BC GRASSLANDS SOILS-The Heartbeat of the Grasslands - Grasslands Conservation Council of BC
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“The voice of grasslands in British Columbia”
SPRING | SUMMER 2021
BC GRASSLANDS MAGAZINE OF THE GRASSLANDS CONSERVATION COUNCIL OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
SOILS—The Heartbeat of the Grasslands
Big Bar PHOTO: Kelly Funk
BC GRASSLANDS
The Grasslands Conservation
Council of British Columbia (GCC)
became a society in August 1999 and a
registered charity on December 21, 2001.
We are dedicated to promoting education,
conservation and stewardship of British MAGAZINE OF THE GRASSLANDS CONSERVATION COUNCIL OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
Columbia’s grasslands in collaboration
with our partners, a diverse group of
organizations and individuals that includes
government, range management specialists,
ranchers, agrologists, ecologists, First
Nations, land trusts, conservation groups,
recreationists and grassland enthusiasts.
GCC MISSION:
• to foster greater understanding and
appreciation for the ecological, social,
economic and cultural importance
of grasslands throughout BC;
• promote stewardship and sustainable
management practices that will ensure
long-term health of BC’s grasslands; and
• promote the conservation of
representative grassland ecosystems,
species at risk and their habitats.
SOILS—The Heartbeat of the Grasslands
GCC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Message from the Chair: BC Grasslands and its The Coyote - Top Dog of the Grasslands
EXECUTIVE Soils: An Important Symbiotic Relationship By Rick Howie ...................................................... 12
CHAIR - Bob Haywood-Farmer By Bob Haywood-Farmer ........................................ 4
VICE CHAIR - Dr. Lauchlan Fraser TJ Walkem Interview
TREASURER - David Borth Message from the Program Manager: Spread By Holly Jackson ................................................... 14
SECRETARY - Mandy Ross the Conservation Message!
PROGRAM MANAGER - Brad Arner By Brad Arner ....................................................... 5 Lifelong Learning and its Place in Range
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Management
Greg Anderson Message from the Editor: Thompson Nicola By Rachel Whitehouse, P. Ag., CNRD, FLNRORD .......... 16
Ian Barnett Plant Committee (TNIPC) Report
Eleanor Bassett By Agnes Jackson .................................................. 6 Trans Mountain Completing Work in the
Toni Boot Lac Du Bois Grasslands Protected Area
Tom Dickinson Nature Conservancy of Canada Expands Critical By Trans Mountain ................................................ 18
Agnes Jackson Grasslands Conservation Area in the South
Dennis Lloyd Okanagan Dormant Season Grazing: A Rancher’s Perspective
Brian Thomas By Don Gayton ..................................................... 8 By Bob Haywood-Farmer ....................................... 20
READ MORE Lost Horizons: A Random Walk Through Annual Report 2020: Grasslands Conservation
bcgrasslands.org/about-us/leadership/ Soil Science Council of BC
By Don Gayton ..................................................... 10 By Bob Haywood-Farmer, Chair ............................... 24
COVER PHOTO
Big Bar Region, Kelly Funk Photography
Editors: Agnes Jackson; Toni Boot
Design: Julianne Leekie, Fairwinds Design
We wish to gratefully acknowledge the financial support
of the Province of British Columbia.
Message from the Chair
BC Grasslands and its Soils: An Important Symbiotic Relationship
Bob Haywood-Farmer
A nother year has passed
by and we all look
forward to the day when
program coordinator, keeping the flow of activities
going. We wish him well in his retirement and a
special thank you for his dedication and support. It
be a recent development, the landscape having
recovered from the last ice age, a mere
10,000 years ago.
we can meet face to face. is a sad situation that our new directors have never The number one consideration in managing
That said, we are finding had the chance to meet each other or the rest of grasslands is to protect the soil. The soils have taken
out, like many low budget the board, face to face. A lot is lost when there 10,000 years to get to their present state. With poor
organizations, that a lot can is no chance for one-on-one discussions during management, 10,000 years of development can be
be accomplished efficiently meeting breaks. Many ideas owe their origin and lost in a heartbeat. Managing grasslands in a way
via digital platforms. The development to chitchat sessions during meetings. that preserves some vegetative cover at all times and
younger generations adapt well to the social media keeps the perennial grasses with their deep intricate
world while the older “experienced” set tend to root systems in place is a key consideration.
get left in the dust. I am, unfortunately, one of the Disturbances that result in removal of the surface
“tend to get left in the dust,” but I am working on “The theme of this year’s magazine is layer of soil or the mixing of the soil profile needs to
it! The fact that I live out of range for cell service soils. There is an important symbiotic be avoided wherever possible. Getting the surface
and high-speed internet doesn’t help. relationship between grasslands and layer back in place and re-vegetating disturbed sites
We have had four new directors join us this is imperative to minimize the impact. Keeping road
the soils of the grasslands. A healthy
year—Ian Barnett; Tom Dickinson from Kamloops; ways and utility corridors to a minimum, or at least
Toni Boot and Brian Thomas from the South grassland depends on the underlying designing them to minimize soil disturbance and
Okanagan. Our team of directors has continued the health of the soils. At the same time, removal of vegetative cover, is important. Should
work of the GCC in spite of being physically isolated the grassland contributes to the soil disturbance occur, getting perennial grasses
by the pandemic. I am forever grateful for their development of the soil.” re-established to avoid erosion should be the first
continued support and work. Heather Richardson step toward recovery and restoring the grassland
and Mandy Ross have done exceptional service community. Invasive species are always a threat on
producing our e-newsletter. Hallie McDonald has disturbed sites.
kept our books in order every month. An Important Symbiotic Relationship These are issues that present themselves to
Agnes Jackson is our one retiring director. She will The symbiotic relationship between grasslands the GCC every day. It is up to us as a Board to
be sorely missed. Her effort toward the magazine and the soils of the grasslands ensures its per- be advocates for the protection and best
and calendar each year has been tremendous. Agnes petuity. One should think of the soil as a living management of the precious grasslands and
never lets us forget about the unrelenting invasives community that develops in a mineral base with their rich associated soils, the ultimate carbon
we must continue to battle. a texture reflective of its geological origin. The storage facility. Thank you, Board Members, for
Brad Arner has been great to work with as BC grasslands and their underlying soils tend to your dedication to the task.
