Certain management practices can help minimize the losses and maximize the amount of moisture remaining in the root zone to be utilized for plant growth. The benefits from such practices have been achieved at both the research and ranch levels. It should be remembered, however, that moisture expenditure through plant transpiration cannot be considered as a loss. Rather, it is a necessary cost of forage production. Effect of the stocking level on water infiltration into range soils.
Plant materials improve the microclimate at and near the soil surface.
Effect of litter on soil moisture content. This is done by minimizing surface soil organic matter losses and by allowing long rest periods following grazing to restore bulk density. An increase in the bulk density means reduced amount of air spaces. Soil moisture is held primarily in those spaces. Soil structural damage can result from too early grazing when the soil is still wet.