Preface: Montana Sagebrush: A Taxonomic Key and Habitat Descriptions

Abstract

The landscape of the western United States is typified by diverse sagebrush flora. Many sagebrush taxa are habitat type dominants strongly associated with native fauna. No wildlife species illustrates this association better than the sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), an important upland game bird species that is almost totally dependent on sagebrush for food and cover. The sage grouse and other native fauna associated with sagebrush plant communities have become a concern due to declining numbers in many areas.