Based on data that suggests light grazing enhances forage production, while heavy grazing decreases forage production, Dyer et al created a model to determine what grazing level would optimize plant production. Equations to estimate nutrient cycling, net growth, and seed production were combined to make the model. The model produced a curve similar to the herbivore optimization curve that was previously hypothesized. The model has several assumptions that need to be met for the resulting grazing optimization to occur, however, the authors believe that the model may be used as a general guide to understanding nutrient flow and plant production in grazed systems.
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.