A widespread problem on Nevada rangelands is frequent and large wildfires, often due to cheatgrass.

Invasive annual grasses have become problematic across the Western region because they readily outcompete more desirable perennial grasses, especially in areas that have been recently burned or where the soil and vegetation have been disturbed.

Ranchers and rangeland managers sometimes use fire to retard invasive brush such as juniper or cedar and create more forage. In the process, this also reduces fuel loads to prevent catastrophic wildfires.

The arid Western states are prone to seasonal wildfires, especially during drought conditions. Targeted grazing can provide forage for cattle and create firebreaks to slow a wildfire’s momentum.