Alterations of shrub communities in relation to herbivory in northern Idaho

Characteristics of shrubs were compared inside and outside of 3 wildlife ex closures constructed between 1981 and 1985 in northern Idaho. Eighteen shru b species were identified. 16 of which occurred inside the exclosures and 1 4 outside. Stems per m(2) were greater inside the exclosures than outside f or most species. Twigs per m(2), twig length, twig biomass. and average hei ght of species were greater inside exclosures for all but two species. Over all biomass production was greater than or equal to 26.55 g/m(2) inside exc losures compared to less than or equal to 16.67 g/m(2) outside. These marke d differences in woody vegetation were attributed to ungulate herbivory out side the exclosures.