and shoots on the roots. Our objectives are to evaluate variation in
underground morphological traits contributing to vegetative reproduction and to identify potential parent
materials for breeding grazing persistent alfalfa cultivars. Ten alfalfa entries, including one Medicago
sativa control, three naturalized predominately yellow-flowered alfalfa populations, and six Medicago
falcata populations were evaluated. One hundred uniform seeds were selected from each entry. Seeds
were scarified and inoculated with rhizobium before planting in plastic cone containers. After seedling
completed first year dormancy under an ambient day/night photoperiod cycle in a greenhouse, ten plants
from each population were randomly selected and excavated to examine variation among underground
morphological traits: crown diameter, rhizome, branch root, adventitious root number, angle and number
of shoots from crown. Additionally, 25 plants from each population were randomly selected to assess the
capacity of root segments to produce adventitious shoots.
0309
Groundwater Movement and Loss through Anthropogenic Ponds in Restored Meadow Streams
Adam McMahon, Sherman Swanson
University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA
Stream degradation in the Sierra Nevada has led to restoration using pond-and-plug techniques. This
technique uses earth dams or plugs to fill eroded gullies, which then fill with water, creating a series of
ponds. Stream flows divert into an historic or designed channel that is connected to the historic flood
plain. Raised groundwater elevations, increased flooding frequency and energy dissipation return
meadows to natural function and wet-meadow vegetation rebounds. Little research has addressed the
hydrology of the created ponds, which present a large surface area of open water to evaporation. This
may be a large "sink" or water loss. Three hydrologic models have been proposed for groundwater
movement in meadows, "sponge, valve, and drain". Meadows can: soak and slow the movement of
groundwater, supply groundwater through springs, or drain groundwater through deep discharge.
Objectives of this research are to: 1. Compare water levels in ponds and streams to describe aquifer
recharge; 2. Evaluate pond water levels through time and space to establish which hydrologic model each
meadow may resemble; and 3. Examine whether pond evaporation is reducing stream base flows in the
late season. Water Level Data Loggers and surveying technique will record: 1. Pond water elevation; and
2. Pond water surface area. Stream discharge will be measured entering and leaving restored areas
using stage-discharge relationships and water level loggers. Evaporation will be calculated from regional
metrological stations. Collected data will be analyzed over time and distance. Surface water elevations
between ponds and streams will be compared to observe interaction.
0315
Sage-grouse habitat models for the state of utah.
Chris Balzotti1 ,2, Philip Dennison1, Steven Petersen2, Randy Larsen2, Richard Forester1, Mitchell Power1
1University of Utah, SLC UTAH, USA, 2BYU, provo utah, USA
Concern over greater sage-grouse management has increased over recent years and Utah land
managers are in the process of improving their sage-grouse protection plans. Some of the challenges to
sage-grouse management in Utah are the extensive areas of potential habitat, the cost of assessment
and the diverse land ownership (private, BLM, DWR, Forest Service, Native American, etc.). To assist
with this process, we created statewide predictive models using multiple methods to delineate potential
sage-grouse habitat. Non-parametric multiplicative regression was utilized to create sagebrush presence
models. Total vegetation cover models were created using generalized additive models. These were then
combined with topographic and climate variables in Maxent to delineate potential sage-grouse habitat.
Finally, multiple global climate and emission scenarios were used to identify sagebrush areas within the
state of Utah that may be prone to change for years 2020, 2050, and 2080. All models, with the exception
of climate models, were assessed using both model strength (during creation) and validation (as defined
by overall accuracy compared to field collected data). The statewide sagebrush cover model (sagebrush
greater than 5 percent) had a logB of 6.4 and an overall accuracy of 63%. The total vegetation model had
a R2 of 0.596 and an overall accuracy of 70% (within 10% of ground data). The Sage-grouse nest model
had an AUC of 0.93 and an overall accuracy of 91%.
