Gillis addresses the issue of stocking rate on western public rangelands. Many groups argue that chomping cattle are the scourge of western ranges and that grazing has been the major force repainting the ecological picture of the west. These groups reason that damage caused by cattle to the riparian corridors and upland regions, and the effects of that damage on plants and wildlife, is reason enough to completely bar cattle from public ranges. Many ranchers view any prohibitions on grazing as an attack on the western way of life and a violation of what some have claimed is a right. Stuck between the two extremes are the US Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service range conservationists who must manage grazing under the multiple-scale concept. Also in the middle are moderate environmental groups like the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Sierra Club. Both groups want to see grazing on public land curtailed and improved management of those lands. They are lobbying vigorously for a proposed increase in grazing fees. Many range scientists and biologists also tread the middle ground, saying that cattle do not have to be completely removed from public lands and that management and range conditions have improved since the passing of the Taylor Grazing Act in 1934. Ranchers, who in the past could run any number of livestock anywhere at any time on public land, are now limited as to number, area, and season of use. The question about grazing cows may never produce satisfactory answers for all the experts involved. The data supporting each side's arguments could be washed away by the tide of public opinion. Many conservationists say long-standing ranching traditions will be forced to bend to society's wishes for an improved environment.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.