Sagebrush-steppe habitats throughout much of the American west have become degraded due to a combination of decades of mismanagement, fire suppression, and the lack of large native herbivores.   In the absence of occasional disturbance, sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) ecosystems may be found lacking in diversity and abundance of forbs, grasses, and their associated insects believed to be essential to many sagebrush obligate species such as the greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus).  Proposed an umbrella species whose management may be beneficial to numerous species, greater sage-grouse populations have been in decline throughout their range.  The conversion of sagebrush steppe to other cover types is believed to be a leading cause for the decline of sage-grouse populations.  However, research has shown that brood-rearing habitat (typically characterized by lower sagebrush cover and greater forb and grass cover) may be limiting some populations.  Traditional methods of manipulating sagebrush for sage-grouse (Dixie harrow, Lawson aerator, herbicides) are fossil-fuel intensive, controversial on public lands, often short lived, and must be applied at large scales to be economical.  Recent studies suggest that strategic intensive grazing by domestic sheep (Ovis aries) may have the potential to replace, or supplement, conventional methods of managing sage-grouse habitats.  Strategic intensive sheep grazing can reduce sagebrush cover through consumption and trampling while promoting forbs and grasses through resource reallocation.  Proper timing and supplementation are essential to maximize consumption of sagebrush by sheep and minimize the risk of harming forb and grass populations.  Additionally, sheep grazing can be applied with precision, allowing managers to achieve a desired level of utilization in areas and at scales where it will be most beneficial.