Framework / Assessment California Forests and Rangelands: Proposed Indicators Summary The ability to retain rangeland in livestock production uses depends on the economics of those uses and the ability of owners to maintain their ownerships in comparison to competing uses. This indicator will look at current information on the costs and returns associated with conventional cow-calf and sheep operations on rangelands. It will provide insights into whether or not these operations are stable, increasing or declining due to economic forces.