GRAZING & AGRICULTURE
Even before oil was discovered on the PUF Lands, ranchers, hunters and farmers used the lands. Ensuring the Lands continue to support these activities for future generations requires careful range and wildlife management. That includes monitoring livestock stocking rates and proactively managing grazing to maintain good range conditions and water availability. Efforts also include managing the wildlife population. UL performs annual aerial surveys to determine the density and general condition of the wildlife species and to develop harvest recommendations. To protect the grasslands for current and future use, University Lands approves and inspects the installation and maintenance infrastructure, such as fencing and water distribution, across the range sites. Rangeland and grazing assessments conducted by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture support informed decision-making for the strategic placement of grazing infrastructure, which, in turn, facilitates the implementation of rotational grazing practices and conservation efforts. An example of commitment to rangeland conservation is demonstrated by UL’s participation in a three-year study with BCarbon. This research is focused on evaluating the natural absorption of carbon dioxide by rangeland vegetation and the subsequent accumulations of carbon in the soil, which increase the soil’s water and mineral storage ability. Another measure of stewardship is demonstrated by the UL’s daily work with operators to clean up abandoned well pads, unused roads, pipelines, power lines, tank batteries and the caliche pads. Once all equipment is removed, the locations are tilled and re- seeded with a custom grass mixture suitable for the specific county location. With a little rain and time, these efforts enable the surface to be restored to native conditions and improve the grazing and wildlife habitat.
“Focusing on wildlife management and grazing is a big part of our land stewardship responsibilities. This offers the potential to increase revenue but what’s more impactful are the sustainability benefits we will see 10 years down the road.”
Jeff White, Director of Surface Operations
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