Range Condition 



A clear distinction should be made between range 

 utilization and range condition. Range utilization is the 

 cause; range condition is the effect. Range condition is 

 the result of many years-' grazing and reflects the current 

 capacity of the range to produce forage for livestock. 

 Close utilization over a period of years causes poor range 

 condition and low production capacity. Moderate or light 

 use produces good range condition and high production 

 capacity. Some heavily depleted areas may have to be pro- 

 tected from grazing for a season or more in order to restore 

 or encourage better range conditions. The earmarks of good 

 and poor condition are shown in photographs 11 and 12, 

 Recognizing range condition helps in judging current util- 

 ization. 



11 



