Differential effects of cattle and sheep grazing on high mountain meadows in the Strawberry Valley of central Utah

Authors

J. B. Shupe, Soil Conservation Service, Sterling, Colorado
Jack D. Brotherson, Brigham Young University

Abstract

Species diversity, niche metrics, cover, frequency, and soil relationships were studied on high mountain meadows on adjacent cattle and sheep allotments in Strawberry Valley, Wasatch County, Utah. The cattle allotment vegetation was predominantly Mountain bluebell (Mertensia ciliata), and the sheep allotment vegetation was predominantly Smallwing sedge (Carex microptera). Other species of importance on both areas included Letterman needlegrass (Stipa lettermanii), Mountain bromegrass (Bromus carinatus), and Yarrow (Achillea millefolium). Tall forbs were most abundant on the cattle allotment, and low forbs, perennial grasses, and sedges were most abundant on the sheep allotment. Vegetation composition on the two allotments was significantly different.

Recommended Citation

Shupe, J. B. and Brotherson, Jack D. (1985) "Differential effects of cattle and sheep grazing on high mountain meadows in the Strawberry Valley of central Utah," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 45: No. 1, Article 20.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol45/iss1/20