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Part 7: When and How Often to Monitor
Levels of Monitoring
Time is a limitation for all ranchers. You already have too
much to do and monitoring is just one more task added to your
workload. This is a major reason many ranchers give for not initiating
and maintaining a monitoring program. Hopefully by completing
this learning module you will be convinced that not only can
monitoring increase the productivity of your range, but it can
actually save you time in the long run.
Monitoring is generally completed at the end of the growing
season. Depending on the level of monitoring you choose to undertake,
you will establish a photographic record (see Photography)
and evaluate the following attributes:
Minimal Monitoring:
Recommended Monitoring: As above plus
- Frequency
- Cover
- Density (shrubs only)
Comprehensive Monitoring: As above plus
Regardless of monitoring level and the number of sites you designate,
you will want to be sure to monitor each site at least once a year.
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