Good range operators know the production resource with which they are working. Maps are used to make a permanent record of the condition of the resource. They are more accurate than memory.

Range grazed by livestock may change so gradually that you do not notice the change. These changes may affect you income form the range before you really know what has happened. The changes may mean financial profit or loss. They also may mean loss of valuable soil and water.

Management practices are based on the map’s indication of range condition and forage use in the different areas of each pasture. The map also shows you changes needed for best production from the range. For instance, a pasture in poor condition in one part and in excellent condition in another part might indicate the need of 1) cross-fencing; 2) additional watering places nearer the good forage; 3) a change in the salting places to attract stock to areas of excellent forage; or 4) control of poisonous or injurious plant areas.

Improvement and changes can be shown on transparent mapping material laid over the original detailed map of the range. These are called ‘overlays’. Overlays can be used on aerial photos, too. On the overlay, show the fences to be moved or the new ones to be built. Also, designate areas for new water developments and new salt grounds.

Problem areas should be marked on the overlay. Ground squirrel towns, abandoned farmland to be seeded, poisonous plants or shrubs to be controlled can be indicated. Show the year during which each practice is to be carried out, either on the overlay or in the written plan, or both.

If you are just starting you range map, you will save time by obtaining plant book sheets from a bookstore or county courthouse. Ordinary, heavy paper will do well if it is tough and light colored. It will need grid lines to represent quarter sections, sections and townships.

Aerial photographs may help you to locate important features on you maps. You can use tracing paper to transfer information to you maps from photos, if the aerial photos are on the same scale as you maps. If you are fortunate enough to have aerial photos for use in your range project, overlays can be used on the photos.

For further information on range management, see your extension agent, who can assist or tell you where you can get additional technical help.