Do Now:

• Forestry multiple choice quiz. 13 questions 10 minutes• Remember: -underline the stem - look for umbrella terms - eliminate absolute statements

Good Luck!

Aim: How Should We Manage and Sustain Grasslands?

What is a Grassland?

• A large open area of country covered with grass.• Two types: Rangelands and Pastures

Rangelands

• Unfenced grasslands in temperate and tropical climates that provide forage for animals

Pastures

• Managed grasslands and fenced meadows used for grazing livestock

Do you understand?

• What is the difference between a rangeland and a pasture?

Ecological Services of Grasslands• Soil formation• Erosion control• Nutrient cycling• Storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide in biomass• Maintenance of diversity

Some Rangelands are Overgrazed • Overgrazing of rangelands• Reduces grass cover• Leads to erosion of soil by water and wind• Soil becomes compacted • Enhances invasion of plant species that cattle won’t eat

Natural Capital Degradation: Overgrazed and Lightly Grazed Rangeland

Fig. 10-20, p. 234

Pause…Think…Write…

• Explain how overgrazing is an example of the tragedy of the commons. Support your answer with an example.

Read A Loud

• The Malpai Borderlands - Arizona-New Mexico border - Management success story

Natural Capital Restoration: San Pedro River in Arizona

Fig. 10-21, p. 235

1980’s 1990’s

Pause…Think…Discuss

• With your table come up with three ways to reduce overgrazing and use rangelands more sustainably.

• Use evidence from the case studies to support your answer.

We Can Manage Rangelands More Sustainably

• Rotational grazing• Replant barren areas• Apply fertilizer• Reduce soil erosion• Suppress growth of invasive species• Herbicides• Mechanical removal• Controlled burning• Controlled short-term trampling

Case Study: Grazing and Urban Development the American West

• American southwest population surge since 1980

• Land trust groups: conservation easements

• Reduce the harmful environmental impact of herds• Rotate cattle away from riparian areas• Use less fertilizers and pesticides• Operate ranch more economically and sustainably

Summary:

• If we fail to protect a much larger percentage of the world’s remaining grasslands, describe three harmful effects that this is likely to have on any children and grandchildren you might have.