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Context: Omega-3 in pasture-fed beef and lamb is related to its availability in the forage species grazed. The variation in omega-3 content of several forages has been examined in the USA and UK, but not in south-eastern Australia across different stages of maturity. Aims: This study aimed to determine the change in omega-3, at different stages of plant development, in four species of forage commonly grazed by ruminants in south-eastern Australia. Methods: Four species, oats (Avena sativa L. cv. Eurabbie), annual ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. cv. Rambo), phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L. cv HoldfastGT) and subterranean clover (Trifolium subterrraneum L. cv. Coolamon) were grown in a replicated pot trial and harvested at seven stages of maturity corresponding to early vegetative, late vegetative, stem elongation, boot, anthesis, soft dough and ripening for oats, phalaris and ryegrass, or relative to day of flowering in clover. Proximate analysis and the concentration of fatty acids including C18:3n-3 and C18:2n-6 as well as the ratio of n-6:n-3 was determined. Key results: The mean (±s.e.) proportion of C18:3n-3 was highest in clover (50.6 ± 0.8), and higher in ryegrass (45.1 ± 0.5) and phalaris (44.0 ± 0.6) compared with oats (39.4 ± 0.5). Omega-3 proportion decreased with increasing maturity for oats (13.9 ± 0.86 vs 64.3 ± 0.68), ryegrass (17.3 ± 0.86 vs 68.2 ± 0.65) and phalaris (21.6 ± 1.63 vs 65.1 ± 0.79) but not to the same extent for sub clover (41.5 ± 1.38 vs 57.4 ± 0.79). The proportion of omega-3 was positively correlated with crude protein content. Conclusions: Omega-3 levels decreased in forages during development and was positively related to crude protein content, which is likely associated with total leaf chloroplasts. Although crude protein content remained higher for clover compared with other species, this did not translate to a higher proportion of omega-3 for any crude protein level. Implications: Grazing forages at earlier stages of maturity and maximising the amount of crude protein available for growth will increase the amount of omega-3 in plant material. The availability of this omega-3 for incorporation into meat and milk should be examined. Omega-3 levels in pasture-fed beef and lamb are related to its availability in the forage plants grazed by livestock. We measured how omega-3 levels changed at different stages of plant development in four species of forages in south-eastern Australia. Omega-3 was richest in clover and least abundant in oats, diminishing as plants matured. Grazing forages at earlier developmental stages and maximising the amount of crude protein available for growth will increase the amount of omega-3 in plant material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Collared Pratincole (Glareola pratincola) is an endangered shorebird in Hungary, which disappeared as a character breeding species from its sodic grassland habitats during the mid-1990s. Therefore, it was a positive experience to witness the return of this species to its natural habitats, which we observed and documented in 2022 and 2024, and suggested in 2023. During the 2022 observation, one of the three pairs nesting in the Alsó-Szúnyog-puszta reached the chick-rearing stage. We have summarised twenty-one observations of the species in its natural habitat during the breeding season between 2013 and 2024. Based on our data, Collared Pratincole has been confirmed to breed three times in Hungary in its natural habitats, with five additional instances of assumed breeding between 1995 and 2021. In 2022, the species bred in sodic grassland (Camphorosmetum annuae) grazed with livestock. Pratincoles nested in colonies mixed with Kentish Plovers (Charadrius alexandrinus) and other shorebirds, such as Northern Lapwings (Vanellus vanellus), Black-tailed Godwits (Limosa limosa), and Common Redshanks (Tringa totanus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Aquatic‐terrestrial transition zones contain features essential for many species that often benefit wetland biodiversity. Shallow flood‐zone areas and reed beds are indicative of natural wetland habitats; however, how such features affect the native arthropod biodiversity in constructed wetlands is scarcely investigated. We asked how these shoreline features, as well as wetland shoreline properties and grazing management, influence riparian arthropod diversities and habitat specializations. Location: Constructed wetlands, Sweden. Taxa: Araneae, Coleoptera, Diptera. Methods: Taxonomic‐, phylogenetic‐ and trait diversities, along with habitat specialist species richness, were measured in riparian spiders, beetles and selected Diptera in 68 constructed wetlands in two regions of Sweden. We ran structural equation models to estimate direct and indirect effects from shoreline slope, flooded grassland, reed areas and grazing management on group diversities, and used multivariate models to determine drivers on habitat specialist species richness. Results: Flooded grassland and reed area, along with shoreline slope influenced arthropod diversities, and responses differed between arthropod groups and diversity metrics. Spider trait diversity was greater in wetlands with larger flooded grassland areas, whilst beetle trait diversity was