Riparian areas: Perceptions in management
-
-
Authors: W. Elmore, and R. L. Beschta
Date: 1987
Journal: Rangelands
Volume: 9
Number: 6
Pages: 260-265
Summary of Methods: This scientific opinion paper focuses on importance and challenges to developing a riparian management plan for all users and the opportunities that land managers and livestock producers have to avoid the standard confrontational politics.
Article Summary / Main Points: Riparian areas have recently become the focus of many people with very diverse backgrounds. If confrontation politics continue, grazing riparian areas on public lands may be eliminated, and managers may lose the option of managing riparian systems for multiple use. The timing is perfect for ranchers and other land managers who operate on private and public lands to initiate management strategies to allow streams and riparian systems approach their potential. The keys to keep in mind when developing a management plan is to remember that healthy riparian areas impact many things including wildlife habitat, water quality, regulate water levels and others. Though focusing on restoring the unique attributes of the riparian areas must not forget the need to manage upland areas properly, as uplands profoundly influence the ultimate character of the downslope riparian areas.
Vegetation Types: Riparian and Wetlands
MLRA Ecoregions: Not Applicable
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Grazing
Article Review Type: Peer Reviewed
Article Type: Scientific Opinion
Keywords: riparian zone, management, grazing practices, water cycle, erosion, riparian recovery, grazing fees, streams
Annotation: This opinion paper is a good reminder of the importance of riparian areas and the challenges surrounding their management.
-
Direct link not available.
-