feet of extreme clipping on both volume and flower stalk 

 production. A partial reduction of competition, as achieved 

 in this study, more than compensates for the detrimental 

 effect of heavy chpping. 



These data exemplify the need for caution when apply- 

 ing results from clipping studies to plants being grazed on the 

 range. The level of competition to which a plant is subjected 

 during clipping trials can greatly influence actual herbage and 

 flower stalk production; even the relative effects of different 

 chpping intensities might be altered. If possible, studies simu- 

 lating grazing of individual species should be conducted un- 

 der conditions of competition similar to those encountered in 

 the plant community where the results will be applied. 



The results of this study imply certain considerations in 

 managing Idaho fescue rangelands. Idaho fescue can with- 

 stand at least occasional heavy removal of its herbage if the 

 surrounding vegetation is also used heavily. However, this is 

 only part of the knowledge required for the formulation of 

 sound management procedures. The response of plants, soils, 

 and animals to repeated high-intensity use is of major impor- 

 tance. This has yet to be determined. 



10 