reduced. Spider phylogenetic diversity was greater in wetlands containing larger reed areas and in wetlands with steeper shorelines. However, species richness in predatory flies was greater in wetlands with more gentle shorelines. Grazing management had limited effects on arthropod diversities; however, species richness in wetland specialist and generalist predatory dipterans was greater in the absence of grazers in wetlands with greater flooded grassland areas. Main Conclusions: As requirements vary considerably among arthropods, care must be taken when constructing and managing wetlands to benefit arthropod biodiversity. The present results suggest wetlands with a varied shoreline, albeit with greater proportions of flood areas, or multiple adjacent wetlands with varying shores in a wet landscape and a mild grazing regiment, would accommodate a more diverse arthropod fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of virtual fencing in cattle farming is beneficial due to its flexibility, not fragmenting the landscape or restricting access like physical fences. Using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology, virtual fence units emit an audible signal and a low-energy electric shock when crossing a predefined border. In large remote grazing areas and complex terrains, where the performance of the GPS units can be affected by landscape structure, increased positioning errors can lead to unnecessary shocks to the animals leading to animal welfare concerns. This study aimed to explore factors affecting the GPS performance of commercially available virtual fence collars for cattle (NoFence©), both using static tests and mobile tests, i.e., when deployed on free-ranging cattle. Results: The static tests revealed generally high fix success rates (% successful positioning attempts), and a lower success rate at four of 30 test locations was most likely due to a lack in GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) coverage. On average the GPS precision and accuracy errors were 3.3 m ± 2.5 SD and 4.6 m ± 3.2 SD, respectively. We found strong evidence that the GPS precision and accuracy errors increased errors under closed canopies. We also found evidence for an effect of the sky-view on the GPS performance, although at a lesser extent than canopy. The direction of the accuracy error in the Cartesian plane was not uniform, but biased, depending on the aspect of the test locations. With an average of 10.8 m ± 6.8 SD, the accuracy error of the mobile tests was more than double that of the static tests. Furthermore, we found evidence that more rugged landscapes resulted in higher GPS accuracy errors. However, the error from mobile tests was not affected by canopy cover, sky-view, or cattle behaviors. Conclusions: This study showed that GPS performance can be negatively affected by landscape complexity, such as increased ruggedness and covered habitats, resulting in reduced virtual fence effectiveness and potential welfare concerns for cattle. These issues can be mitigated through proper pasture planning, such as avoiding rugged areas for the virtual fence border. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The use of virtual fencing in cattle farming is beneficial due to its flexibility, not fragmenting the landscape or restricting access like physical fences. Using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology, virtual fence units emit an audible signal and a low-energy electric shock when crossing a predefined border. In large remote grazing areas and complex terrains, where the performance of the GPS units can be affected by landscape structure, increased positioning errors can lead to unnecessary shocks to the animals leading to animal welfare concerns. This study aimed to explore factors affecting the GPS performance of commercially available virtual fence collars for cattle (NoFence©), both using static tests and mobile tests, i.e., when deployed on free-ranging cattle. Results The static tests revealed generally high fix success rates (% successful positioning attempts), and a lower success rate at four of 30 test locations was most likely due to a lack in GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) coverage. On average the GPS precision and accuracy errors were 3.3 m ± 2.5 SD and 4.6 m ± 3.2 SD, respectively. We found strong evidence that the GPS precision and accuracy errors increased errors under closed canopies. We also found evidence for an effect of the sky-view on the GPS performance, although at a lesser extent than canopy. The direction of the accuracy error in the Cartesian plane was not uniform, but biased, depending on the aspect of the test locations. With an average of 10.8 m ± 6.8 SD, the accuracy error of the mobile tests was more than double that of the static tests. Furthermore, we found evidence that more rugged landscapes resulted in higher GPS accuracy errors. However, the error from mobile tests was not affected by canopy cover, sky-view, or cattle behaviors. Conclusions This study showed that GPS performance can be negatively affected by landscape complexity, such as increased ruggedness and covered habitats, resulting in reduced virtual fence effectiveness and potential welfare concerns for cattle. These issues can be mitigated through proper pasture planning, such as avoiding rugged areas for the virtual fence border.