4 BC GRASSLANDS
Message from the Program Manager
Spread the Conservation Message!
Brad Arner
T his past year many people tried to battle the
COVID-19 blues by getting out in nature. That
can be a double-edged sword. More people will,
supporters can play is share our social media pages and submit
pictures of grasslands.
As we close the 2020/21 fiscal year, GCC is in good financial shape and
hopefully, gain an appreciation for our grasslands we look toward to building our programs. As I step down as Program
but it also results in additional pressures on the land. Manager in March, 2021, its looks to be an exciting year for growth. My 2½
BC grasslands are a favourite location for many year tenure with GCC has been rewarding due, in most part, to the people
people to recreate. They provide easy access and involved in keeping GCC relevant. Our Board of Directors is a dedicated
beautiful vistas. We are fortunate to have such a group that willingly volunteer their time and their collective wisdom to guide
diversity of landscapes in BC. We can hope with us through the challenges of running a non-governmental organization. Our
increased activity in our grasslands will come a greater appreciation, and members and volunteers give their time because they believe in the cause
that’s where GCC can play a role. and it is inspiring to see such commitment.
People tend to support conservation of things they value and GCC’s GCC is well positioned to establish itself as the leader in grassland
programs whether its research, stewardship or education, all have an conservation. The work we, and others in the conservation community,
outreach component. This past year we increased our social media do needs to be communicated. We need to conserve our grasslands as an
efforts, thanks to our volunteers, especially Heather Richardson. Heather integral part of the environment and establish in everyone’s mind that the
has been working hard and is very astute at both the technical and value of grasslands in a natural functioning condition is more important
outreach uses of social media. An important role our members and than any other use.
Sagebrush, Lac Du Bois Protected Area
PHOTO: Don Gayton
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 5
Thompson Nicola Plant
Committee (TNIPC) Report
Agnes Jackson
Blueweed
PHOTO: Julianne Leekie
A three-year pilot
project, “A
Strategy For Crown
Success indicators include a marked increase in
ground management of invasive plants; support
provided to rural property landowners; jobs created
• Continued planning early in the year to
ensure a coordinated and efficient management
approach led by FLNRORD, with participation
Land Invasive Plant to carry out, coordinate and treat invasive plants; from MOTI, BC Parks, First Nations and a
Management in the and a strengthened collaboration among agencies, number of stakeholders and private landowners,
Thompson Nicola” groups and organizations involved in invasive plant including members of BC Cattlemen.
was implemented in management.
2017 and delivered With all that being said, we found gaps and
throughout the FLNRORD Successes holes to fill. We need more ministries to actively
Thompson Nicola • Improved engagement with the Thompson support the initiative. Crown land, including
Regional District Nicola stakeholders and local First Nations BC Parks and Protected Areas, encompass a
(TNRD). This pilot, affected by, and interested in invasive plants. A significant portion of land within our regional
valued at $2.2 million, number of bands are now sharing a species list boundaries. Within the Thompson-Cariboo
focused on supporting of traditional plants that require protecting. regions, over 1.2 million people are accessing
BC’s ranching • More active involvement and interest from BC Parks annually (BC Parks 2017/2018 Statistics
industry and rural communities affected by five-plus First Nations bands taking part in Report) for recreational purposes, such as
the spread of invasive plants. The initiative annual planning and biocontrol treatment. camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing
was led by the Province including Ministry of • Successful completion of contracts by local and boating. These activities are all key vectors of
Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and ranchers and First Nations, plus ongoing invasive plant spread within, to, and from, these
Rural Development (FLNRORD) and Ministry discussions with interested First Nations on high use areas. Invasive plants can impact the
of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI), partnership opportunities. areas the Ministry of Environment is mandated
delivered in partnership with various groups • Research focusing on management of invasive to protect and results in loss of biodiversity,
including the BC Cattleman’s Association and the plant species in grasslands continued in lost revenue, increased management costs, and
TNRD. This pilot program received an additional Nicola, led by Thompson Rivers University with changes in our natural ecosystems and functions.
$620,000 from the Province in 2020, extending the collaboration from Ministries, First Nations and At the time of writing the Ministry has a person
project to four years. stakeholder groups. to the table, but has not added funding.
As a Grassland’s representative on the 11-member • Continued projects for grassland restoration The Ministry of Agriculture has declined a
committee and Vice Chair of TNIPC for the past four including treatments, seeding and land position on the committee, stating they cannot
years, I feel the pilot project has been successful. management issues. appoint staff; they would need to volunteer.
66 BC GRASSLANDS
BC GRASSLANDS
Cypress Spurge Spotted Knapweed
PHOTO: Sarah Gregg PHOTO: Julianne Leekie
We were in touch with our regional agrologist, Spotted Knapweed exceeds available resources, know from year to year if there will funding.
William Shaw, who declined a formal position so strategic prioritization will always be critical. The pilot project demonstrates that when
because the Ministry of Agriculture does not have • Multiple stakeholders and competing priorities agencies collaborate—good things happen.
control over lands in the region. He did offer to continues to be a tremendous challenge. The agencies have very capable people who
share information and technical expertise. Further to that, more groups opposed to adapt quickly. As a committee member, I received
There is a shortage of contractors in the region herbicide use emerge each year, forcing a more very favourable feedback from landowners and
that can take on large scale operational work, integrated approach, but not always the most interested parties anytime there was a weed field
and quite often one contractor is spread across effective control means can be used. day. Last but not least, bringing Invasive Plant
multiple projects for multiple agencies. This makes • Logging practices and invasive plant Management to the Regional level demonstrated
it difficult to ensure work is being carried out management commitments pre-harvest, during a very workable area to manage Invasive plants.
timely and efficiently. and post-harvest, including road construction,
There are issues with survey data collected by still need more awareness and changes possibly Wishlist for GCC
ground crews where survey data for a single site through Forest Stewardship Plans. 1. A large source of funding for eradication and
were entered into IAPP multiple times, with each • Unmanaged motor vehicle access, creation of containment of noxious weeds that is not tied
entry having different information. Further, data new, unauthorized trails into remote areas, to political strings.
collection at sites is variable between surveyors and travelling existing corridors are major 2. Heli spraying of herbicides on Crown land. If
and quite often subjective. It is recommended that contributors to the establishment and spread not on all Crown land, then at least on
sub-contractors receive standardized training on of invasive plants. Grazing Leases.
field surveys, inventory and data collection in full, 3. Development of an effective biocontrol for
prior to starting operational work. Private landowners continue to outspend the Spotted Knapweed and Blueweed.
