Grazing animals may be a component of rangeland ecosystems, and appropriate grazing management can meet environmental objectives. Pollution prevention techniques as an integral part of grazing management can prevent or minimize environmental impacts. Also see checklist on Ecosystem Preservation and Protection. Protection of Sensitive Areas . Sensitive areas, including streambeds, wetlands, estuaries, ponds, lakeshores, and any other riparian zones, are of particular concern.
Areas where endangered species are found are also of special concern.
Minimizing erosion from rangelands above the riparian zone is important in its potential for impact on those sensitive areas. Livestock tend to walk along fences, thereby causing paths to become bare channels that lead to erosion, especially if paths channel to streambeds. Grazing Management System . Grazing management systems can incorporate pollution prevention and ensure proper grazing use. Proper grazing use will protect against soil erosion, sedimentation, and contamination of riparian resources, as well as maintain or improve the quality of rangeland vegetation.