Rangeland Readings Selected readings from "RANGELANDS", A publication of the Society for Range Management.

Herbivory in the Intermountain West An overview of evolutionary history, historic cultural impacts, and lessons from the past.

Grazing on Public Land Approximately 262 million acres of public land in the western United States are grazed by domestic livestock. This report discusses and provides scientific information concerning livestock grazing on public lands in the West.

Environmental Impacts of Livestock on U.S. Grazing Lands takes a critical look at the environmental impacts of grazing systems and provides guidance on land management tools. Key issues of concern include alteration of wildlife habitat and degradation of soil and water quality. The authors find that current problems may stem from land use practices of several decades ago and may require active management practices to restore the land's health. (November 12, 2002)

History and Analysis of Federal Administered LandsSixty-four percent of the land in Idaho is administered by the federal government.  This report answers four focus questions:  Why is 64% of Idaho federal land?  What is the purpose of federal lands?  What does the law say about "ownership" of federal lands?  What "federalism" issues are relevant?  The report analyses 10 alternatives for management of federal lands: two "no change"  alternatives (current plans and interim directions, ecosystem-based management), two "change ownership" alternatives (land sale, ownership transfer to states) and six "change rules for management" alternatives (economic-based reforms, land leasing, Federal Land Management Commission, local advisory council, trust land management, cooperative state/federal management).  A framework for comparing the alternatives is presented.
 

Guidelines for Managing Cattle Grazing in Riparian Areas to Protect Water QualityGrazing management is the key to attaining the benefits riparian areas offer livestock while maintaining water quality standards and fully functioning riparian ecosystems. This report provides management guidelines, based on review of the scientific literature, that will help livestock producers meet the goals of the Clean Water Act while grazing cattle in riparian areas. The report answers 3 focus questions:  What are appropriate management strategies for cattle grazing in riparian areas?  What are best management practices?  How is cattle grazing in riparian areas addressed in Idaho water quality policy?