9496 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

II II wild horse management were responsible for improving conditions. By 1984, an Allotment Management Plan was in place based upon a grazing system with utilization limits (including the horse herd), and implementation of range improvement projects. The current grazing system is relatively simple and meets re-growth requirements and the natural movements of livestock. [t is a deferred system but highly reliant on the herding of livestock to prevent overuse. II II Results: Conditions on the allotment have improved dramatically over a ten-year period as a result of aggressive management. The stream channel has narrowed, and willow, cottonwoods, and box elders have reestablished throughout the riparian coarse. Beavers have nourished and are now present even when the creek is dry. Their numbers are being monitored to prevent overpopulation, and their dams now trap sediments which have added to bank stability and aided re- vegetation. As a result of improved rangeland conditions, calf weights have increased an average of 150 pounds and open-cow and late births went from 10% to 4% and 2-3% respectively. The cooperative efforts of the BaI'nards, ranch manager, Mr. Sid Goodloe, and the BLM have made East Douglas Creek one of the most dramatic successful restorations. [n recognition of the riparian and upland improvements, the Barnards received the BLM's "Riparian Stewardship Award" in 1990, and the Colorado chapter of the Society of Range Management's "Excellence in Grazing Award" for 1992. II II II II II The Barnards no longer manage livestock on the Cathedral Bluffs allotment. Prior to leaving the ranch, Bill Barnard and the BLM revised the Allotment Management Plan to increase the detail of the livestock and riparian management sections. Both of these sections have additional guidance and use limits. The cur- rent grazing permittee, Blake Hutchens, is managing livestock using the Allotment Management Plan. Improvements in rangeland and riparian health are continuing. II II II II II II -~--- ----~- Driving Guide . Colorado Watershed 51 II Cathedral Bluffs before restoration Cathedral Bluffs after restoration