Sustainable use of lands: grazing animals

1 of 2 Plains Bison / Alan Wilson / License

Grazing animals sync their foraging cycles to match plant growth cycles.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Modify >
	Adapt/optimize >
	Adapt behaviors

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Improving ranching methods by studying how native grazers use the land, including timing of grazing and reproduction.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Dave Pratt, the president of Ranch Management Consultants, believes that U.S. ranchers can boost profits and sustainability in one fell swoop--by taking direction from nature. Pratt suggests using cattle as 'four-legged combines,' allowing them to harvest their own feed. Livestock could additionally be used to control weeds and naturally fertilize the soil. Pratt recommends choosing animals that fit the environment, and matching reproductive cycles to forage cycles. He advises ranchers to fence livestock away from riparian or sensitive areas, and use timed-grazing to avoid overgrazing. He points out that improved health of range resources means improved health of livestock--hence increased profit and sustainability." (Courtesy of the Biomimicry Guild)

About the inspiring organism

Bison
Bison

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Improving ranching methods by studying how native grazers use the land, including timing of grazing and reproduction.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Agriculture

Experts

Ranch Management Consultants, Inc.
Dave Pratt

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