Effects of western juniper (<i>Juniperus occidentalis</i>) control on ecosystem nitrogen stocks in central Oregon, USA

Abstract Aims In the Oregon of USA, control western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) is an accepted rangeland management practice to restore sagebrush steppe habitats importance wildlife and livestock. The effects cutting on ecosystem nitrogen, however, have not been well addressed although woody plant has important implications for local watershed regional nitrogen pools. Methods We quantified stocks in two adjacent watersheds, comprised a treated (most removed) untreated (juniper removed). Thirteen years after removal, we measured aboveground trees, shrubs, grasses litter both watersheds. also belowground (roots soil) watersheds at soil depths (0–25 25–50 cm). Important Findings Aboveground were 6.9 times greater than considering much larger biomass. However, root 3.1 one due gain understory biomass associated with cutting. Soil 0–25 cm affected by removal. Overall, total did differ between (9536 kg N ha?1) (9456 greatest accumulation (at least 95% nitrogen) resided (soil 0–50 roots) This study provides evidence that benefits removal can be attained without significantly affecting capacity storage.