Investigates the serious threats to one of our most treasured natural resources. Grasslands cover almost one-third of the Earth's surface, house nearly a billion people, and are in grave danger of dissappearing. Inner Mongolia: On the remote steppes of northeastern China, nomadic herders are caught between ancient traditions and the pressure of globalization. Kenya: Once fertile grasslands have turned into seas of dust while farmers struggle to cope with the loss of precious rangelands and changing tribal customs. South Africa: With over eight hundred species of wild flowers carpeting the landscape, inhabitants of this delicate ecosystem strive to conserve the biodiversity of the world's oldest aboriginal prairie. Argentina: On the lush green Pampas, ranchers confront economic uncertainties that are threatening the heart and soul of the country. The American West: Modern cowboys are revitalizing parts of the Southwest to save a vanishing way of life.

CIRC # 399\\Originally broadcast as an episode of Journey to planet Earth on PBS in 2009. Special features: Abridged version (25 min.); Educators' guides (DVD-ROM). Public performance video.

Inner Mongolia -- Kenya -- South Africa -- Argentina -- The American West.