Reversing Tree Encroachment Increases Usable Space for Sage?Grouse during the Breeding Season

In the Great Basin, coniferous trees are expanding their range at a rate higher than any other time during Holocene. Approximately 90% of expansion has occurred in ecosystems previously dominated by sagebrush (Artemisia spp.). Transitions from open, steppe to woodlands considered threat greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), obligate gallinaceous bird that occupies approximately 56% its pre-European settlement distribution. Using telemetry data set 2010–2017 breeding seasons for treatment area with conifer removal and an experimental control area, we assessed efficacy increasing usable space determined relative probability use landscape impacted expansion. Sage-grouse increasingly selected areas closer removals were 26% more likely each year after removal. most select where cover had been reduced ?10%. The proportion available locations having high increased 5% 31% between 2011 2017 lowest decreased 57% 21% over same period. Dynamics stochastic or stable did not demonstrate clear temporal trends area. Targeted is effective tool season restoring landscapes affected © 2021 Authors. Wildlife Society Bulletin published Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf Society.