0316
Wild Horse and Burro Utilization and Population Estimates in the Cibola Trigo Herd Management
Area
John Hall
Bureau of Land Management, Yuma, az, USA
The Cibola-Trigo Herd Management Area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is
overpopulated by wild burros, with approximately 215 wild burros exceeding the appropriate management
level. In order to manage the population at a thriving natural ecological balance, annual utilization studies
and a population estimate every three years are conducted in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish,
the Fish and Wildlife Service, and Yuma Proving Grounds. The current data collection method is aimed
at determining if a relationship exists between utilization rate and population size. Preliminary results
show there is a slight correlation between utilization and population size (R 2= 0.0313). Continuing data
collection may show a stronger correlation between utilization rate and population size.
0318
The influence of fire severity on ecological succession patterns within an aspen-conifer post-fire
community
Steven Petersen1, Standley Kitchen0 ,2
1Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA, 2Rocky Mountain Research Station, Shrub Sciences
Laboratory, Provo, Utah, USA
Post-fire succession within mixed aspen-confier woodlands of western North America is poorly
understood. Research is needed that investigates the influence of fire severity on both short-term and
long-term plant community establishment and succession. Between July 20 to October 16, 2010, the
Twitchell Canyon fire burned across the Tushar mountains in southwestern Utah consuming
approximately 18,160 hectares. The fire burned with variable severity through single or mixed stands
of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), Engelman spruce (Picea
engelmannii, Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga mensezii) and white fir (Abies concolor). Fire severity classes
(low, moderate, high, none) were determined using Landsat satellite imagery. Tree age was measured by
counting the rings of cores collected from a subset of trees within each plot. Tree strucutre was calculated
using DBH and distance based measurements. Herbaceous cover and frequency were estimated using
the point intercept and nested frequency methods. Aspen regeneration was determined by counting the
number of shoots within subplots. Results indicate that across all vegetaion types, low, moderate, and
high severity caused 35, 69, and 100% tree mortality. Aspen shoots were found on 81% of plots across
all severity classes. Understory species were dominated in cover by root sprouters (both herbacous and
shrubs) and disturbance adapted herbacous species. Using these data, managers can predict succession
patterns in aspen and mixed-aspen communities after fire.
0319
Improving rangeland seeding success in post-fire water repellent soil using surfactant seed
coating technology
Matthew Madsen1, Daniel Zvirzdin2, Kaitlynn Fernelius2, Bruce Roundy2
1USDA - Agricultural Research Service, Burns, OR, USA, 2Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
Severe disturbance from catastrophic wildfires often requires that native plant materials be reintroduced
through reseeding, but the success rate of these restoration efforts in arid environments is notoriously
low. Post-fire soil water repellency can limit reseeding success by decreasing soil moisture for seed
germination and establishment. Surfactant seed coating (SSC) technology may help to overcome this
limitation. Laboratory testing has shown that by coating seeds with soil surfactant, water repellency within
the seed's microsite can be ameliorated, which increases root-zone water reserves and enhances
seedling emergence and plant survival. The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of
SSC technology on plant establishment within recently burned pinyon-juniper (Pinus-Juniperus)
woodlands. The study design consisted of a randomized complete-block design with two treatments
(seeds left uncoated or coated with SSC) applied to two bunchgrass species. We implemented the
treatments in 2010 and 2011 at two separate wildfire locations. At the 2010 site, plant establishment from
SSC was between 2.0-4.2 fold higher than the uncoated seed two years after planting. Plantings in 2011
had 7.5-fold more seedlings emerge in the SSC treatment, for one of the two species sown the first year
after treatment; however, due to severe drought conditions the majority of emerged seedlings desiccated
during the first year, resulting in poor plant establishment for all treatments (i.e. less than 1-plant·m-2).
These preliminary results demonstrate the ability of SSC technology to improve reseeding success, but
additional research is needed to further improve the efficacy of SSC technology on drought years.
