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Rangeland Monitoring in Western Uplands

 

Part 2: Basic Rangeland Ecology

Why are rangelands important?

Rangelands provide economic, environmental, and recreational resources.

 

Economic resources:

  • Grazing lands for livestock
  • Food and fiber production
  • Provide some wood and mineral products

Environmental resources:

  • Contribute to clean air and water
  • Food and habitat for wildlife
  • Large area where both biomass is increased and atmospheric carbon dioxide is decreased by photosynthesis
  • Habitat for threatened and endangered species

Recreational resources:

  • Setting for recreational activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing
  • Natural beauty and open spaces for all
  • Economically important for recreation
  • Culturally important