A 10-year study led by federal and academic researchers appears to dispel the long-held notion that cattle grazing and the resulting lower grass height negatively affect the success of greater sage grouse nests.
The study, which included researchers at the U.S. Geological Survey, University of Idaho and Forest Service, analyzed more than 1,200 sage grouse nesting sites in Idaho. It found that while grazing does reduce grass height that helps conceal grouse chicks from predators, the success rate of nests “is no greater in pastures that were rested for 4-8 years than those currently or recently grazed.”
Thus, the study found “no indication that removing cattle from pastures affected nesting success.” Nor did it find “compelling evidence” that the density of nesting hens increased in pastures where grazing was stopped.
“Based on results of this research, livestock grazing, when properly managed, does not appear to negatively impact sage grouse nest survival or brood success,” it said. “This study provides critical insights for land managers balancing livestock production with sage grouse conservation, supporting adaptive grazing strategies that maintain both economic and ecological objectives.”
