Grasslands

Grasslands and rangelands cover about one-third of the western United States, forming an often-overlooked cornerstone of mule deer habitat. Grasslands are rich in native herbaceous plants that are protein-rich and easy to digest, making them essential for mule deer nutrition especially during spring and summer. Plants on grasslands can make up over half of mule deer diets during critical growth periods, directly influencing fawn survival and the herd’s overall health. Summer grassland nutrition can even play a bigger role in their winter survival than winter forage.

Through initiatives like habitat restoration, brush planting, and wildlife-friendly fencing, we’ve helped improve over 700,000 acres of critical mule deer range. Our work supports sustainable land management and benefits a wide array of species across the American West. For every dollar donated, $0.88 goes directly to conservation efforts helping ensure a future where mule deer thrive and our North American landscapes remain wild, resilient, and full of life. Join us in protecting mule deer and the lands they roam. Support science-based wildlife conservation. Support the Mule Deer Foundation, today!

Volunteer working on habitat restoration with wind turbines in the background.

Grasslands, areas where the primary vegetation is a species of grass and trees and shrubs are limited, are one of the most imperiled ecosystem within the United States and constitute the eastern 3rd of the mule deer range. This area – the Great Plains, stretching from North Dakota to Texas and from the Missouri River to the Rocky Mountain Front, primary feature is agriculture and livestock grazing on predominately private lands. Mule Deer habitat in grasslands is dependent on the interspersion of broken topography, riparian areas, and large patches of habitat that provide the visual distance and acuity to detect and avoid predation. Grassland restoration at the Mule Deer Foundation is done through our Private Lands Program and Great Plains Initiative, where MDF can focus on those specific needs of deer and work directly with the private landowners and state fish and wildlife agencies to customize approaches to conservation of habitats. Fencing and reducing and eliminating barriers to movement allow deer to wander throughout the landscape regardless of ownership.

The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) is leading large-scale, collaborative efforts to conserve and restore grasslands. From conifer removal to invasive species control and sustainable grazing strategies, MDF partners with agencies, landowners, and conservation groups to safeguard these vital landscapes. By applying science-driven priorities and advocating for supportive policies, MDF is ensuring grasslands remain a thriving part of the West. Together, we can keep mule deer healthy and abundant across this historic range.