Livestock grazing is one of the most widespread agricultural land uses in California, encompassing about 32 million acres of rangeland, pasture, forested lands, and perennial croplands that support cattle, sheep, goats, and other livestock. This chapter explores climate-smart grazing and rangeland management strategies that sustain ranching livelihoods, enhance ecosystem health, and contribute to California’s climate and methane reduction goals.
Strategy 11.1 Promote multi-benefit rangeland management.
- 11.1.1 Facilitate grazing on public lands for ecological health and fuel load reduction.
- 11.1.2 Increase adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices on rangeland.
Strategy 11.2 Conserve and restore rangelands to protect natural ecosystems.
- 11.2.1 Uplift the role of rangelands in conserving and improving biodiversity, especially in conjunction with California's 30 x 30 Initiative.
- 11.2.2 Improve riparian areas in rangelands for improved water filtration, flood protection, and habitat connectivity.
Strategy 11.3 Reduce enteric methane from grazing livestock.
- 11.3.1 Research and promote novel enteric methane mitigating practices for grazing livestock.