Photo-Points An inexpensive camera and a few hours of time each year provide an effective, objective measure of range trend. The first step to using photo-points is to locate the key range sites within a ranch. Within each range site, areas are selected that represent the site as a whole. The number of areas selected may be few to many depending on the size of the ranch and number of sites present. A plot frame (at least 3 ft. by 3 ft.) is constructed from rebar or preferably PVC pipe. At each selected location, the frame is randomly placed then permanently marked by driving steel stakes at two opposite corners. Thus marked, the frame can be placed in the exact same location each year. A picture is then taken of the frame and the vegetation inside. Notes describing the vegetation within the frame and a second photograph of the general landscape around the frame will also be helpful. One to several of these photo-points may be located on any one area. The total number should not exceed that which the manager is willing to spend the time evaluating. Photos of each plot frame should be taken on an annual basis, preferably in the fall of the year. Almost any type of camera or film can be used. Most of the time associated with this technique will be involved in traveling to and finding the photo-points. Comparisons between two or three of the photographs and descriptions for the same frame over time provides an objective measure of change in range condition (range trend) for specific range sites and/or pastures. One day devoted to this monitoring method each year, can be one of the most effective management tools to evaluate past grazing management decisions. Exclosures Exclosures also provide an indication of range trend over time. The use of exclosures involves the exclusion of grazing by livestock and/or wildlife from specific areas. The differences between protected and grazed areas can then be used to make decisions concerning stocking rate and long-term range trend. As with photo-points, the first step is to identify key range sites within the ranch. At least one exclosure should be located within each of these key sites. Exclosures can be constructed from simple materials. A few steel fence posts and wire can be used to fence off permanent areas or mobile cages can be constructed using concrete reinforcement wire. Size of the exclosures can vary from a few square feet to thousands of square feet. Periodic examination of the differences between the exclosures and grazed areas will give gross estimates of range utilization and trend. It may be helpful to take periodic photographs of the protected and grazed areas, in combination with detailed notes, to help document change over time. Authors: Allan McGinty, Larry D. White