New Website Compiles Science on Woodland Expansion in the Sagebrush Biome

The new Pinyon-Juniper Encroachment Education Project website will act as a valuable resource to expand understanding of the science and management around woodland encroachment in the sagebrush biome. Key partners on this project include University of Nevada-Reno Extension, NRCS’s Working Lands for Wildlife team, the Bureau of Land Management, and IWJV’s Partnering to Conserve Sagebrush Rangelands partnership.

Sometimes referred to as “the green glacier,” woodlands are slowly moving into currently-treeless rangelands, changing the structure, function, and resilience of these ecosystems. Across the sagebrush biome, shrublands are transitioning to pinyon-juniper and other conifer woodlands at a rate of 0.5% per year.

Sagebrush ecosystems across the West are critical for biodiversity, wildlife habitat, rural livelihoods, economies, and traditional uses, but are struggling to thrive amidst mounting threats. This go-to website resource will play an integral role as managers seek new and innovative ways to enhance and sustain healthy sagebrush rangelands.

A healthy rangeland ecosystem.