Over the years, the desert grasslands have seen a significant decline in grass cover, along with an increase in invasive shrubs. Much of the degradation of the desert grasslands has taken place in the last century, due to a variety of circumstances which include prolonged drought, and a substantial increase in grazing, with much of the land being overgrazed, without the opportunity for rest. In the past century, economic issues have also forced area ranchers to maximize herd size in order to increase financial returns, rather than take an approach that will benefit both the rancher and the health of the land. Along with economic consequences that affect area ranchers, unhealthy desert grasslands also pose a significant environmental threat, with heavily grazed areas showing a 75 percent reduction in bird species, along with significant degradation in riparian areas. HMI trains area farmers, ranchers, and land owners in the Southwest how to improve grazing management techniques, which in turn allows desert grasslands and shrubs flourishing. Find out today how HMI is helping to healing the desert grasslands of the Southwest. To support our efforts, visit our give page and give yourself or your family and friends the gift of desert grasslands restoration!