Effects of controlling black-tailed prairie dogs on plant production
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Authors: D. W. Uresk
Date: 1985
Journal: Journal of Range Management
Volume: 38
Number: 5
Pages: 466-468
Summary of Methods: Uresk determined the effects of controlling black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) on pastures with or without cattle grazing in South Dakota. Compared to a control pasture that was not grazed by black-tailed prairie dogs or cattle, no differences in forage production were evident until four years after prairie dog control. Yield of western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii), buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides), and needleleaf sedge (Carex eleocharis) were significantly lower on pastures previously grazed by prairie dogs, with or without cattle, indicating that four years was not long enough for pastures to recover from prairie dog use. Compared to pastures without cattle grazing, buffalograss and needleleaf sedge production were slightly lower in pastures with cattle grazing, however, the differences were quite small and Uresk concluded that cattle grazing would simply slow the recovery process on pastures after prairie dog control.
Article Summary / Main Points: None
Vegetation Types:
MLRA Ecoregions:
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Wildlife
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Experimental Research
Keywords: cynomys ludovicianus, yield, grazing, recovery, pasture management, pest control
Annotation: Grazing intensity is not specified.
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