The value of fringed sagebrush to wildlife and livestock varies seasonally and geographically. For many wildlife species it is a preferred forage during spring, fall, and winter but is of little value during summer. Fringed sagebrush has comprised 35 to 63 percent of the winter diet of bighorn in parts of British Columbia. 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.