UCCE Marin Annual Report 2008 - Natural Resources

Natural Resources - Range Management

Range Management Program

Stephanie Larson, Range & Livestock Advisor

Opportunities for sustainable meat production in Marin

A feasibility study was conducted to determine if the region's markets, supply and demand side, can support a regional, multi-species (red meat) facility. The USDA facility would offer organic certification, full traceability, humane treatment, and a focus on locally produced meats. The study was conducted by the Mendocino County Economic Development and Finance Corporation, UCCE Mendocino, the UC Small Farms Center, and two consulting firms with expertise in the design of meat processing facilities. The study analyzed livestock supply, markets, and risk, as well as facility design. A final report will be available to interested parties in March 2009.

Grazing waiver compliance with Regional Water Quality Control Board

To comply with the Tomales Bay watershed water quality grazing waivers, UCCE is partnering with the Marin RCD and NRCS to fund and deliver outreach programs to aid rangeland owners and operators. The program includes assistance in completing required documentation, and funding water quality improvements in the Tomales Bay watershed.

Marin Carbon Project evolves

We are partnered with Marin RCD, MALT, Rathmann Fund, UC Berkeley and others to fund a long-term study of the carbon sequestering potential in Marin's rangelands. Sequestering carbon can positively impact climate change. The project measured soil carbon in 30 rangeland sites throughout Marin County. Different management treatments have been measured and carbon levels documented. The project will continue measuring carbon levels and working with carbon markets to determine the viability of improved management treatments and selling carbon credits off rangelands.

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