0321
Carbon Stock in Chihuahua grasslands under different range conditions
Pedro Jurado-Guerra1, Martin Juárez-Morales2, Carlos Ortega-Ochoa2, Alicia Melgoza-Castillo2
1Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agricolas y Pecuarias, Chihuahua, Mexico,
2Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico
Range condition as a result of rangeland management and climate might have an effect on soil carbon
stocks. The objective was to determine soil carbon stocks at shortgrass prairies with different range
condition in Chihuahua, Mexico. Four sites with different plant cover and productivity were selected in
central and southern Chihuahua. In each site, three field plots with three 50 m transects each were
established. Plant composition was estimated using the point intercept method. Range condition was
determined in each site using the climax method. Soil samples were taken at each transect at two
microsites (bare soil and underneath B. gracilis) and two soil depths (0-15 and 15-30 cm). A composite
sample was used for chemical analysis. Soil organic carbon (SOC) was estimated through an elemental
analyzer equipment. Soil carbon stocks were estimated using SOC and soil bulk density. Most abundant
grasses were Bouteloua gracilis and Aristida spp. Based on plant composition, two sites were found at
poor range condition and two at good range condition. Data was analyzed with lineal models to determine
condition, microsite and soil depth effects. Results showed both condition and microsite significant effects
(P≤0.001). Total soil carbon was 23.30 ton C ha-1 and 26.72 t C ha-1 for bare soil and underneath B.
gracilis, respectively. Soil carbon stock appeared to be greater under good range condition and
underneath grass plants. Soil depth did not influence soil carbon stocks.
0322
Use of Biosol Forte as a seed coating to improve stand establishment of native bunchgrass
species
Matthew Madsen, Kristen Munday
USDA - Agricultural Research Service, Burns, OR, USA
Applying fertilizers at the time of planting may improve native plant establishment by increasing the ability
of the seedlings to cope with environmental stresses. However, traditional fertilizer applications are often
economically infeasible and may be detrimental by encouraging weed invasion. Seed coating technology
allows for the efficient application of fertilizers within the microsite of the seeded species. The objective of
this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the slow-release fertilizer Biosol Forte® for use as a seed
coating treatment to improve seedling emergence and plant establishment. Biosol coated seeds and nontreated seed were compared, using Pseudoroegneria spicata and Leymus cinereus as the model species.
Seeds were coated with Biosol in a rotary coater at 60% weight of product per weight of seed. The study
design consisted of factorially arranging the two species and two treatments in a randomized completeblock design, within a droughty-loam ecological site, in eastern Oregon, USA. Plant density was counted
in the spring of the first year (May 2012). At the end of the growing season (August 2012) plant density
was recounted and above-ground biomass was harvested. Biosol coated seed increased the number of
established L. cinereus plants by 130% and improved biomass production by 156%. Established plant
density and biomass production of P. spicata was 49% and 53% higher in the Biosol coating treatment.
These preliminary results indicate that a Biosol seed coating can be effective in improving stand
establishment of native bunchgrass species. Additional research is needed to determine long-term
response of the treatment.
0324
Post-Fire Soil Water Repellency: Persistence within Piñon-Juniper Woodlands
Daniel Zvirzdin1, Matthew Madsen2, Bruce Roundy0
1Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA, 2USDA - Agricultural Research Service, Burn, OR, USA
Erosion and weed dominance often limit the recovery of burned piñon-juniper woodlands. Soil water
repellency (SWR) is one factor that may contribute to this by increasing overland flow and impeding
seedling establishment. Previous research has shown that SWR is widespread within piñon-juniper
woodlands; however, the persistence of SWR within these systems is unknown. In this study, SWR
extent, severity, and thickness were sampled for three years within 41 1000 m2 subplots nested in three
major wildfires that burned in the Great Basin in 2009. These data were used in concert to determine the
effects of climate, topography, soil attributes, burn severity, and piñon-juniper height, width, canopy cover,
and age on SWR persistence. Across the study, SWR was found at 37% of the points sampled in the first
year, 22% in the second, and 18% in the third; over 80% of the total decline in SWR extent occurred in
the first year. This decline followed no clear trends relative to ecological site characteristics, especially
when viewed at the subplot level. However, the severity of SWR the first year following fire showed some
relative strength to SWR persistence: sites with the highest SWR severity also had the lowest declines in
SWR extent over time. As invasive weeds often colonize areas where SWR has dissipated, these results
support the conclusion that if weed dominance is to be averted in areas with moderate levels of SWR,
desirable species need to be quickly established the first year after fire.
