A 10-year range study shows… brush conversion costs and returns in San Louis Obispo County

Abstract

The Ranchita Range Study in San Luis Obispo County demonstrated that the complete conversion of California brushland to grass and legumes using mechanical clearing methods can be economical, improve wildlife habitat, lower fire hazards, and increase aesthetic values. By concentrating on the more productive sites, annual beef production amounted to 60 to 160 lbs per acre, and investment costs were recovered in five to 10 years.