In some areas, it is the single most important forage plant of Dall sheep from December through April. A number of bird species consume fringed sagebrush wherever available. Fringed sagebrush is used to some degree by cattle and by domestic sheep and goats. In many areas, fringed sagebrush is considered very good forage for domestic sheep and goats, particularly during the spring, fall, and winter. Palatability varies geographically and seasonally.
Fringed sagebrush provides at least fair energy and protein value.
This species rates relatively high in dry matter digestibility, digestible energy, and digestible protein. It met or exceeded crude protein and phosphorus requirements for wintering deer in South Dakota. Fringed sagebrush can provide up to 45 percent of digestible dry matter content in spring, and 59.5 percent in winter. The overall average crude protein level is 9.3 percent, which equates to approximately 2.20 pounds per acre. The food value of fringed sagebush varies according to phenological development and perhaps ecotype as well.