 Sagebrush its distinctive scent permeates Wyoming's air and its foliage provides the distinctive grayish hue to many of our landscapes Basin big sagebrush is the biggest species in the cowboy state Almost two-thirds of Wyoming is populated by sage. It is the naturally dominant or climax species on much of that ground Sagebrush prospers where there is winter snow and it helps perpetuate itself by intercepting blowing snow creating many drifts and using the water when they melt Most sagebrushes need to waste high but the basin big sagebrush subspecies can grow to nearly tree-like stature in ravines or other favorable places Sagebrush is an essential food and habitat requirement for deer, antelope, sage grouse and many other wildlife species especially in winter. You can imagine how this would create superb winter cover Love it or hate it sagebrush is the quintessential Wyoming plant From the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service. I'm Barton Stamm exploring the nature of Wyoming