Abstract Background Traditionally managed semi-natural pastures are recognised for their high biodiversity. One drawback is that these pastures are often low in fodder production and hence rather unprofitable, which may lead to abandonment. Two ways to increase production and profitability and maintain grazing are to (i) offer the grazers supplementary feed, or (ii) co-enclose the semi-natural pasture with an improved pasture. Both practices may transfer nutrients to the semi-natural pasture, with potential negative effects on biodiversity. This systematic review aimed to analyse the available evidence concerning the following primary question: “What is the effect of giving grazers access to additional nutrient sources on biodiversity in semi-natural pastures?” (Q1). We also used two supporting questions: “What is the effect of giving grazers access to additional nutrient sources on nutrient status of the soils of semi-natural pastures?” (Q2) and “How do the grazers of semi-natural pastures behave while having access to additional nutrient sources?” (Q3). Methods Searches for peer-reviewed and grey literature were made using bibliographic databases, search engines, specialist websites, and stakeholder contacts. Literature was screened for relevance according to predefined eligibility criteria, and critical appraisal was performed using the tool CEECAT. A database of the relevant studies was compiled. Descriptive information about the evidence base is presented in tables and an interactive evidence atlas. Because of absent study setup replication, Q1 and Q2 were not analysed quantitatively. However, sample size allowed the use of mixed modelling to quantitatively analyse Q3 regarding the effects of (i) co-enclosing an improved pasture on grazers’ electivity for the improved area, and (ii) supplementary feed on the forage intake of grazers. Review findings A total of 12 articles on the effects of supplementary feeding and 19 on the effects of co-enclosing an improved pasture were included, of which some targeted multiple review questions. Because of the limited literature, it is not possible to draw any conclusions concerning the effects on biodiversity (Q1) or nutritional status (Q2) in semi-natural pastures. For Q3, 28 studies fulfilled our criteria, of which 18 investigated the behaviour of grazers related to co-enclosing an improved pasture, and 10 investigated their forage intake while having access to supplementary fodder. The results show that all grazer species except goats preferred grazing in the improved areas regardless of whether they were grazing together with other grazer species or not. We found no effect of supplementary feeding on forage intake of the grazers. Conclusions We detected a knowledge gap concerning the effects of the two additional nutrient sources on semi-natural pasture biodiversity (Q1) and nutrient status (Q2), which points toward further research needs. Analysis of Q3 showed that grazers prefer to graze improved compared to semi-natural pasture areas. However, how this behaviour subsequently affects nutrient transport and biodiversity is unclear and cannot be translated into management recommendations. To gain better knowledge about the primary question of our review, research focusing specifically on this question is needed. We provide suggestions for how such studies could be designed, including spatio-temporal setup, and key management and environmental conditions to consider.

Concentrate supplementation can affect multiple parameters in grazing dairy systems. In mixed pastures (Medicago sativa L. and Dactylis glomerata L.) grazed by New Zealand Holstein cows, a study was done of the effects of concentrate supplementation timing on individual production, stocking rate and milk production per hectare. Two experiments were done, one in winter and another in spring-summer. Experimental design was 3x3 crossover with treatments defined by concentrate (5.0 kg DM cow-1d -1) supplement administration times: after morning milking (AM), after afternoon milking (PM), and equally divided between both milkings (AM-PM). The experimental units were batches of six (winter) or five cows (spring-summer), which received the treatments, and their respective grazing areas. The rotational grazing management criterion was 8 cm residual forage height in all treatments, which allowed estimation of the effects of the treatments on stocking rate. Stocking rate did not differ (P>0.05) between treatments. Milk production per cow in the AM treatments was an average of 10.2 % higher than the other two treatments, both in winter (8.6 %, P=0.0002) and spring-summer (11.7 %, P<0.0001). The increase in milk production per hectare (9 %) was due to individual response and not to differences in stocking rate. Use of a uniform residual forage height was a simple way of estimating the response in stocking rate and thus milk production per hectare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land degradation in communal rangelands poses significant challenges to environmental sustainability, agricultural productivity, and livelihoods in southern Africa. