Topic: Grassland

Following a fire on one of his grazing units, Doug Lindemood used cattle to restore the grassland rather than letting it return to brush. By using portable electric fencing to mimic the high-density pressure of herds fleeing predators, he successfully managed the regrowth of clovers and grasses, demonstrating the restorative power of controlled grazing.

Savannahs are distinct ecosystems characterized by a continuous cover of perennial grasses with scattered trees, preventing the shade-out that occurs in closed-canopy forests. Grass roots are essential for holding soil in place and preventing erosion during heavy rainfall. The appearance of oak and grass pollen in the geological record 8,000 years ago indicates that humans were actively preventing forest succession to maintain these productive landscapes.