BEHAVE Workshop

Introduction

The Ruby Valley Conservation District and Ruby Watershed Council, with support from the Montana Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative, hosted a one day workshop in Twin Bridges with Dr. Fred Provenza of Utah State University. The workshop focused on principles of animal behavior and how behavior can affect food and habitat selection.

Objectives

The objective of the workshop was to reach out to local producers to provide education and information to help improve livestock operations, production, and resource management.

Study Area

The workshop was held at the Madison County Fairgrounds in Twin Bridges, Mont., but producers from throughout southwest Montana were personally invited to attend. We also promoted the workshop with local postings and in regional newspapers.

Methods

Over 65 participants attended the all day workshop which covered behavioral principles, processes and the implications for agricultural production involving pastures and rangelands. Through lively presentation, Fred discussed many topics including: methods to enhance and maintain biodiversity through grazing; grazing with regard to ecosystem restoration, invasive species, riparian areas and enhancing wildlife values. He effectively links animal behavior with consequences, forage palatability, nutrient needs, plant compounds, grazing preferences, utilization, and learned behavior, and how all of these factors can affect habitat selection, production and ultimately the landscape. Fred’s PowerPoint presentation can be downloaded from the Ruby Valley Conservation District’s website for further information.

Results

All of the evaluations from the workshop, both written and verbal were extremely positive. Most of the participants indicated that they learned a tremendous amount and have a much better understanding of “why an animal eats what it eats and when.” The workshop “provides the big picture relationship of the livestock social/nutritional balance.” All of the participants felt that Fred is very knowledgeable, yet did a great job of tying the economics, behavior, plant physiology, ecology, and animal health in a very usable manner. “Fred’s presentation is lively, challenging, and well-balanced. He tells a good story!” “Tangible ideas and examples, Fred gets the mind working and the light bulbs come on. Great presenter/class materials, etc.”

Contact Information

Ann Schwend, Ruby Watershed Coordinator
PO Box 295
Sheridan, MT 59749
406-842-5741, ext 106

Last Modified: 07/11/2007