Deferment is the delay of grazing to achieve a specific management objective (Society for Range Management 2004). Skovlin (1984) suggests that deferring use until the late season (fall), until restoration of habitat is ac-ceptable, offers a good measure of protection without great expense.

In a study of 34 grazing systems in operation for 10-20 years in southwestern Montana, Myers (1989a) found timing of grazing, duration of use, and frequency of fall grazing were important factors in successful management (Table 3). The effectiveness of livestock grazing management was judged based on the vigor, regeneration, and utilization of woody species, as well as on bank stability.