Application of herbivore optimization theory to rangelands of the western United States
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Authors: E. L. Painter, and A. J. Belsky
Date: 1993
Journal: Ecological Applications
Volume: 3
Number: 1
Pages: 2-9
Summary of Methods: Ecological research can be misinterpreted by the popular press and misapplied in land management. One example of this concerns the controversial concepts of overcompensation by grazed plants and herbivore optimization of plant productivity. Painter and Belsky have looked at the applications of studies suggesting that being grazed increases the productivity of grasses and grassland communities. They have found the evidence for overcompensation in these studies to be scanty; however, it continues to be used as a justification for intensive grazing of American rangelands. The authors stress conclude that although we understand that there are important distinctions between scientific and popular writing styles, and that it is impossible to prevent misinterpretation or misuse by non-professionals, it is important for ecologists doing basic and applied research to be attentive to the social contexts of their science and to communicate their ideas and results clearly.
Article Summary / Main Points: None
Vegetation Types:
MLRA Ecoregions:
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Wildlife
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Scientific Synthesis
Keywords: application of research, compensatory growth, herbivore optimization, holistic resource management, livestock grazing, management of public land, misinterpreting research results, overgrazing, range management, semi-arid western rangelands, shaping public
Annotation: This review examines studies done all over the world. This summary only covers information pertaining to North America.
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