Crown on a per hectare basis. It’s my opinion
More Challenges that at some time there must be a point where I’ll be stepping down this year, but I can say
• Legally required pesticide-free zones that SUBSTANCE ALIGNS WITH RHETORIC and a that being part of the TNIPC has been a very
exist around water bodies and wells create consistent source of funds are found to finance rewarding experience and I’ve had the pleasure
challenges for complete linear or area-based weed control in this province. of working with some very talented people such
control, however biological control agents are The lack of consistent long term funding as Coleen Hougen, Mike Dedels, and Jamie Viera.
present within most of these areas to support contributes to the spread of weeds like no other Regional District Directors also played a big
long term control. cause. We lack contractors because no one wants role in making the Pilot a success: Ken Gillis, Bill
• The total area of established species like to invest the time or training when we don’t Kershaw and Hugh Graham... thank you!
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 7
Nature Conservancy of
Canada Expands Critical
Grasslands Conservation
Area in South Okanagan
By Don Gayton, M.Sc, P.Ag (ret.)
Southern Interior Program Director, Nature Conservancy of Canada
Sage and Sparrow Conservation Area
PHOTO: NCC
I n December 2020, as a difficult year was drawing to a close, the Nature
Conservancy of Canada (NCC) celebrated some good news for nature. The
conservation organization had been successful in their bid to add another
“Thanks to the
generous support of our “The work we are doing in this
donors and partners, the imperilled landscape is critical for the
126 hectares (311 acres) to the Sage and Sparrow Conservation Area in Nature Conservancy of plants, animals and ecosystems here,
the South Okanagan. Canada is able to move
not only in the face of climate change,
Located fewer than 30 minutes west of Osoyoos along the Canada/U.S.A. efficiently and effectively
border, Sage and Sparrow now encompasses over 1,500 hectares with willing landowners
but ongoing development pressure.”
(3,750 acres) of rare grasslands and interior Douglas-fir forest at the to conserve their lands. —Barb Pryce, NCC Southern Interior Program
confluence of the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys. This area is within We have made a tangible DIrector
the traditional territories of the syilx (Okanagan) Peoples. difference here,” said
The Sage and Sparrow Conservation Area is nestled within the provincial Barb Pryce, NCC’s
South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area. The new addition extends the Southern Interior Program Director.
conservation area to the north, filling in a gap in a north-south conservation This unique landscape represents the northernmost tip of the arid
corridor in one of the country’s rarest and most threatened ecosystems. shrub-steppe ecosystem that extends through central Washington State.
8 BC GRASSLANDS
Sage and Sparrow Conservation Area Sage and Sparrow Conservation Area
PHOTO: NCC PHOTO: NCC
Sage and Sparrow provides essential habitat for 62 confirmed at-risk and mice make use of the pockets of rugged terrain scattered throughout
plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else in Canada. the property. And the variety of terrain, micro-climates and structural
Several species are listed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act, including diversity add immensely to the property’s conservation value.
western tiger salamander, southern mountain population (endangered), The Sage and Sparrow Conservation Area is open to the public for
western rattlesnake (threatened), Great Basin gophersnake (threatened), walk-in access only.
Great Basin spadefoot (threatened) and Lewis’s woodpecker (threatened). This project has been made possible by the contributions of many
The new conservation lands span a diversity of habitats. In addition to funders, including: the Government of Canada through the Natural
sagebrush steppe and bunchgrass-dominated grasslands, the land includes Heritage Conservation Program; part of Canada’s Nature Fund; Regional
some of the oldest stands of interior Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine forest. District of Okanagan-Similkameen; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service;
Two large wetlands provide precious moisture in this arid landscape. Sitka Foundation; Okanagan Similkameen Parks Society; Oliver
Woodlands of trembling aspen offer nesting habitat for birds as well as Osoyoos Naturalists Club; South Okanagan Naturalists’ Club; and
cooling shade during temperature extremes for all wildlife. Snakes, gophers many generous donors.
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 9
Lost Horizons: A Random Walk
Through Soil Science
By Don Gayton, M.Sc, P.Ag (ret.)
Consulting Ecologist & Writer
M uch of soil science revolves around layers,
or horizons—those subtle changes in
colour, texture and chemistry as one moves
Soil science is immensely complex, and tightly
interwoven with geology, chemistry, hydrology,
botany and microbiology. Soil classification,
downward through the profile. My experience together with soil mapping, are by their very
with soils is also layered, beginning with nature, approximations. Just as soil horizons
grassland tours in southern Saskatchewan in blend into one another, soil types do as well.
the 1970s. These tours were typically a mix of Even though their language baffles me, I
range managers, botanists and soil experts. have great respect for the enormity of the
At each tour stop, the botanists would quickly soil scientist’s chosen profession. We can find
agree on the dominant plant species. After brief substantial soil differences within the confines of
discussions the range managers would come our own backyards: pity the pedologists charged
to agreement on stubble height, season and with mapping the soils of an entire valley, let
selectivity. Meanwhile, the soils people would be alone a whole province.
quiet while one of their number (usually a young As a self-identified scientific packrat, my first
grad student) would be digging a pit. step in any new investigation is to root through
Once the pit was dug, a fascinating discussion my collection of books and papers. Here is yet
would ensue, as the soils experts discussed—and another soil horizon, a literary one. My first layer
argued—about horizons. Fascinatingly obscure was Daniel Hillel’s 1991 book, Out of the Earth: Gilpin soil pit
PHOTO: Don Gayton
terms like Eutric, Sombric, Slickensides and Civilization and the Life of the Soil. Remarkably
Fragipans would be tossed around, while we passionate, Hillel goes back to the original
non-soils people stood by in quiet puzzlement. Hebrew meanings of certain words. “Homo,” contemporary damages we have done to soils
One of the pedologists (upscale term for a soils (Homo sapiens) is derived from the word around the globe.
