This study consisted of two research projects in the Wyoming big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis (Beetle & A. Young) S.L. Welsh) alliance, the most extensive of the big sagebrush complex in the Intermountain West. In the first project, we intensively sampled 107 relatively undisturbed, late seral Wyoming big sagebrush...
A causative factor in declining greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus)
populations is reduced annual recruitment due to poor habitat quality. Sage-grouse
population decline is concurrent with a decline in the extent and quality of the
sagebrush (Artemisia sp.) biome. However, current research has shown a positive
relationship between sage-grouse brood and...
Over the last 50 years, riparian zones in the semi-arid West have gained recognition as disproportionately important habitats for both breeding bird communities and agricultural operations. Despite growing interest in exploring avian-habitat relationships in these systems to better inform land management, few studies have attempted to describe temporal changes in...
Knowledge of regional-scale patterns of plant community structure and controlling factors is largely qualitative and based on numerous local studies. Data from a subsample of 10,000 field plots were used to quantify and map compositional gradients of woody plant communities across Oregon forests. Canonical correspondence analyses explained 9-14% of the...
The relationship between ground vegetation and light intensity under a 60 to 65-year-old Douglas-fir forest was investigated. Biomass and height of ground vegetation were measured and cover was estimated on small sample units (30 centimeters in diameter) on permanent research plots, one-acre in size, on the George T. Gerlinger Experimental...
Growing native plants can be rewarding in many ways. They add beauty
with colorful flowers, foliage, texture, and scents. If planted in a suitable habitat, native plants are well adapted to our soils and climate. This reduces the need for supplemental water (once established) and maintenance, and makes it easy...
Native meadows produce a significant portion of the hay used for winter feed in eastern Oregon. Without fertilization, an average meadow will yield approximately 1 ton of hay per acre. With proper fertilization, yields often can be increased by 2 to 3 tons, and hay quality such as protein content...