Fuhlendorf and Engle state that a heterogenetic rangeland is the most desired type of rangeland based on the fact that it has evolved with grazing by American bison. Bison graze patches in a mosaic pattern on the landscape, which enables for high species composition and diversity. A study of controlled burns and bison grazing showed that natural disturbances like grazing and fire give a prairie a natural mosaic structure. In areas that historically evolved with bison grazing, fire and grazing, together, can enhance the health of a rangeland by keeping it in check naturally.
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.