Integrated evaluations
Two basic approaches are employed in the evaluation of a site,
regardless of the purpose: an integrated approach and a component approach, as
explained in chapter 4. Abiotic components and biotic components that are
important in evaluating a site for range improvement have been discussed in the
preceding sections, component by component. Most on-site surveys and
observations of natural resources are based on a component approach, although
the individual components being evaluated are not necessarily considered in
isolation. Within a systems framework, the components that are related to the
improvement of a site must be evaluated in an integrated manner. By doing so,
all of the elements of an ecosystem, both abiotic and biotic, will be studied to
form as complete a picture as possible of a site being considered for
improvement.
One final point: many site evaluations fail to include a
provision to monitor the changes in an ecosystem that could, subsequently, have
an influence on the success of a range improvement effort. Therefore, to the
extent possible, monitoring should be provided to be sure that temporal changes,
both positive and negative, are recorded and identified for possible changes in
past project management as well as for use in future project planning.
In the preceding pages, much has been said about the various
factors that need to be measured and evaluated. How these components are used in
evaluation has not been discussed. A computer model is not generally the answer.
Some limits may be needed to delineate the range of acceptable
conditions.