Long-term cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) control increases shrub leader growth and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) visitation

On the Ground • Invasive annual grasses like cheatgrass ( Bromus tectorum L.) are widespread and abundant in western North America, where they compete with native plants that are important components of wildlife habitat. • Mule deer ( Odocoileus hemionus ) are an important wildlife species that typically rely on woody shrubs for forage during winter months. • Competition from cheatgrass may limit shrub growth and reduce winter forage availability for mule deer, with potential negative effects on mule deer survival and population growth. Thus, effective cheatgrass management may reduce competition and increase winter forage availability for mule deer. • Herbicide application to control cheatgrass increased shrub leader growth, and data collected with camera traps suggest mule deer may preferentially use herbicide-treated areas during winter. • A wide variety of complex and interacting factors influence mule deer habitat use. Our project represents an important first step, but additional research is necessary to more fully investigate the benefits of effective cheatgrass management for mule deer and other important wildlife species

Agronomy · Biology · Bromus · Bromus tectorum · Invasive species · Odocoileus · Poaceae · Rangeland · Shrub · Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies · Environmental Science · Forest Management and Policy · Rangeland and Wildlife Management · Ecology

• Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L) dominance in the Great Basin Desert

  Open Access•Paul Knapp•Global Environmental Change•1996

  Add to list