Determining the ideal frequency and duration of conservation grazing in coastal uplands
What we offer
The habitat restoration and management of coastal uplands is difficult due to the initial investment of resources, continued maintenance, specialized
experience, equipment, and training required. Some common habitat management techniques include applications of prescribed fire, herbicide, mulching, and other mechanical treatments—each with varying levels of cost-effectiveness, intrusiveness, and strategy.
Another practice that has been highly successful is conservation grazing. For example, pyric herbivory, the coupling of prescribed fire and accompanying grazing pressure, has been shown to create heterogeneity and diversity in vegetation communities and reduce occurrence of invasive species in grassland communities.
While the potential benefits of incorporating livestock grazing into habitat management are evident, these practices require substantial knowledge of animal husbandry, ecological health, and logistical considerations. Grazing duration and intensity, livestock type, and timing of grazing activity during the year can drastically affect the success of a grazing strategy.
The goal of this Study
Given the lack of research-based information in the northern Gulf of Mexico (GoM), this study aims to determine the ideal frequency and duration of livestock grazing, needed to achieve management goals by measuring density and diversity of understory vegetation. The methods created in this study can be amended and implemented across the GoM to inform grazing plans and bridge the gap between conservation and management tools.
