Learning Tour - Benefits of Managed Grazing
« Back	What are the Benefits? | Rocklin Open Space | Nutrient Cycle | Reducing Wildfires | Invasive Plant Eradication | Endangered & Protected Species	Start Over »

Contrary to popular belief, many protected or endangered species can actually benefit from well managed grazing.

• Grazing reduces invasive plant species (whether native or exotic) which deplete available soil minerals and water supplies, and allows desired plant species to re-establish themselves.
• Grazing to remove invasive plant growth near vernal pools allows the wildlife within the pools to complete their life cycles before these seasonal pools evaporate.
• The first principle in managed grazing is to adjust grazing and rest periods to keep desired plants in a rapid growth phase, thereby allowing the vegetation to recover and regenerate before it's browsed again.
• Grazing reduces potential wildfire hazard, which can destroy plant and wildlife habitat. Burn area run-off into streams and creeks can pollute the water, impacting fish spawning and other marine habitat.
• Grazing can be timed so that it doesn't interfere with nesting/breeding seasons of sensitive species.