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of research trends, key contributors, thematic evolution, and collaborative networks in the field of land degradation in communal rangelands from 1997 to 2024. Utilizing data obtained from the Scopus database, we examined 66 publications to identify patterns in publication output, leading journals, influential articles, and prominent authors and institutions. The analysis demonstrates an overall increase in research output, with a notable surge in publications during the past decade, indicating a growing academic and policy interest in this field. Major themes identified include sustainable land management, restoration strategies, and the impacts of grazing management on ecosystem health. Networks showcasing co-authorship and keyword co-occurrence reveal robust collaborative connections among researchers and a concentrated focus on specific dominant themes. Consequently, these findings propose opportunities for expanding interdisciplinary research and exploring underrepresented areas. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape, offering insights to steer future studies and inform policy interventions aimed at mitigating land degradation and bolstering the resilience of communal rangelands in southern Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Grazing exerts a profound influence on both the plant diversity and productivity of grasslands, while simultaneously exerting a significant impact on regulating grassland soil carbon sequestration. Moreover, besides altering the taxonomic diversity of plant communities, grazing can also affect their diversity of functional traits. However, we still poorly understand how grazing modifies the relationship between plant functional diversity (FD) and soil carbon sequestration in grassland ecosystems. Here, we conducted a grazing manipulation experiment to investigate the effects of different grazing regimes (no grazing, sheep grazing (SG) and cattle grazing (CG)) on the relationships between plant FD and soil carbon sequestration in meadow and desert steppe. Our findings showed that different livestock species changed the relationships between plant FD and soil organic carbon (SOC) in the meadow steppe. SG decoupled the originally positive relationship between FD and SOC, whereas CG changed the relationship from positive to negative. In the desert steppe, both SG and CG strengthened the positive relationship between FD and SOC. Our study illuminates the considerable impact of livestock species on the intricate mechanisms of soil carbon sequestration, primarily mediated through the modulation of various measures of functional trait diversity. In ungrazed meadows and grazed deserts, maintaining high plant FD is conducive to soil carbon sequestration, whereas in grazed meadows and ungrazed deserts, this relationship may disappear or even reverse. By measuring the traits and controlling the grazing activities, we can accurately predict the carbon sequestration potential in grassland ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock excretions are crucial for nutrient cycling in pasture ecosystems. However, conventional methods based on field observations require significant human power and are time‐consuming. This study developed a model, 'Dung Detector (DD)', for detecting cattle dung in pastures from drone images using the You Only Look Once (YOLO) v5 algorithm. The DD model was trained using our custom dataset including 1,504 split images from drone orthomosaic images in five paddocks: Obihiro (OBH), Shintoku (STK), Minokamo (MNO), Miyota (MYT), and Yatsugatake (YGK). The detection accuracy was evaluated using ground‐truth data acquired in two quadrats within paddocks. The DD model performed well for OBH and STK (F‐score = 0.861 and 0.835) paddocks with simple grass species and low surface sward height (SSH). Although the MNO and MYT, with complex vegetation and high SSH, showed few false positives (precision >0.9), some cattle dung pats were undetectable, presumably due to grass height (Recall = 0.500 and 0.276). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating forage legumes into grasslands offers numerous ecosystem services. However, the management of grass‐legume pastures is challenging because the interaction between the defoliation frequency and severity may affect the legume persistence and forage intake by grazing animals. This 2‐year study evaluated the most effective grazing intensity to increase forage intake while maintaining a balanced legume proportion in tropical pastures consisting of Brachiaria brizantha and Arachis pintoi. Three treatments (grazing intensities) were assessed: severe, moderate, and low, corresponding to stubble heights of 10, 15, and 20 cm, respectively, and a pre‐grazing height of 25 cm. Two purebred Tabapua heifers were used for each treatment, and additional put‐and‐take animals were introduced, as required. Canopy structure, grazing behaviour, nutritive value, and forage intake were evaluated. The legume proportion in herbage mass remained consistent across all intensities, averaging 35% pre‐ and 32% post‐grazing. The grazing duration remained consistent across treatments on the first and third days, with an average grazing time of 390 and 440 min, respectively. Under post‐grazing conditions, low‐intensity grazing had a 52% greater intake rate than severe‐intensity grazing, which was attributed to a greater biting rate (37.9 bites/min) and bite weight (0.9 g DM/bite). Moderate grazing intensity (stubble height of ~15 cm associated with a pre‐grazing height of ~25 cm) is recommended to manage a mixture of B. brizantha and A. pintoi when the objective is to couple high forage intake with a balanced legume proportion in