Areas of Emphasis

Livestock grazing – Livestock grazing is an integral part of rangeland management. Implementation of sustainable livestock grazing practices that are compatible with other uses is the key to successful multiple-use management of rangeland resources.

Fire management – Wildland fire is inevitable and is largely dependent upon fuel availability and resource management practices implemented on the landscape. Prescribed fire for woody plant control is used on rangeland to enhance forage availability for livestock and wildlife, encourage native plant establishment and production, and to promote biological diversity.

Invasive species – Invasion by undesirable plants is one of the most serious ecological and economic threats to rangeland health and productivity. Management and control of invasive species is often complicated by human activities and becomes less economically feasible as invasion progresses. Integrated control strategies are the most effective tools to fight invasive species invasion.

Wildlife – Management strategies to improve and maintain wildlife habitat are increasingly important as critical habitat continues to be diminished in the face of urbanization, increased recreational activity, and other human activities. Silvicultural practices, prescribed fire, prescribed livestock grazing, and landowner education are tools being used to enhance wildlife habitat on rangelands.

Watershed and Riparian – Watersheds and riparian areas are intricately linked, extremely important elements of a rangeland ecosystem. While riparian areas make up only a small portion of the landscape, they have the ability to produce a disproportionate amount of forage and often receive a disproportionate amount of use by livestock and wildlife. Upland management within a watershed is critically important to maintaining the health and quality of habitat for upland-dwelling species as well as for species that thrive in riparian areas.

Cultural and Social Issues – Changing land values, land uses, agricultural markets, and human perceptions of natural resource management present challenges for rural landowners and land managers. Rangelands are aesthetically, economically, and ecologically valuable resources that are utilized in a variety of ways.