To keep streams cool we must keep soils cool. Rain hitting warmed ground can be heated 10 degrees by the time it flows into streams. Bare soil gets 15 degrees hotter than vegetated ground on hot summer days. Grazing animals along streams break down the banks, reduce riparian vegetation that keeps streams cool, increase erosion and introduce pollution. Nutrients can raise stream temperature and stimulate algae growth, and as the algae decays it uses up oxygen. Murky waters high in suspended sediment heat up even quicker. To prevent stream bank breakdown:

1. Cattle should be kept out of streams by providing alternative water sources off-stream.

2. Limit the time that pastures with stream access are used.

3. Mineral salt blocks should be placed such that cattle are attracted away from stream banks. ~