person) would produce a pocketknife, and make “humus.” The biblical “Adam” is derived from The next book I pulled off the shelf was the
a definitive stab in the soil pit, pronouncing that “adama,” meaning soil, and “Eve” is “hava,” 1978 volume, The Soil Landscapes of British
spot to be the precise interface between, say, meaning life. Together, Hillel says, Adam and Eve Columbia, which introduces the Canadian system
the C and the Ck horizon. More discussion would signify “soil and life.” A pretty good analogy, of soil classification, and then goes on to describe
ensue, and the pocketknife might get moved if you ask me. A world-renowned soil scientist, typical soils by biogeoclimatic subzone. This book
upward or downward. Hillel goes on to describe the historic and reminded me that most of my life has played out
10 BC GRASSLANDSBig Bar
PHOTO: Kelly Funk
within the Chernozemic Order—the grassland developed under millennia of perennial grass bent down and opened the plastic bin. I was
soils of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and growth. Take a typical Canadian perennial hoping it was lunch, but instead he slowly
Eastern Washington. grass like bluebunch wheatgrass, or one of the drew out an entire, full-blown rough fescue
The next item off the bookshelf was the Munsell fescues: two-thirds of that plant’s total biomass specimen, roots and all. It was a watershed
Soil Color Chart, a fascinating little pocketbook consists of tiny roots, which reach deeply down moment. Literally.
with dozens of slightly different gray, yellow, through soil horizons. Every year roughly a third The next layer in my literature search is
brown and black colours, each with a pea-sized of the roots die and are replaced by new ones. grassland soil carbon sequestration, a topic being
hole adjacent to it. Holding a sample of your The dead roots quickly break down into organic actively investigated by Dr. Lauch Fraser and
chosen soil underneath the Chart, you can scan matter. Multiply that year by a thousand— his colleagues at Thompson Rivers University.
through, pick out, and name the exact color and then by ten thousand—and you have an They have evidence to show that well-managed
match. Soil color is indeed a major component of incredibly rich and productive matrix of soil native perennial grasslands not only trap and
soil classification. The Color Chart then steered and organic matter—the humus after which store (sequester) atmospheric carbon dioxide, but
me towards Hans Jenny (1899-1992), a pioneer of we humans are named. Soil organic matter they can also keep that carbon stored for long
soil science, who spent the twilight of his career holds moisture, promotes aeration, provides for periods of time. Time to rethink those BC native
studying the colours of soil depicted in famous nutrient exchange and is habitat for beneficial grasslands that we so casually take for granted.
landscape paintings. Then, of course, comes the microbes and insects. This very richness has been But back to digging soil pits, where pedological
next logical follow-on: the artistic discipline of the curse of most grassland Chernozemic soils rubber hits the road. As an enthusiastic groupie,
painting with soils (I kid you not, look it up). around the world; their inherent productivity has I listen intently but understand little as the soils
Moving forward, I now enter the literary been their undoing, via cultivation agriculture. people debate whether a particular horizon is
realms of soil organic matter and soil One of my favourite grassland memories was DBC and DGC, or whether the Ah layer is 7.5 or
microbiology. These two are intimately a southern Alberta tour led by my comrade 10 centimeters in depth. Meanwhile the lowly
connected: the more organic matter a soil and fellow range manager, Barry Adams. As we grad student continues to dig, but suddenly a
contains, the more microbial activity it sustains. walked, I noticed Barry was carrying a bulky loud clank is heard, as his shovel hits a large rock.
Not many decades ago, soil was viewed as and rather mysterious plastic bin with him. At a Then all the soils folks nod and chuckle in silent
inert, lifeless material: Now we see it as more certain point we stopped, in the midst of a agreement on that horizon.
alive than dead. lovely stand of plains rough fescue. Barry spoke For my part I am very proud, because this is
Organic matter again places us squarely within for a few minutes, describing some of the the one and only horizon I know.
the wonderful world of Chernozems, soils that valuable traits of this perennial grass. Then he It is called the BFR layer.
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 11The Coyote - Top Dog of the Grasslands
By Rick Howie
T he coyote is a common canid in the grasslands of North America while
its adaptability has allowed it to occupy a wide variety of other habitats
including forests, alpine tundra, aspen parklands and urban landscapes. Its
him up to two months prior to her coming into heat and copulation taking
place. Females are monogamous and in heat for only 4-5 days during the
period. Gestation is 60-63 days with litter sizes generally about 5-6 pups.
range stretches from Alaska to Central America and east in Canada to the Astoundingly, litters of up to 19 have been recorded in North America
maritime provinces, with expansion north and east from its western origins despite females having only 8 teats. Competition to survive in those
largely occurring from the early 1800s to the 1950s. large litters must be
Taxonomists classify coyotes as Canis latrans, putting them in the same significant. Pups are
genus as the closely-related wolf, Canis lupus. The Latin name translates as born in dens which are
“barking dog”. Throughout its range, 19 subspecies are recognized with four often at the end of “If taken from the den at a very early
occurring in Canada. The BC populations are comprised of two subspecies, burrows that can extend age and reared by hand, the coyote is as
Canis latrans incolatus north of 520 latitude and Canis latrans lestes south 2-3 metres underground. tame as a dog and makes an intelligent
of 520, extending west to Vancouver but excluding Vancouver Island, Their puppy coats last and interesting companion. It is inclined
Haida Gwaii and other coastal islands. Cross-breeding with domestic for about 4 weeks after to be less reliable than a dog, however.”
