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The
Difference Between Enclosures and Exclosures
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This picture taken at Walters Ranch shows traditional riparian exclosures. These exclosures are narrow in size and run along creeks. These areas are disigned not to be grazed by cattle and are usually overgrown with vegetation. |
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The problems with total exclosures is that the water flow is slowed by the over population of dead plant material. In this pasture at the Walter's Ranch you can see all the dibure that get's caught in the fence by the water flow. Fences near the stream need to be repair because of increase flow of water and dibure during the winter season. This dibure also litters the creek, making it hard for wildlife to utilize the water.
In this picture taken at the Walters Ranch you can see a different type of fencing that is used in riparian partures. Riparian pastures or enclosures are large in size for more effecient grazing. The fence is on or near the hillside, and is portable for easy movement. These riparian pastures increase the grazing management options for the rancher. The practice of concentrated livestock will further riparian diversity because cattle are only grazed in this tempaie pasture for one day and then moved to a new one. While the cattle are grazing thay are doing more then eating the grass. They are breaking up the top soil to allow new seeds to enter the soil, they are also transporting seeds from one area to another. They are transporting nutrients to new parts of the pasture. Riparian pastures are better than total riparian exclosures and better than full grazing. The riparian pasture creates an environment that is better for cattle, wildlife, and the ecosystem.
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