Changes in grassland management that reverse the process of declining productivity can potentially lead to increased soil C. Therefore, rehabilitation of areas degraded by overgrazing can potentially sequester atmospheric C. Conant and Paustian modeled the potential for carbon sequestration in grasslands around the world, based on existing studies of soil fractions from heavily- and moderately-grazed locations. In general, more productive rangelands, such as those in the southeast, are better able to sequester carbon. Grazing regimes to increase productivity will increase the carbon content of soils. However, the dense root structure of blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) appears to produce more soil carbon than less preferred species in Western rangelands; implying that heavier grazing can lead to greater carbon sequestration in some environments. Most (93%) C sequestration potential occurred in areas with mean annual precipitation less than 1800 mm. Universal rehabilitation of overgrazed grasslands can sequester approximately 45 Tg C yr-1, most of which can be achieved by the cessation of overgrazing, and implementation of moderate grazing intensity. Institutional level investments by governments may be required to sequester additional C.
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.