dogs has been documented but is rare. Hybridization with wolves occurs which the adult pelage
to varying degrees —particularly in eastern North America—despite grows in. Weaning —Victor Cahalane, 1947
demonstrated hostility between wolves and coyotes. Genetic studies suggest occurs from 5-8 weeks
that both of these species split from a common ancestor between 6000 and with young leaving the
117,000 years ago but this conflicts with other evidence suggesting coyotes den for excursions with their parents after about two months. Life span in
have been around much longer. Both species show varying degrees of each the wild varies but probably ranges from 3-10 years. The basic social unit
other’s ancestry in their DNA, indicating a complex relationship. of a coyote pack is the family, however temporary “non-family” individuals
Male coyotes are larger than females but in general the average weight may come together for communal hunting or companion purposes.
for the species is 13kg, with unusually large animals having reached 30kg. Coyote diets are quite catholic although primarily carnivorous. Prey items
There is but one breeding season in the year during late winter and the include rodents, hares, birds, grasshoppers, snakes, young deer, moose,
stirring sounds of the howling from January to March remind us of this sheep, fish and carrion. They will eat almost anything alive that they can
amorous period. Scent-marking and howling by the female can result in catch and subdue. Grass, berries and other plants supplement the meat
a handful of males following her until she selects a mate and bonds with diet at various times of the year. Often, the bulk of their prey includes
12 BC GRASSLANDSCoyote hunting in the grasslands Coyote going after prey.
PHOTO: Glenn Dreger PHOTO: Glenn Dreger
animals that can be serious pests of agricultural operations such that coyotes increasing their survival rate. Also, lowering the numbers of coyotes in
function as beneficial natural control agents and an important part of one area can result in increased immigration from areas with higher
natural ecosystems. Unfortunately, if coyotes develop a taste for domestic populations, thus offsetting the initial reduction in numbers.
livestock, poultry, human food, garbage and pets, they come into conflict Despite the enormous efforts to reduce coyote numbers when they are
with humans which results in a high degree of persecution throughout in conflict with humans, this adaptable animal has increased its range
their range. across North America and has become a significant and permanent part of
Livestock losses in the USA and Canada have been widely documented many ecosystems. From its widespread presence in the lore of Indigenous
for many years, with a variety of control programs being enacted across peoples through its iconic symbolism of the American west, the coyote has
the continent. Up to 500,000 animals are killed per year in the USA alone. somewhat of a Jekyll and Hyde relationships with us. But its remarkable
Targeted predator control in BC is governed under the Wildlife Act, with range expansion in the face of serious human opposition attests to its clever
landowners being allowed to kill coyotes on their property if they present ability to exploit both natural and anthropogenic habitats. We will no doubt
a danger to their domestic animals. There are regulations that specify the forever remain in a challenging and intimate relationship with the “top
conditions under which such actions are permissible along with associated dog” of the grasslands.
reporting actions. Coyotes are also subject to legal hunting seasons and
trapping for fur in BC.
Despite all efforts to kill coyotes for a variety of reasons using a variety of
methods over the past 100 years, populations have expanded and remain REFERENCES
strong in most areas. The reasons for this are complex and may relate in part
Banfield, A.W.F. 1974. The Mammals of Canada. National Museums of Canada. University of Toronto
to coyote reproductive physiology and certainly to social structure. Although Press. 438 pp.
studies vary, it appears that as coyote density decreases in an area, their
Cahalane, V.H. 1947. Mammals of North America. The MacMillan Co. New York. 682 pp.
reproductive rates increase. Adults do most of the breeding in a population
and the loss of adults allows juveniles to replace them in the breeding cycle. McTaggart Cowan, I. & C.J. Guiguet. 1965. The Mammals of British Columbia. 3rd ed. Handbook #11.
BC Prov. Museum. A. Sutton printer. 414 pp.
If one or more members of an adult pair are killed, socially-bonded packs
break up and subordinate members disperse, find mates and breed. This Project Coyote. Available: http://www.projectcoyote.org/wcontent/uploads/2020/08/PC_SAB_
results in more coyotes breeding at a younger age. As well, a reduction Coyote-Facts_FINAL_2020_08.pdf; Wikipedia accessed Feb. 2021.
in the numbers of predators can make more prey available to pups, thus Available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coyote#Subspecies
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 13TJ Walkem
Interview
By Holly Jackson
The Grasslands Conservation Council has Tell Us About Your Operation
identified the crucial role of people in 60 Ranch is a family owned cow calf operation
protecting and enhancing grasslands. Cattle running 265 head. We also do grass finished
ranchers like TJ Walkem are critical to beef sales. This isn’t your typical ranch where
maintaining those landscapes through everything is all at the same place. We are spread
careful management. out. Currently we run three ranges that surround
Spences Bridge and all together, hay 200 acres.
We take pride in the animals we raise, selecting
Tell Us About Yourself bulls for specific traits and growing our own
I am a fourth generation First Nations rancher mother cows. We keep quality control by growing
from Spences Bridge. I spent most of my time our own hay as well. It’s labour intensive, but
either ranching or in school, and a lot of the worth it seeing the results at the end of the day. Walkem Family
PHOTO:Sara Walkem
time doing both. My education background My dad and I do the majority of the work so
is a degree in natural resources science and I it’s very intense. I always say it takes a special
hold my professional Agrologist status. I also breed of person to make it in this business. After the passing of my grandfather, I came
went through the applied sustainable ranching back to help my father run the ranch while I
program when it first started, and now I take What Led You to Cattle Ranching? was in university. Since then we have managed
on students and teach them what I know. I I am born and raised into the business. As a kid it together. We have always run on the premise
spent a few years sitting as a board member for I spent a lot of time with my grandpa feeding of what we do today isn’t for us, it’s for the next
the GCC. I tend to be drawn to the outdoors, during the winter and irrigating in the summer. generation. Having kids to pass it down to is very
especially the grasslands. The open landscape, And then chasing cows during the summer with important to me and I hope that one day they
diverse plant community and the smell of my parents. will want to carry on the legacy.
sage after a rain is a great way to catch a few Before us kids were born my grandpa and dad
moments for myself. were into purebred herefords and then slowly How Do Grasslands Play a Role?
