Rotational Cattle Grazing to Restore Degraded Chihuahuan Desert Grasslands and Promote Watershed Health

The Dixon Water Foundation utilizes rotational grazing regimes to rehabilitate grasslands at Mimms Ranch in the Chihuahuan Desert, which was previously degraded by overgrazing. Rotational grazing mimics historical bison movements, allowing pastures long periods of rest and recovery after short disturbances. This promotes soil health and reduces runoff and erosion. Forbs and ground cover were able to establish during rest periods in rotationally grazed pastures. The Foundation partners with wildlife researchers from universities and state agencies in this project. The ranch also serves as a demonstration site for sustainable land management, communicated through community events, workshops, and an interpretive trail.