This study attempts to determine an economic optimum stocking rate that is sustainable over the long run. Results so far indicate that grazing at a higher stocking rate than is normally recommended may result in a higher average annual return but it is accompanied by higher volatility. Profits are greater when prices are favorable and losses are greater when prices are not favorable. In addition rangeland deterioration is occurring at the higher stocking rates and the higher average annual returns may not be sustainable. Plant species which appear to be favored by moderate grazing (increaser_decreasers) and species which appear to be favored by heavy grazing (increasers) have been identified. This last group includes some species not found on ungrazed range (invaders).(source description)
Articles, citations, reports, websites, and multimedia resources focused on rangeland ecology, management, restoration, and other issues on American rangelands.