the pasture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incorporation of dual‐purpose alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) cultivars into bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) is a viable option to extend the grazing season in Southern forage systems. However, data are limited on which harvest management strategy (HMS) optimizes the use of alfalfa‐bermudagrass (ABG) mixtures in the Southern US. A two‐year study evaluated ABG mixtures under three HMS [cut only (CO), graze only (GO), or cut and graze (CG)].in Headland, AL and Tifton, GA. Alfalfa‐bermudagrass mixtures utilized in this evaluation were ‘Bulldog 805’ alfalfa that was interseeded into ‘Tifton 85’ bermudagrass. Treatments were evaluated for forage, animal, and total system performance. Herbage accumulation varied by year and location (p < .01), but the number of harvests ultimately determined the total forage produced. Forage allowance was never limiting but did differ among treatments at Tifton, GA (p = .02). The CG HMS allowed for similar daily (p > .06) and liveweight gains (p > .56) on fewer days of grazing as compared to the GO treatments. The greater alfalfa percentage in the CG HMS translated to greater total digestible nutrients (TDN) and crude protein (CP), though not always statistically different. The CO HMS maximized system performance when evaluated for total gain (actual gains + predicted gains). However, the CG management allowed for more production opportunities across the season, thereby reducing economic risk. Future research should focus on evaluating the economic implications of introducing each HMS into ABG systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate estimation of aboveground net herbaceous production (ANHP) is crucial in rangeland management and monitoring. Remote and rural rangelands typically lack direct observation infrastructure, making satellite-derived methods essential. When ground data are available, a simple and effective way to estimate ANHP from satellites is to derive the empirical relationship between ANHP and plant-absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR), which can be estimated from the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). While there is some evidence that this relationship will differ across rangeland vegetation types, it is unclear whether this relationship will change across grazing management regimes. This study aimed to assess the impact of grazing management on the relationship between ground-observed ANHP and satellite-derived APAR, considering variations in plant communities across ecological sites in the shortgrass steppe of northeastern Colorado. Additionally, we compared satellite-predicted biomass production from the process-based Rangeland Analysis Platform (RAP) model to our empirical APAR-based model. We found that APAR could be used to predict ANHP in the shortgrass steppe, with the relationship being influenced by ecosite characteristics rather than grazing management practices. For each unit of added APAR (MJ m−2 day−1), ANHP increased by 9.39 kg ha−1, and ecosites with taller structured herbaceous vegetation produced, on average, 3.92–5.71 kg ha−1 more ANHP per unit APAR than an ecosite dominated by shorter vegetation. This was likely due to the increased allocation of plant resources aboveground for C3 mid-grasses in taller structured ecosites compared to the C4 short-grasses that dominate the shorter structured ecosites. Moreover, we found that our locally calibrated empirical model generally performed better than the continentally calibrated process-based RAP model, though RAP performed reasonably well for the dominant ecosite. For our empirical models, R2 values varied by ecosite ranging from 0.49 to 0.67, while RAP R2 values ranged from 0.07 to 0.4. Managers in the shortgrass steppe can use satellites to estimate herbaceous production even without detailed information on short-term grazing management practices. The results from our study underscore the importance of understanding plant community composition for enhancing the accuracy of remotely sensed predictions of ANHP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditionally managed semi-natural pastures are recognised for their high biodiversity. One drawback is that these pastures are often low in fodder production and hence rather unprofitable, which may lead to abandonment. Two ways to increase production and profitability and maintain grazing are to (i) offer the grazers supplementary feed, or (ii) co-enclose the semi-natural pasture with an improved pasture. Both practices may transfer nutrients to the semi-natural pasture, with potential negative effects on biodiversity. This systematic review aimed to analyse the available evidence concerning the following primary question: "What is the effect of giving grazers access to additional nutrient sources on biodiversity in semi-natural pastures?" (Q1). We also used two supporting questions: "What is the effect of giving grazers access to additional nutrient sources on nutrient status of the soils of semi-natural pastures?" (Q2) and "How do the grazers of semi-natural pastures behave while having access to additional nutrient sources?" (Q3). Methods: Searches for peer-reviewed and grey literature were made using bibliographic databases, search engines, specialist websites, and stakeholder contacts. Literature was screened for relevance according