Etienne M.J. Soulodre, Saskatchewan Watershed Authority, #420-2365 Albert Street, Regina, SK S4P 4K1, Canada
In the Moose Mountain forest of Saskatchewan, Canada cattle graze primarily on the riparian areas surrounding lentic wetlands. Cattle have historically grazed most of this 40,000 hectare forest since European settlement (circa 1880). The impacts of cattle grazing on these riparian areas was studied by collecting vegetation and physical data on over 500 grazed and ungrazed wetlands. Cattle grazing significantly reduced shrubs and increased pugging and hummocking. Degree of impact appears to be related to stocking rate relative to carrying capacity. A collaborative range planning process with grazers has led to some possible management solutions to reduce cattle impact on riparian areas in the forest.