Rangelands

Rangeland is land that supports vegetation consumed by livestock or wildlife, that is managed as a natural ecosystem. B.C.'s private and Crown rangelands span the province and encompass ecosystems including alpine, subalpine, community pastures, forestlands (logged or not), grasslands, parklands, shrub lands, riparian areas (wetlands and rivers).

Rangelands are facing increased pressures from a variety of sources. Proper management of these unique landscapes and the sensitive and sometimes rare ecosystems they're home to will ensure that rangelands continue to support recreationists, ranchers and First Nations' interests.

Sustainable livestock operations depend on healthy plant communities. Rangeland ecology studies relationships between plants, animals and their environment to achieve desired management objectives like maintaining or improving current plant communities, sustaining livestock production and providing wildlife habitat.

Safe practices while on rangeland helps protect people, wildlife, sensitive ecosystems, livestock and domestic animals. Take care, especially in areas where active logging and hauling are taking place and where there are known predators.