Horsemen Guidebook 15. The best method to graze livestock is free roaming either in public pastures or in selected locations where stock can be contained by drift fences or natural obstacles. However, this method is not practical under many circumstances. Therefore, the most widely-used method of restraint is by alternately tying and turning the horses loose to graze for a specified length of time. The nature of the stock, the location, and the method of holding all have an effect on the degree of trampling and soil disturbance that takes place.
Some horses are more prone to pawing.
The following measures are recommended to reduce environmental damage when using stock in the backcountry. Wet, marshy areas are very susceptible to damage and should be avoided. Tying stock in the immediate camp area is discouraged. The pawing and trampling that may occur creates an overused appearance and dusty conditions in the camp area. Lake shores and stream banks are especially subject to trampling.