Researchers:
Kurt Young, Ph.D. Candidate, Brigham Young University, [email protected]
Bruce Roundy
Study Dates:
May 2006 to May 2010
SageSTEP Study Plots:
Utah sage/woodland sites: Stansbury, Onaqui, Scipio, Greenville Bench
Study Design and Objectives:
This study will look at a variety of responses to juniper mastication:
- Evaluate the effects of juniper mastication on Bromus tectorum and Pseudoroegneria spicata seedling success as affected by mastication-altered soil characteristics.
- Evaluate the effect of location characteristics on juniper decomposition.
- Develop and use wet-thermal time root growth models to explain initial seedling survival as the upper level of plant available soil water recedes to greater depths in the spring.
Bull Hog masticating a juniper tree.
Mulch piles left behind by tree mastication.