I’m very fortunate to have a supportive family transitioned over to a commercial herd as the We are located in the Thompson valley where
and two boys to show this way of life to as years went on. Before my dad, it was my great grasslands sweep the lower levels of the
they grow up. When I’m not out on the ranch, I grandpa and his kids that cleared a lot of the mountains and river banks. They are the first step
usually spend my time with them. lands to grow crops and raise horses and cows. on to range and the last step off. They provide
14 BC GRASSLANDS60 Ranch
PHOTOS BY: Sarah & TJ Walkem
critical spring pasture for us while the higher and mistakes can happen or unforeseen things What are Some Challenges You’re
elevations grow. We tend to mainly use them in happen, so we try to stick to our grazing Facing? Opportunities?
the spring rather then the fall. schedules and stocking rates. If something My challenges right now are not being able to
unplanned happens then adjusting management find reliable help. We are a small remote town,
What is Your Approach to Grazing plans are necessary to try and limit the impact have a hard time competing with larger places
we have on the land as much as possible.
and Land Management? for same salary and benefits. Also being too
Our approach to grazing and land management spread out is a big challenge for us. The costs are
is based on level of use. Looking at how much Do you Manage Invasive Plants? higher and also time is a big loss.
the cows are taking and making sure they aren’t Yes, invasive weeds are a concern for us. I think As for opportunities, if you put your mind to
negatively impacting the plant community. they should be a concern for everyone. With it then you can make almost anything happen.
Keeping three key factors in mind when the changing climate I think there is a greater But I am very passionate about grass fed beef
approaching a pasture or plant community and risk of invasive plants taking hold if they are not and free range poultry/duck. I feel that a huge
how the cows will impact it is critical for long term managed for. We also raise a product that can limitation in the ranching industry is facilities to
longevity and health of the plant community. be a direct contributor to the spread of invasive process. We spend all this effort managing our
Timing, duration, and frequency of grazing helps plants therefore it’s out obligation to help cattle on grasslands and then sending the animals
keep the impacts of grazing at the forefront eliminate the spread of them. to be grain finished when we could keep our
while planning and managing pastures. We have I try to work with my range Agrologists to production in our own local communities while
a lot of areas on our ranges that there is wildlife help identify infestations. I will hand pull providing a health conscious beef product. I think
habitat within the grasslands and therefore I like single plants or small groupings to help stop we have opportunities to help facilitate this.
to limit the impacts that I may have. By adjusting the spread.
the time of year I graze to minimize the impacts What are Your Future Plans?
to habitat needs such as wildlife mating. Keeping Do You Incorporate Wildlife My future plans would be to become more
the duration to a minimum while balancing Management into Your Ranch? efficient in the operation, help create
healthy removal of forage. This in turn helps keep Yes. By practicing good grazing management opportunities or solutions to our protein
the frequency of defoliation down balancing in turn you are managing for wildlife as well. market, help encourage young people to
wildlife sensitive areas and the health of the plant Whether it’s deer, sheep, snakes, or birds; with a become ranchers, and spend more time
community at the same time. strong management plan or technique you keep on the grasslands.
We understand that this isn’t a perfect world wildlife priorities upfront as well.
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 15Lifelong Learning and its Place in Range Management
By Rachel Whitehouse
Range Agrologist (P.Ag), CNRD
Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (FLNRORD)
A lmost 40 years ago, Schaffer (1985) noted that “ecologists will probably
never be able to write down the complete governing equations for the
order in chaos that is any natural system”. This continues to prove true as
This was attributed to the
reduction in the seed input via
grazing and the removal of the
the natural systems around us continue to change despite our best efforts. litter bed and associated seeds
The British Columbia Institute of Agrology mandates a minimum number of via burning.
professional development hours we must complete to maintain our status While this is only one study,
as professional agrologists. It is a welcomed opportunity that we can access such promising results should
scientific literature, webinars, networking events, and conferences so we can be tested in our current
immerse ourselves in the fascinating research being done on rangelands across systems. Land managers
the world and apply that knowledge to problems we come across in BC. across North America Photopoint (2020) at
targeted grazing location.
Getting research into the hands of land managers has been a well- report struggling to combat PHOTO: Rachel Whitehouse
established challenge. Recently, the University of Idaho and University cheatgrass; during the 2021
of Arizona partnered to create ‘Range Docs,’ an online tool designed Annual Society for Range
to search technical references and other literature. The website states: Management Conference an entire symposium was dedicated to discussing
“Successful management of America’s grazing lands rests in the hands of this insidious invader. Yearly photo point range monitoring in the bluegrass
well-informed land managers. When producers, conservation planners, and pasture has revealed a shocking increase in cheatgrass since 2013, where it
other stakeholders can quickly locate and access relevant information they has grown from less than 1% cover to 30% in 2020 despite reduced cattle
can make better decisions. Science is now searchable”. This tool opens many numbers and a two-year rest-rotation schedule. In order to trial the effects
doors for implementing current research findings into regular management. of targeted grazing and fire, FLNRORD has identified an area of 34 ha to
Following this sentiment, the Cascades Natural Resource District is exploring test the ability of targeted grazing and prescribed fire to reduce cheatgrass
an operational research project on Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) control in the density and continued spread into bluebunch wheatgrass dominated areas.
Lundom range unit outside of Merritt, BC. Based on a study by Diamond, Call
and Devoe (2012), they looked at a two-year combination of spring grazing Proposed Methods
and fall burning to combat cheatgrass. Grazing and fire, when properly FLNRORD is looking to establish permanent transect locations to track
managed, can be an important tool for suppressing annual grass invasions. vegetation changes and seed banks will be sampled using a greenhouse
Their study looked at four treatments (grazing and burning, grazing and germination method to count cheatgrass seed density. The area will be
no burning, burning and no grazing, as well as a control) to determine the grazed in early May for a period of three weeks using cattle attractants
reduction of cheatgrass biomass and seed bank density. Without getting deep and herding to keep animals in the areas of highest cheatgrass density.
into the results, they found that the graze and burn treatment resulted in the We will measure the change in biomass before and after cattle turn out.
highest reduction of cheatgrass community dominance and seed bank density. In October, when conditions are conducive to burning the Ministry hopes
16 BC GRASSLANDSto do a back burn down
the slope to remove
cheatgrass litter cover and
additional seeds.
