Creosotebush totaled 6% of the plant community. Since creosotebush is not present in the "climax" community, none can be counted toward the condition score, and a zero is entered in the far right column (Table 2). Range condition of a site is then determined by totaling the condition scores for all species present (Table 2). The number obtained (0% to 100%) can be divided into 4 classes: Excellent Condition = 76 to 100% of the climax community Good Condition = 51 to 75% of the climax community Fair Condition = 26 to 50% of the climax community Poor Condition = 0 to 25% of the climax community The example presented in Table 2, totaled 52%, or low-good range condition. How Does Range Condition Differ From Forage Condition? The terms range condition and forage condition are often used interchangeably by ranchers, although their meanings differ greatly. Range condition has been defined as the current ecological condition (as determined by species composition) of range as compared to its ecological potential. Forage condition relates to aspects such as the quantity of forage available and its nutritional qualities (protein, energy, minerals and palatability). Range condition changes slowly over a period of years. Forage condition can change in a few days. Why Is Range Condition Important To Me? As range condition improves, the number of different plant species growing on a specific range site generally increases. Greater species diversity improves both the stability of the plant community over time, and the diet quantity and quality available to the grazing animal. Overall plant production and stability of a range site generally improves as range condition improves, because shallow rooted plants (annuals or sod forming perennials) are replaced by deeper rooted, perennial bunch grasses. Associated with this species shift are better overall soil hydrologic conditions. Rainfall infiltration rates increase while evaporation and soil erosion decrease. These factors coupled with more efficient use of water within the soil profile by deeper rooted plants result in greater forage production and stability. Improved livestock production is also generally associated with higher range condition classes. Livestock are selective grazers. At higher condition classes, grazing animals are able to select from a greater diversity of plant species, thus maintaining a more optimum plane of nutrition. Diet quality levels will also vary less from season to season and year to year as compared to lower range condition classes. Authors: Allan McGinty, Larry D. White