Conservation, Development, and Use of the World's Rangelands

Abstract

Some 47% of the world's land area is suitable only for grazing by domestic livestock and game animals-either frequently or occasionally. These rangelands support animals which provide most of the world's meat, milk, hides, wool, and other animal products. They have major values for watershed, wildlife habitat, soil and water conservation, fuel, and important by-products. Large areas are in poor condition, primarily because of overgrazing. The American Society of Range Management has an increasingly important role in focusing attention on the world's rangelands and in stimulating effective programs of research, education, and action.