Challenging the Concept of Fencing Out Streams

A popular approach to promote stream health is to fence livestock out of the stream to prevent overuse of riparian areas. Colt Hamilton suggests that removing livestock from these areas promotes tree growth, and, when trees replace low-growing plants on a streams banks, there can be unforeseen consequences. Colt shows that with good grazing management, a little earthwork, and the right native plants, cut banks can not only be repaired, but further damage can also be prevented.