0325
Are early summer wildfires an opportunity to revegetate medusahead-invaded rangelands?
Dustin Johnson1, Aleta Nafus1, Kirk Davies2
1Oregon State University, Burns, OR, USA, 2USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Burns, OR, USA
Successful revegetation of medusdahead-invaded plant communities can be prohibitively expensive,
because it often requires iterative applications of integrated control and revegetation treatments.
Prescribed burning has been used to control medusahead and prepare seedbeds for revegetation, but
burning has been constrained by liability concerns and produced widely varying results. Capitalizing on
naturally occurring wildfires could reduce revegetation costs and alleviate liability concerns. Thus, our
objective was to determine if early summer wildfires and fall drill seeding could be used as a treatment
combination to decrease medusahead and increase perennial and native vegetation. Treatments were
evaluated pre-treatment and for three years post-fire at six sites and included: 1) an early summer wildfire
combined with a seeding treatment (burn and seed) and 2) a non-treated (no burn, no seed) control.
Perennial grass density was 4.6- to 10.0-fold greater in the burn and seed treatment compared to the
control in the first three years post-treatment (P < 0.05). Exotic annual grass density and cover in the third
year post-treatment were lower in burn and seed treatment than in the control (P < 0.05). However, exotic
annual grass density was still > 130 individuals·m-2 in the burn and seed treatment. The density of exotic
annual grass is of concern because over time medusahead may displace perennial grasses and annual
forbs that increased with the burn and seed treatment. However, it appears that early summer wildfires
may provide an opportunity to reduce the cost of integrated programs to revegetate medusahead-invaded
plant communities.
0327
Nitrogen fertilization and ration supplementation reduces annuals in smooth bromegrass pastures
John Guretzky, Walter Schacht, Laura Snell, Jonathan Soper, Stephanie Pruitt, Andrea Watson, Terry
Klopfenstein
University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
Supplementation of corn (Zea mays L.) dried distillers grains plus solubles (DDGS) reduces forage
demand and improves N use efficiency of beef cattle. Our objective was to evaluate how
supplementation of DDGS on unfertilized pasture (SUPP) affects botanical composition relative to
unsupplemented beef cattle on N fertilized (FERT) and unfertilized control (CONT) smooth bromegrass
(Bromus inermis Leyss.) pasture. From 2010 to 2011, we measured relative basal cover, aerial cover,
and frequency of occurrence of plant species and functional groups, as well as forage yields, within an
ongoing experiment near Mead, NE, where N input has averaged 6.5, 55.4, and 96.5 kg ha -1 yr-1 within
CONT, SUPP, and FERT, respectively, since 2005. We found relative basal and foliar cover of plant
species and functional groups depended on treatment and year interactions. From 2010 to 2011, relative
basal cover of smooth bromegrass decreased by 23.6, 11.6, and 3.9 percentage points while relative
basal cover of annuals increased by 18.3, 8.2, and 0.8 percentage points in CONT, SUPP, and FERT,
respectively. Measurements of frequency of occurrence showed annuals were most in CONT,
intermediate in SUPP, and least in FERT in both years. Forage yield of smooth bromegrass averaged
6.063, 6.496, and 10.437 Mg ha-1 yr-1 in CONT, SUPP, and FERT, respectively. Supplementation of
DDGS on unfertilized pastures improves beef cattle weight gains, production, and N use efficiency
relative to unsupplemented cattle on fertilized and unfertilized pastures while providing an intermediate
level of annuals.