range management

Rangeland refers to extensive areas covered in native grasses or shrubs that are grazed by herbivores, either wild or domestic. These areas, which include prairies, steppes, savannas, and tundras, cover about 40-50% of Earth's land surface and are vital for biodiversity and pastoral communities.1

Rangelands differ from pastures because they feature native vegetation and are managed by controlling grazing animals, rather than through agricultural practices like seeding or fertilization. Fire is a significant factor in rangeland ecology, often promoting grass growth by suppressing trees and shrubs.1

A major threat to rangelands is overgrazing, which reduces forage production, exposes soil to erosion, and can lead to desertification. Invasive species also pose a serious challenge, outcompeting native plants and harming grazing animals. Effective rangeland management focuses on sustainable use, balancing resource needs with conservation efforts, and often involves regulating grazing, controlling invasive species, and sometimes using prescribed burns.12