These rangelands are managed to meet the grazing needs of livestock producers, while at the same time facilitating improved land use through their rehabilitation, conservation and management. The pastures vary in size from 2,000 to 45,000 ha, with the average pasture encompassing an area of approximately 10,000 ha. The pasture units have an estimated carrying capacity of 707,000 animal unit months of grazing each season. The number of livestock grazing on each pasture depends on the pasture size and the forage resource. Find out more about the Community Pastures Program .
Most pastures have a full-time manager overseeing their operation.
In the fall, grazing privileges are assigned to eligible farmers for the following spring, with producers with smaller operations being given priority for grazing space. The number of cattle that will be pastured is also decided at that time. An advisory committee elected by patrons review the allocation of grazing privileges on each pasture and suggest changes if necessary. Close to 4,000 producers use the pastures each summer for grazing and breeding their livestock. The major benefit of community pastures is that they allow farmers to supplement their own grazing lands and operate larger herds of livestock.