Monitoring grazing use: Strategies for leveraging technology and adapting to variability
Vincent Jansen, Alexander C.E. Traynor, Jason W. Karl, Nika Lepak, James Sprinkle
Abstract
Collection, interpretation, and application of use-based monitoring data across large landscapes is challenging given the inherent variability in growing conditions and field-based estimates. We present several approaches on leveraging geospatial data and technology to cope with this variability including weather and climate data, satellite remote-sensing data and associated tools, as well as livestock GPS collars. Field-based estimates also can be improved with more careful consideration of field methods and improved observer training and calibration. Planning and co-implementing of use-based and long-term landscape monitoring can inform causes of declining or improving rangeland health and better inform adaptive management.