Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management: A Report Prepared by the Committee on Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management

The National Academy of Sciences Committee on Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management examined the scientific, political, economic, legal, and social issues arising from the BLM's stewardship role in a two-year study. This book contains over eighty professional papers presented at workshops designed to assess forage allocation, inventory of rangeland resources, impact of grazing intensity and specialized grazing systems, manipulative range improvements, application of socioeconomic techniques to range management decision-making, and political and legal aspects of range management.

Format: Hardback
Length: 2044 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In a comprehensive two-year study, the esteemed National Academy of Sciences Committee on Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management delved into the intricate web of scientific, political, economic, legal, and social challenges inherent in the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) stewardship responsibilities. This comprehensive book, presenting the findings and recommendations of the NAS committee, encompasses a wealth of over eighty professional papers presented at meticulously crafted workshops aimed at assessing forage allocation, inventorying rangeland resources, examining the impact of grazing intensity and specialized grazing systems on rangeland use and value, exploring manipulative range improvements, applying socioeconomic techniques to range management decision-making, and delving into the political and legal intricacies of range management.

The study conducted by the NAS committee was a groundbreaking endeavor, shedding light on the complex dynamics that shape rangeland management. It encompassed a wide range of topics, including scientific principles, policy considerations, economic implications, legal frameworks, and social considerations. By examining these multifaceted issues, the committee sought to develop strategies that would ensure the sustainable and responsible use of rangelands for the benefit of present and future generations.

The book itself is a testament to the depth and expertise of the committee members. Each paper presented at the workshops is a meticulously researched and thoughtfully written contribution to the field of rangeland management. The topics covered range from the allocation of forage resources to the inventory of rangeland resources, from the impact of grazing intensity and specialized grazing systems to the application of socioeconomic techniques to range management decision-making. The authors of these papers represent a diverse array of professionals, including scientists, policymakers, economists, lawyers, and social scientists, who bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the table.

One of the key findings of the study was the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in rangeland management. The committee recognized that no single discipline can address the complex challenges facing rangelands on its own. Instead, a holistic approach that incorporates multiple disciplines is necessary to achieve sustainable and effective management. The papers presented in the book showcase the value of collaboration among scientists, policymakers, ranchers, and other stakeholders, as they work together to develop innovative solutions and address the complex issues at hand.

Another important aspect of the study was the recognition of the role of socioeconomic techniques in range management decision-making. The committee recognized that rangelands are not just natural resources but also valuable economic assets. By incorporating socioeconomic factors into range management decisions, the committee aimed to ensure that the benefits of rangeland use are distributed fairly and that the negative impacts on local communities and ecosystems are minimized. The papers presented in the book explore the use of various socioeconomic techniques, such as cost-benefit analysis, market valuation, and social impact assessment, to evaluate the economic and social impacts of rangeland management practices.

The political and legal aspects of range management were also examined in depth by the committee. The committee recognized that rangelands are often subject to competing interests and that effective management requires balancing the needs of various stakeholders. The papers presented in the book explore the political and legal frameworks that govern rangeland management, including federal laws, state laws, and local regulations. The authors also discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise from these frameworks, such as the need for collaboration and negotiation among stakeholders, the role of public policy in shaping rangeland management practices, and the importance of protecting rangeland resources from unauthorized use and degradation.

In conclusion, the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management's two-year study was a groundbreaking endeavor that shed light on the complex and multifaceted issues facing rangeland management. The comprehensive book that resulted from this study contains over eighty professional papers presented at workshops designed to assess forage allocation, inventory rangeland resources, examine the impact of grazing intensity and specialized grazing systems, explore manipulative range improvements, apply socioeconomic techniques to range management decision-making, and delve into the political and legal aspects of range management. The findings and recommendations of the committee provide valuable insights and guidance for policymakers, ranchers, scientists, and other stakeholders involved in rangeland management. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, incorporating socioeconomic factors, and addressing the political and legal dimensions of range management, the committee has laid the foundation for sustainable and effective rangeland management practices that will benefit present and future generations.

ISBN-13: 9780367019846