Aspen Decline, Aspen Chemistry, and Elk Herbivory: Are They Linked?

Aspen Decline , Aspen Chemistry , and Elk Herbivory : Are They Linked ?

A spen (Populus tremuloides) provides important habitat for mammals and birds 1–3 , improves water retention in watersheds, 4 and has high aesthetic appeal in autumn. However, the amount and quality of aspen cover in the West has been declining for many years. For example, aspen cover in the Dixie and Fishlake National forests in Utah has decreased by more than 60% from historic levels, and in ...

Aspen, Elk and Wolves in Yellowstone: Are Aspen Recovering Since the Return of Wolves

Predation Risk, Elk, and Aspen: Comment

Model-based assessment of aspen responses to elk herbivory in Rocky Mountain National Park, USA.

In Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) has been observed to be declining on elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni) winter range for many decades. To support elk management decisions, the SAVANNA ecosystem model was adapted to explore interactions between elk herbivory and aspen dynamics. The simulated probability of successful vegetative regeneration for senescent aspe...

After long-term decline, are aspen recovering in northern Yellowstone?

In northern Yellowstone National Park, quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) stands were dying out in the late 20th century following decades of intensive browsing by Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus). In 1995–1996 gray wolves (Canis lupus) were reintroduced, joining bears (Ursus spp.) and cougars (Puma concolor) to complete the guild of large carnivores that prey on elk. This was followed by a...