America’s Grazing Lands: A Cornerstone of National Security, Prosperity and Sustainability
America’s vast and diverse grazing lands, stretching across prairies, rangelands, savannas and woodlands, form a vital yet often overlooked pillar of our national strength. Beyond their scenic beauty, these working landscapes are essential for national security, economic prosperity, and the long-term sustainability of both rural communities and the environment. As pressures mount from urban expansion and foreign competition, it has never been more important to recognize and reinforce the role these lands play in securing America’s future.
At the heart of national security is food security. Healthy, well managed grazing lands produce much of America’s beef, lamb, goat and dairy supply (staples of the American diet). By maintaining domestic livestock production, we reduce dependency on foreign nations for critical food supplies, ensuring we’re not held hostage by unstable global markets or adversarial trade relationships. As recent global supply chain disruptions have shown, relying heavily on imports can leave our food systems vulnerable. Grazing lands, by supporting resilient local and regional food systems, act as a frontline defense against these threats.
Grazing lands support the livelihoods of millions of farmers, ranchers and small businesses. The livestock industry alone contributes hundreds of billions of dollars annually to the U.S. economy. Rural economies thrive on the back of cattle sales, feed stores, veterinarians, fencing suppliers, and local processors, which create a chain of prosperity that extends far beyond the pasture.
Keeping this industry healthy and domestic not only retains wealth within our borders but also preserves the cultural heritage and traditions of American farming and ranching communities. These multigenerational stewards of the land manage vast acreages that would otherwise go unused or be vulnerable to development. Their knowledge and practices are irreplaceable assets.
Ecological and Societal Benefits of Grazing Animals
Properly managed grazing animals are not a threat to the environment; they are a solution. When guided by science and stewardship, livestock grazing improves soil health, enhances water infiltration, and maintains biodiversity. Grazing mimics the natural behavior of wild herbivores, helping control invasive species and encouraging native plant growth. Moreover, local wildlife populations utilize grazing lands as well. Without them, we would lose critical habitat for many species.
Grazing lands also act as carbon sinks, capturing and storing atmospheric carbon in the soil. When livestock graze rotationally, they stimulate grass regrowth and increase organic matter in the soil, promoting ecological balance and resilience. From a societal perspective, the benefits are even broader. Grazing animals provide us with high-quality protein, leather, wool, and dairy (products fundamental to our way of life). The open spaces they maintain also offer recreational, educational and spiritual value to millions of Americans who hunt, hike, or simply admire the rural landscape.
As the global population grows and environmental challenges intensify, America’s grazing lands will play an increasingly critical role in feeding, clothing and securing the nation. Investments in research, conservation and landowner support will ensure that these landscapes remain productive and resilient for generations to come. To protect our sovereignty, bolster our economy and sustain our environment, we must champion the stewardship of America’s grazing lands. These working landscapes are not relics of the past they are the foundation of our future.
