revision preference src: Though little of this ecoregion is protected, it is largely intact due to the harsh climate and resulting poor agricultural potential. However, heavy livestock grazing, fire suppression and the introduction of non-native plants (especially grasses) have resulted in some areas being significantly altered. <SEP> tgt: Though little of this ecoregion is protected, it is largely intact due to the harsh climate and resulting poor agricultural potential. Heavy livestock grazing, fire suppression and the introduction of non-native plants (especially grasses) have resulted in some areas being significantly altered.