In the process, decimation of the previous large herds of animals, particularly the bison, took place along with their dependent predators and scavengers. The pressure to expand the cultivated area gave rise to drainage of wetlands thereby further destroying habitat for wildlife. Over time a grain monoculture developed in much of the prairie area, a farming practice encouraged by prevailing government policies. It therefore becomes apparent that land use on the prairies has evolved over time. Consequently, land use cannot be regarded as being held constant as other forces continue to be exerted on the land base.
Land has multiple uses as was demonstrated during the development phase.
Prime uses include animal and plant habitat and agriculture. As the population expands there is greater demand for land for recreational purposes and for housing in urban centres. With the primary use of the land being for grain production, the incipient decline in the grain economy gives rise to the issue of whether the present pattern of land use is appropriate. The relative contribution of agriculture to the economy generally has also declined, further compounding the land use issue. On the other hand, demand for land for purposes other than agriculture is increasing.