The targeted grazing
treatment will be
repeated in the following
year and seed bank
and vegetation cover
will be analyzed again.
Targeted grazing location.
It is generally thought in PHOTO: Rachel Whitehouse
cheatgrass management
that if you can control
the cheatgrass seed source for three years, you will see a downward
trend by the fourth year. This project is in its early proposal stage and
we hope to move forward and collaborate with First Nations, other
government branches and Thompson Rivers University students.
We hope this novel approach will remove a significant quantity of
cheatgrass seeds and stop the positive feedback loop of cheatgrass
encroachment in this grassland. As our remaining grassland fragments
continue to degrade, now is not the time to sit back and watch what
happens. Now is the time to seek solutions and implement the vast
amount of research that has already been completed.
REFERENCES
Schaffer, W.M 1985. Order and chaos in ecological systems. Ecology 66:93-106
Range Docs Searchable Science (https://docs.rangelandsgateway.org/)
Joel M. Diamond, Christopher A. Call, and Nora Devoe. Effects of Targeted Grazing and Prescribed Burning on Cows grazing on rangeland
Community and Seed Dynamics of a Downy Brome (Bromus tectorum)– Dominated Landscape. Invasive Plant PHOTO: David Lundgren
Science and Management 2012 5:259-269
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 17Trans Mountain Completing
Work in the Lac du Bois
Grasslands Protected Area
By Trans Mountain
D uring planning for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (the Project),
Trans Mountain identified potential environmental impacts associated
with construction and determined mitigation methods to reduce those
effects. Trans Mountain’s goal is to protect the environment, have as
little impact as possible and, where we do have an impact, ensure we are
returning the land to its original function.
Trans Mountain has an area-specific reclamation plan for the Lac du Bois
Grasslands Protected Area (Protected Area). The plan was prepared to meet
Trans Mountain’s commitments to reclaim all areas disturbed by the Project,
and has been created using best industry practices, in consultation with
BC Parks and consideration of input from a variety of interest groups and
stakeholders.
The primary role of the Lac du Bois Grasslands reclamation plan is to protect
the native grassland communities and dry parkland forests that occur in Trans Mountain Pipe
proximity to the pipeline within the Protected Area. The secondary role is to Lac Du Bois Grasslands
PHOTO: Trans Mountain
maintain the natural diversity and function of ecosystems, while providing
opportunities for low-impact recreation and traditional range-use activities.
grass establishment occurs. In select areas, it may be necessary to install
Right-of-Way Reclamation temporary fencing to protect the newly-seeded areas from livestock
With pipeline construction activities, existing topography in the grazing and from recreational users. Trans Mountain resource specialists
construction footprint will be altered at certain locations along the will work with BC Parks and the grazing lease tenure holders to limit
pipeline route. The construction footprint, which is the pipeline easement grazing access to the revegetated native grassland areas.
and temporary workspace used by the contractor, will be graded, and
contoured with pipeline installation. Backfill activities will ensure surface Topsoil Conservation
conditions post-construction are comparable to the landscapes adjacent Construction footprint preparations require that the total topsoil depth
the construction footprint. Graded materials will be replaced with a stable is salvaged, and that salvaged topsoil from disturbed areas is stored in
contour similar to the pre-construction contour. separate stockpiles or windrows. Soil surveys conducted by Trans Mountain
Temporary access control techniques, acceptable to BC Parks, will be resource specialists have identified recommended topsoil salvage depths
employed to limit foot and vehicle traffic on newly-seeded areas until within the construction footprint. Soil surveys also identified areas where
18 BC GRASSLANDSLac Du Bois Grasslands
PHOTO: Mur ray Foubister
In addition to the gathered native seed, the highest grade of native
seed species available will continue to be obtained by Trans Mountain
or its contractors and Certificates of Analysis will be required for all seed
purchases. A seed lot will not be accepted or used if it contains Prohibited
Noxious or Noxious weeds; seeds from species not known to occur in the
BC Interior; or seeds from species that may impact revegetation success
(e.g., cheatgrass).
Native seed mixes and a short-lived cover crop will be used to inhibit
weed establishment, reduce soil erosion and re-establish species common
to the Protected Area. Seeding will occur as soon as practical after
construction following final clean-up activities – ideally, immediately
following topsoil replacement. If final clean-up does not occur at the
opportune seeding time, a cover crop will be seeded, and the final seed
mix will be applied at the appropriate time.
Lac Du Bois Grasslands
PHOTO: Trans Mountain
Weed Management
Trans Mountain has prepared a Weed Management Plan for the Protected
soils are low in organic matter content. Any use of chemical fertilizer and Area outlining methods and procedures to identify, prevent, contain,
application rates at the time of seeding will be based on the seed mix type control and monitor the introduction or spread of invasive species in the
and soil analysis that was completed for the replaced soils and will include Project area. Objectives include:
a nitrogen, phosphate and sulfur blend.
• identifying invasive species applicable to the Project
Grass Seed • describing invasive species locations
Trans Mountain specialists have collected native seed from locations in • mitigation and control methods
BC’s Interior, from species that naturally occur in native grasslands plant • developing invasive plant treatment prescriptions for Project
communities. Trans Mountain understands that using local native seed to pre-construction, construction and post-construction phases.
reclaim the Project construction footprint in native grasslands will promote
ecosystem health, create aesthetic value for recreationists, provide native Weed species of concern and locations have been identified by
food and nesting sites for wildlife, and limit weed introduction. BC Parks and are included in the Weed Management Plan.
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 19Dormant Season Grazing:
A Rancher’s Perspective
By Bob Haywood-Farmer
Dormant Season Grazing Dormant Season Grazing
PHOTO: Bob Haywood-Farmer PHOTO: Bob Haywood-Farmer
G rasslands provide an important resource
for livestock producers. With good
management, grasslands can provide a cost
growth and a healthy root system during the
growing season.
Bunch grasses tend to have a deep complex
an important role in the cycling of nutrients.
