Sustainable use of lands: grazing animals
Grazing animals sync their foraging cycles to match plant growth cycles.
"Dave Pratt, the president of Ranch Management Consultants, believes that U.S. ranchers can boost profits and sustainability in one fell swoop--by taking direction from nature. Pratt suggests using cattle as 'four-legged combines,' allowing them to harvest their own feed. Livestock could additionally be used to control weeds and naturally fertilize the soil. Pratt recommends choosing animals that fit the environment, and matching reproductive cycles to forage cycles. He advises ranchers to fence livestock away from riparian or sensitive areas, and use timed-grazing to avoid overgrazing. He points out that improved health of range resources means improved health of livestock--hence increased profit and sustainability." (Courtesy of the Biomimicry Guild)