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6 Studies using tree-ring and pollen analysis, although yielding some • divergent results, have indicated some general patterns of climatic fluc- tuation (Antevs 1955, [3ryson and ldendland 1967, J. Jennings 1977, Martin 1963, Schoenwetter 1970, Schulman 1956). After the last glaciation, there was a period of fairly moist conditions, followed .by alternating periods of relative dryness and wetness until the mid-19th century, at which time • the present combination of dryness and higher temperatures began. Four plant corrnunities were observed in the survey area. The non- native communities include a large wheatfield presently under cultivation and other areas which have been previously cultivated or otherwise distur- bed. The dominant vegetational form of the disturbed areas is Russian thistle (salsola iberica), a plant often associated tajth surface disturbance. Some sage was noted in areas which were disturbed some time ago, indicating • some regeneration of native plant types. - The two natural vegetational groups are tite sagebrush and mountain shrub ~•- eommunities. The former consists mainly of sagebrush (Artemesia tridentata) - with an understory of beardless wfteatgrass (Agropyron inerme), Indian rice- grass,(oryzopsis hymenoiaes), and various other grasses. This community v+as found in the lor+er, more level parts of the survey area. The mountain shrub community.consists of serviceberry (Amelanchier a2nifolia), Gantbel'S oak (Quercus gambelii), and juniper (Jufiiperus), with some bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata), rabbitbrush (Cl~rysothanutt7s spp.), and sage. This community was found at higher elevations, both on ridgetops and steep slopes. Fauna in the area which could affect subsistence include elk (cervi,s • camadensis), Mule deer (odocoileus hemionus), black bear (Ursus emericanuc), • Cottontdll rabbit (::ylvilagus spp.), muskrat (OndaCra zibetlticus), beaver (Castor canaacnsis), waterfowl, and fish. .~ _.