Due to the unique effects and management constraints of range use compared to other forest practices however, guidelines to achieve riparian area objectives are presented separately for range use. Riparian areas provide important watering sites for livestock and, in some parts of the province, significantly contribute to livestock forage.
Riparian areas are also especially sensitive to range use practices.
As a result, riparian areas are often the focus of range management planning and should be given special consideration when developing range use plans. Stream, wetland, and lake riparian areas should be managed as part of the larger pasture. Range use plans for a pasture should be designed to meet riparian as well as upland objectives. In many cases, range use schedules and objectives may be determined primarily by riparian objectives. In cases where it is not possible to meet riparian objectives through broader pasture management practices, it may be necessary to restrict cattle use by fencing or other means.