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MODELING PLANT SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS ACROSS IDAHO TO INFORM UNGULATE NUTRITION

Citation

Ball, Tara M.. (2018-05). MODELING PLANT SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS ACROSS IDAHO TO INFORM UNGULATE NUTRITION. Theses and Dissertations Collection, University of Idaho Library Digital Collections. https://www.lib.uidaho.edu/digital/etd/items/ball_idaho_0089n_11300.html

Title:
MODELING PLANT SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS ACROSS IDAHO TO INFORM UNGULATE NUTRITION
Author:
Ball, Tara M.
Date:
2018-05
Program:
Natural Resources
Subject Category:
Environmental science; Wildlife management
Abstract:

Abstract

Mechanisms driving ungulate population declines are complex and poorly understood. Limitations in forage availability or quality may be contributing, but current habitat assessments lack fine-scale vegetation information needed to evaluate nutrition. To fill this gap, I developed predictive distribution models for ungulate forage species across Idaho using existing vegetation surveys, maps, and remotely-sensed data. Models predict plant species presence, and provide key insight to species-environment relationships that can aide habitat management strategies to improve nutritional quality. Additionally, I examined elk habitat selection on a summer range in north-central Idaho. Selection was influenced by the presence of herbaceous plant species and wildfire disturbance. Management strategies that re-open matured forest canopies that currently limit herbaceous understory vegetation will be useful for enhancing the nutritional quality of elk summer habitat. Considerations for non-native plant infestations in areas of highly recurrent and severe wildfires will also be important.

Description:
masters, M.S., Natural Resources -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-05
Major Professor:
Strand, Eva K
Committee:
Aycrigg, Jocelyn L; Johnson, Timothy R
Defense Date:
2018-05
Identifier:
Ball_idaho_0089N_11300
Type:
Text
Format Original:
PDF
Format:
application/pdf

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