Stillings et al. used a bioeconomic model, developed over a 60 year planning period, to evaluate the economic feasibility of grazing management improvements and guidelines being encouraged by Federal agencies. A study with three grazing management treatments of no grazing, off-stream water and salt, and no off-stream water and salt was conducted and input into the model. The model used a utilization of 35% for the maximum allowable use; the model accounted for standard Federal grazing reduction penalties if the utilization went over 35%. The off-stream water and salt resulted in a positive net return for ranches because of the better distribution of grazing. The better distribution allowed for cattle to graze longer before an area in the pasture met the 35% utilization standard.
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.