Long-term heavy-grazing effects on soil and vegetation in the four corners region
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Authors: A. B. Orodho, M. J. Trlica, and C. D. Bonham
Date: 1990
Journal: Southwestern Naturalist
Volume: 35
Number: 1
Pages: 9-14
Summary of Methods: In New Mexico, Orodho et al. determined the effects of previous heavy grazing for over 50 years on soil compaction and moisture, herbage production, cover and density of natural vegetation, and abundance of the dominant grass species, Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis hymenoides). Soil compaction was greater in grazed areas. Soil moisture was greatest on the hillside position where greatest herbage production for Indian ricegrass was found. Past grazing use did not affect above-ground biomass of Indian ricegrass, other grasses, or forbs, but grazing caused a decrease in litter accumulation. The greatest biomass of Indian ricegrass was found on the hillside. Long-term heavy grazing has resulted in a reduction of desirable shrub vegetation at the Chaco Canyon study area in New Mexico.
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: grazing, soil compaction, soil moisture, indian ricegrass, oryzopsis hymenoides
Annotation: Randomly selected quadrats, that represented 20% of the total 45 quadrats sampled in every plot, were clipped as close to the ground as possible in late July.
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