Mushroom shaped shrubs may indicate overgrazing. Overgrazing reduces plant vigour and may lead to the invasion of unwanted species. Fortunately, riparian areas are very resilient and generally respond more quickly to changes in management than uplands. However, in some cases it may take years, even decades, to recover the economic costs of severely damaged streambank. Different grazing strategies can have dramatic effects on streambank vegetation Ranchers are finding that livestock perform better when pastures and water are carefully managed.
Livestock drink more water and consume more forage when provided good quality water.
Toxins and water-borne pests and diseases are reduced. Many ranchers have already changed their management approach. Improving riparian area is considered to be a financially sound investment. The recommended approach is not to eliminate grazing on the highly productive and profitable riparian area, but to monitor and adjust grazing so that all of the riparian pasture areas are kept in healthy condition. This means leaving sufficient carry-over and allowing for woody species regeneration.