What strategy could mitigate damage caused by pocket gophers?

Using barriers to protect roots is an effective strategy for mitigating damage caused by pocket gophers. These rodents tend to burrow underground and can cause significant harm to plant roots as they feed on various vegetation. By installing physical barriers, such as wire mesh or hardware cloth, around the root zones of susceptible plants, you can create a protective shield that prevents gophers from reaching and damaging the roots.

This strategy is proactive and allows for the protection of valuable plants without having to resort to more drastic measures that could disrupt the ecosystem, such as complete removal of trees or allowing natural areas to become unmanaged. While promoting additional herbaceous plants might contribute to biodiversity, it does not directly address the specific threat posed by gophers. Additionally, leaving the area unmanaged could exacerbate the problem as gopher populations could remain unchecked, leading to greater damage. Therefore, the use of barriers represents a straightforward, direct approach to safeguarding roots from gopher activity.