Grassland management refers to the manipulation of natural vegetation through disturbance in order to achieve some predetermined goals. Grasslands are often managed to improve productivity and to maximize benefits for human use. An understanding of the relationships between environmental forces and the plants and animals that make up grassland ecosystems is key to ensuring the proper balance of rest and disturbance.
Grasslands are home to more than 30% of BC’s species at risk and support more threatened or endangered species than any other habitat in the province. Despite this significance, grasslands represent less than one percent of the provincial landbase and are one of Canada's most endangered ecosystems. Thus, grasslands are critically important for BC’s ecological diversity.
Grasslands are also significant to aboriginal culture in BC. Many grassland plants are valuable for traditional use, and important archaeological sites are located within grassland areas. Grasslands exist within the traditional territory of many First Nations people in British Columbia, and many bands continue to use grasslands for ranching, hunting and other traditional purposes.
In addition grasslands offer many excellent recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike. British Columbia’s grasslands are used extensively for motorized and non-motorized recreational activities for both commercial and non-commercial purposes. The stewardship and conservation of grassland ecosystems will therefore depend heavily on our ability to manage human activities appropriately.
Finally, grasslands play a critical role in BC’s ranching industry. Nearly 90% of provincial Crown grasslands are under grazing license, permit or lease, and much of the privately owned grasslands are also used for grazing. Grasslands serve as a forage base for grazing cattle and sheep as well as providing space and water resources. Healthy grasslands are necessary for a successful and vibrant livestock industry in BC.
Because grasslands have such a wide range of values, appropriate management is crucial. In order to ensure that grasslands can continue to provide ecological, social and economic value to British Columbians, a management strategy that recognizes the diverse uses of the landscape is needed. Please click one of the links below to learn more about grassland management in British Columbia.
Grassland Management ScienceGrassland Management PracticesStewardshipExtension Programs
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