Long-term vegetation dynamics of plains rough fescue, Festuca hallii, grassland in Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba

Abstract

This study examines changes in vegetation composition, community structure, and species diversity in plains rough fescue (Festuca hallii) grasslands in Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba between 1973 and 1995. In 1973, thirty-three permanent transects were established and sampled by Gary Trottier to determine range conditions following cessation of cattle grazing in the Park in 1970. The transects were established in areas previously exposed to varying intensities of cattle grazing. Grazing group A consists of 11 transects established in areas of light grazing; group B consists of 13 transects in areas of moderate grazing; and group C consists of 9 transects in areas of heavy grazing. In the summer of 1995 the 33 permanent transects were resampled using the same modified point line method used in 1973. Recommendations for the management of plains rough fescue grasslands in Riding Mountain National Park are presented. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)