The construction of livestock ponds has expanded the range of many wildlife species by providing water where none existed before. The scattered watering ponds allow more cattle grazing throughout the grassland and also benefiting wildlife habitat. Private farmlands within the National Grassland boundary add diversity to the prairie habitat. The presence of prairie dog colonies creates habitat favorable for such wildlife as burrowing owls, which use the abandoned burrows. The almost extinct black footed ferret used to prey on the prairie dogs and use their burrows, as well.
Rattlesnakes are the only poisonous snakes found in the grassland.
They are seldom seen during the heat of the day. National Grasslands are rich in mineral, oil and gas resources. They also provide diverse recreational uses, such as mountain bicycling, hiking, hunting, fishing, photographing, birding and just sightseeing. Fossils, prehistoric and historic resources, as well as many cultural sites are being discovered. The national grasslands are being managed to protect these important legacy resources.