Viewpoint: Applying riparian buffers to Great Plains rangelands

Abstract

Better management of riparian areas has been promoted by public agencies for almost 2 decades. Recently, however, efforts have been intensified because serious conservation concerns remain. To achieve mandated conservation goals for water quality and wildlife will require widespread acceptance and application of recommended riparian practices. Success of riparian programs in the Great Plains will require recognition of differences between the interests of public agencies and those of private landowners and the development of an approach to riparian management that can accommodate both.