Rangeland and Grazing
The USDA Forest Service manages rangelands and grazing on the Dakota Prairie Grasslands through land and resource management planning, adaptive management strategies, and site-specific allotment management plans. It focuses on achieving desired vegetation and habitat conditions while allowing livestock grazing.
The Natural Resources page displays the Land & Resource Management Plan for Dakota Prairie Grasslands Northern Region. Additionally, the Monitoring Program details the processes to accomplish these goals. An overview of projects to accomplish these grassland goals is available on the Projects page. Additionally, refer to our Animals and Plants page for an exploration of the flora and fauna throughout the prairie grassland ecosystems.
A herd of grazing sheep on the Grand River National Grassland.
(USDA Forest Service photo by Kyle Dalzell. )Grazing
The USDA Forest Service manages the Dakota Prairie Grasslands (DPG) grazing program and aims to integrate livestock grazing with grassland conservation goals.
Balancing Multiple Interests
The grazing program operates under the DPG Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP), which seeks to balance the needs of grazing with other interests like recreation and wildlife habitat preservation.
Adaptive Management
The program uses an adaptive management strategy, including strategies and site-specific allotment management plans, to guide grazing practices. This involves monitoring the health and condition of grassland ecosystems and adjusting management as needed.
Cattle grazing on the Sheyenne National Grassland.
(USDA Forest Service)Grazing Permits and Practices
Grazing permits allow for the use of domestic cattle, goats, and sheep on the grasslands, and the Forest Service works with permit holders to ensure responsible grazing practices. This includes adhering to guidelines on stocking rates, managing livestock, and maintaining infrastructure like fencing.
Ecological Benefits
Grazing, when managed appropriately, can be beneficial to grassland ecosystems. Grazing animals stimulate plant growth, influence nutrient cycling, and can help to create open areas for seed germination.
Goats graze the Sheyenne National Grassland.
(USDA Forest Service photo by Scott C. Marvin.)Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments
The DPG Grazing Program includes a monitoring component (e.g., using the Grassland Effectiveness Monitoring protocol to assess the impact of grazing on grassland health and suitability as wildlife habitat.
Multiple Uses in the Grasslands
- Public lands like the Dakota Prairie Grasslands allow for multiple uses, including grazing and recreation.
- While on the grasslands, it's crucial to respect the grazing operations and avoid disturbing livestock, and leave gates as found.
Grassland Grazing Fences Become Virtually Invisible
A few grazing ranchers now manage their grazing livestock are using virtual fencing technology.