Range and pasture lands are diverse types of land where the primary vegetation produced is herbaceous plants and shrubs.
These lands provide forage for beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, horses and other types of domestic livestock. Also many species of wildlife, ranging from big game such as elk to nesting song birds such as meadowlarks, depend on these lands for food and cover.
Primary economic outputs include livestock production, but wildlife values are also a major economic consideration for these lands, especially range lands. Environmental values of these lands are extensive and provide many essential ecosystem services, such as clean water, wildlife and fish habitat, and recreation opportunities. Scenic, cultural, and historic values of these lands provide not only economic benefits, but also quality of life values cherished by many.
Conservation Technical Assistance with Inventory, Planning, and Monitoring
- National Range and Pasture Handbook
- Major Land Resource Area Map
- Web Soil Survey
- Monitoring Manual for Grassland, Shrubland, and Savanna Ecosystems
- North Dakota Noxious Weed Lists
- Ecological Site Information System (ESIS)
- National Plants Database
Drought
- Drought Calculator
- National Drought Monitor
- North Dakota State University
- News Release - Management Considerations For Drought Effected Livestock Producers
Livestock
Programs
- Plant Materials Program
- Environmental Quality Incentives Program
- Grassland Reserve Program
- Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program
- Wetland Reserve Program
Rangeland and Pastureland Wildlife
Contact Information:
Jonathan Fettig
State Rangeland Management Specialist
C: 701-455-0722
jonathan.fettig@usda.gov