Rangelands support native vegetation or introduced species for the grazing of livestock.
Livestock use of rangelands for grazing can have significant impacts on the environment. Grazing causes water quality and quantity impacts, destruction or alteration of wildlife habitats, erosion, sedimentation, and soil compaction. 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.