Grassland and shrubland habitat types of western Montana /

A classification system is presented for the grasslands and shrublands of the mountainous western third of Montana.The classi- fication utilizes the habitat type concept and is based upon potent- ial natural vegetation.Data on plant species and environment from 580 relatively undisturbed stands were analyzed to form the classification.Twenty-nine habitat types occurring in 13 climax series are defined and described.A diagnostic key utilizing indicator plant species is provided for field identification of the habitat types.Vegetation composition, distribution, and environment of each habitat type are described in the text.Tables are provided for detailed comparisons.Management related information on forage productivity, composition changes with grazing, and range manage- ment practices is summarized for each type.