Their activity through trampling, defecating, and
urinating helps to cycle nutrients back to the soil.
effective forage source for livestock without any root system that is in harmony with an even Grazing during the growing season must be
negative impacts to the grasslands. The presence more complex population of soil microorganisms. managed carefully to avoid undue impacts on
and impacts of livestock contribute to greater Hydrocarbons produced by the photosynthetic the perennial bunch grasses, such as bluebunch
biodiversity, and, ultimately, to the cycling of process in the above ground parts of the plant wheatgrass and rough fescue, both key species
nutrients. This leads to the building of rich soils— are transported to the root system, allowing the in BC’s dry interior grasslands. Animals tend to
the thing that grasslands are noted for. The grasses to grow new root tissue and store energy selectively graze these species when the grasses
ultimate benefit of well-managed grasslands is in reserves. Below ground parts of the grasses are actively growing, especially any regrowth
the long term storage of carbon in the soils. mirror the volume of the foliage. When the that occurs after the initial bite. Short duration
The key to sustainable grazing on grasslands top of the plant is grazed, the roots die back to grazing with high stocking rates helps to
is to understand the life cycle of the grassland match the top. That root tissue provides the soil encourage and maintain perennial bunch grasses,
ecosystem and how grazing impacts the various microbes with a source of nutrients and energy when grazed during the growing season.
components of the ecosystem. All green plants which they in turn utilize to grow and multiply. This can be challenging to manage on large
remove carbon from the atmosphere via Decaying root tissue and soil microbes that die diverse landscapes that have poor water
photosynthesis. Photosynthesis uses energy off in a continuous cycle are what builds soil distribution, varied topography or elevation
from the sun, CO2 from the atmosphere, and organic matter and puts carbon into long term differences. These challenges can be mitigated
water and minerals from the soil. Perennial storage in the soil. This is the process that makes through well-distributed water developments,
grasses do this effectively, especially in dry grasslands such a champion in building soils and subdividing the grassland into smaller units
climates where they are well adaped. Much storing carbon. The ultimate product of this with fencing or herding the stock regularly,
like solar panels, the more leaf area at right process are the black Chernozemic soils, found all expensive undertakings. The key is to allow
angles to the sun, the more potential the only in grassland ecosystems. It is a well known regrowth by limiting the length of time stock
grass has to capture energy. Bunch grasses fact that the richest soils in the world are those are exposed to a given range area. Allowing
have a deep root system, well adapted to access that develop in grasslands ecosystems. stock to repeatedly graze the perennial bunch
moisture from a deep soil profile in climates The success of building grassland soils depends grasses during the growing season holds these
where precipitation is only periodic. For this on a healthy plant community, particularly the plants in a state of energy deficit, and limits
process to be maximized, range management perennial bunch grasses. This is enhanced by root energy storage and root regrowth. A long
must be focussed on ensuring adequate top the presence of grazing animals. Grazers play history of inappropriate use of range during the
20 BC GRASSLANDSImpact of winter grazing
Dormant Season Grazing Cows hard at work on Big Sagebrush
PHOTO: Bob Haywood-Farmer PHOTO: Bob Haywood-Farmer PHOTO: Bob Haywood-Farmer
rapid growth period has led to the native bunch the perennial bunch grasses. With this type of burning, although it takes some years. Burning
grasses being referred to as decreasers. plant, there is a small window of time when takes out the sagebrush layer almost completely.
One grazing technique that is useful, stock will selectively graze it in preference to It can take as long as fifty years for sage to
especially in restoring range that has had a the grasses; it being greener and less lignified recover from fire. One could argue that from
history of overgrazing, is to delay grazing until than the grasses during this period. This does a biodiversity point of view, that is not ideal.
the perennial grasses have matured and have not eliminate the knapweed but with this kind Some sage provides cover for grounds dwellers,
subsequently gone dormant. This technique is of selective pressure, it is highly likely that with both furred and feathered. The grazing option
called ‘deferred grazing.’ In dry climates the repeated treatments, the knapweed would gives us a chance to retain a bit of sage for more
dormant period takes up most of the year; decrease in abundance. This is an area that is ground cover.
late summer, fall, winter, and very early spring. worthy of research to test its effectiveness. I Brush species such as poplar, red willow, or
Stock can graze grasslands during the dormant know from personal experience that this does alder can be negatively impacted by fall and
period with fewer deleterious effects on the occur when range is grazed in midsummer. I am winter grazing. Stock tend to browse these
plant community. Uniform distribution and less certain of the long-term effects of selectively species during this period, striving for higher
short duration become much less important and grazing knapweed at this vegetative state, but protein sources, and competing with wild
a good result is easily achieved. There is less logic tells me that it has potential to achieve ungulates that depend on the woody species.
need for expensive infrastructure and diligent a good result. A lower stocking rate might This can be mitigated by leaving adjacent areas
monitoring at this time. Most grazing rotations encourage more selectivity and result in less ungrazed, giving the wildlife an alternate place
include a period of dormant season grazing impact on the grasses. Stock can be trained to to browse. Some browsing invigorates brush
for a good outcome. That way, grazing during eat specific plants (such as knapweed) by feeding species to send up new shoots but the new
the growing season—the vulnerable period— it to cattle prior to turn out, adding to their growth doesn’t appear until the next growing
only occurs on some years, not every year. selectivity toward the specific plant. season. This is more of a problem on mid and
With rotational grazing on alternate years, the One thing I have noticed on winter grazed high elevation range, but riparian strips along
grassland is either rested entirely or grazed late, range is a gradual reduction in the prevalence water courses and around wetlands need to be
during the dormant period. of big sagebrush on snow covered range. Cattle monitored at all elevations.
Not all range plants go dormant at the same seem to browse the sagebrush enough to set it From a soils perspective, dormant season
time. This can provide an opportunity to put back. On the above photo the area to the left grazing is beneficial in that it allows perennial
grazing pressure on later maturing species. of the fence line has been repeatedly winter grasses to proliferate. If the ground is frozen, the
Spotted knapweed, for example, is a problematic grazed for five years. The reduction in big physical impact from stock trampling litter and
invasive plant that matures later than many of sagebrush is quite dramatic and less risky than manure and incorporating it into the soil surface
SPRING | SUMMER 2021 21You can also read
