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Rangelands West
 
 

What is Rangeland?

When the term "Rangeland" first came into use in the 1800's, it was used to describe the extensive, unforested lands dominating the western half of the United States continent. Today, "Rangeland" has a much broader meaning. Lands labeled as "rangeland" include:

  • Prairies
  • Plains
  • Savanna
  • Steppe
  • Grassland
  • Shrubland
  • Desert
  • Forests (under the trees)
  • Tundra
  • Wetlands
  • Alpine Communities

Native Vegetation in these areas is normally grasses, broad-leaved plants (forbs), and shrubs.