Effect of Reindeer Trampling and Grazing on Lichens
Pegau RE. 1970. Effect of Reindeer Trampling and Grazing on Lichens. Journal of Range Management. 23(2):95-97
A herd of approximately 500 reindeer was herded over a non-utilized portion of a large Eriophorum-Carex-dwarf shrub meadow near Nome, Alaska during both moist and dry conditions. After one summer of use on approximately 17 sections by the reindeer, 68% of the lichens were dislodged and 16% were shattered into segments less than 1/2 inch. On summer ranges where lichens comprise at least 30% of the available forage, at least 15% of the lichens should be considered as unavailable because of trampling reindeer.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Pegau, Robert
- Units
- ARCN , BELA , CAKR , GAAR , KOVA , NOAT
- Keywords
- Arctic, Nome, Rangifer tarandus, Reindeer, Reindeer herding, Seward Peninsula