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You Can Lead a Horse to Water: Mapping Seasonal Water Resources to Predict Wild Horse Movements on Utah Rangelands

Applied Research

Mark Nelson
Extension Professor
UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY
BEAVER

Abstract

Deserts are defined by low and variable annual precipitation. Water distribution strongly influences animal movements and habitat use in these systems. Some herbivores, such as mule deer and pronghorn, can obtain water from succulent forage, but large grazers, including cattle and horses, need to drink water daily to help digest plant matter. As such, these species are typically found near water sources. In areas lacking perennial water, landowners and land management agencies can develop water sources to provide water for animals. However, temporary surface water that accumulates following snowmelt or rain remains the most widespread water source for wildlife and livestock, allowing these water-dependent species to range farther from developed or perennial sources than they might otherwise. All wild horse herd management areas in Utah overlap BLM grazing allotments. Although horses and cattle have similar dietary habits, both species rely heavily on predictable water sources during dry periods. The concentration of wildlife and livestock in mesic areas during droughts can become problems for farmers and livestock producers. To help address this problem, we aimed to map the annual distribution of temporary surface water across Utah that cattle, horses, and wildlife could use. Herein we analyzed an 18-year record of satellite imagery to create a statewide map of seasonal surface-water availability for agricultural and wildlife management purposes. Utah is one of the driest states in the U.S., so livestock production takes more land than it would in wetter, more productive environments. As a result, forage and water resources can vary substantially from year to year, and when resources are sparse, competition between livestock and wild horses can occur. The maps presented here can be used to predict what time of year and which allotments are most susceptible to incursions from wild horses on Utah rangelands.

 

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: Mark Nelson, David Stoner, Eric Thacker, Linden Greenhalgh
  1. Nelson, M. Extension Professor, Utah State University , Utah, 84713
  2. Stoner, D. Wildlife Specialist , Utah State University, Utah, 84322
  3. Thacker, E. USU Extension Range Specialists, Utah State University, Utah, 84322
  4. Greenhalgh, L. USU Extension Professor , Utah State University, Utah, 84074