to predefined eligibility criteria, and critical appraisal was performed using the tool CEECAT. A database of the relevant studies was compiled. Descriptive information about the evidence base is presented in tables and an interactive evidence atlas. Because of absent study setup replication, Q1 and Q2 were not analysed quantitatively. However, sample size allowed the use of mixed modelling to quantitatively analyse Q3 regarding the effects of (i) co-enclosing an improved pasture on grazers' electivity for the improved area, and (ii) supplementary feed on the forage intake of grazers. Review findings: A total of 12 articles on the effects of supplementary feeding and 19 on the effects of co-enclosing an improved pasture were included, of which some targeted multiple review questions. Because of the limited literature, it is not possible to draw any conclusions concerning the effects on biodiversity (Q1) or nutritional status (Q2) in semi-natural pastures. For Q3, 28 studies fulfilled our criteria, of which 18 investigated the behaviour of grazers related to co-enclosing an improved pasture, and 10 investigated their forage intake while having access to supplementary fodder. The results show that all grazer species except goats preferred grazing in the improved areas regardless of whether they were grazing together with other grazer species or not. We found no effect of supplementary feeding on forage intake of the grazers. Conclusions: We detected a knowledge gap concerning the effects of the two additional nutrient sources on semi-natural pasture biodiversity (Q1) and nutrient status (Q2), which points toward further research needs. Analysis of Q3 showed that grazers prefer to graze improved compared to semi-natural pasture areas. However, how this behaviour subsequently affects nutrient transport and biodiversity is unclear and cannot be translated into management recommendations. To gain better knowledge about the primary question of our review, research focusing specifically on this question is needed. We provide suggestions for how such studies could be designed, including spatio-temporal setup, and key management and environmental conditions to consider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fencing is essential for rotational grazing, a pivotal practice to support conservation and natural resource management. Virtual fencing offers a technological alternative to traditional fencing and represents potential for increased resource optimization in rotational grazing. While the virtual fencing industry is emerging in the US, adoption is still limited and research on its benefits and broader implications is still minimal. This exploratory study examined the potential and limitations of virtual fencing products and assessed the conditions that enable ranchers in the Midwest to reap the most benefits from their use in grazing livestock. We conducted qualitative interviews with company representatives bringing virtual fencing to the US market and ranchers piloting them on their livestock operations. Environmental benefits included facilitation of strategically-planned rotational grazing that improves pasture management. Economic benefits included significant savings in time, money, and labor for ranchers. Animal welfare was perceived as positively impacted, with the technology allowing detailed tracking of animal behavior and movement. Challenges included current market capacity to meet demand for virtual fencing products, the costs, and concerns about collar functionalities like GPS accuracy and battery life. The interaction of virtual fencing with existing fencing laws is also uncertain, representing uncharted territory. Overall, while virtual fencing shows promise in revolutionizing livestock management, its adoption is contingent on addressing these multifaceted challenges. The findings provide a roadmap for further investigations pertaining to the use of virtual fencing to facilitate natural resource management and conservation practices, specifically adaptive rotational grazing of livestock.

Using a weight of evidence approach, natural capital outcomes associated with regenerative grazing and silvopastoral systems were compared to those associated with conventional grazing systems. The aim of the review was to better understand how grazing management influences 16 natural capital indicators likely to be material from both an economic and sustainability perspective for grazing enterprises and to assess the evidence for associated impacts, positive or negative, on the natural capital resources required to sustain the system. Material natural capital issues reviewed included water availability and security, water quality, soil health and pasture productivity, biodiversity and climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.The review confirms previous evidence that moderate to high levels of grazing tends to degrade natural capital, relative to light to moderate levels of grazing. In relation to regenerative grazing practices the responses were less clear. Regenerative grazing practices may have a positive impact on natural capital, particularly in relation to soil biodiversity and live weight gain on a per head basis. However, the evidence base suggests that the effect size may be small and may take some years to be realised. For 12 of the 16 indicators reviewed, the natural capital outcomes were inconclusive or unresolved even though for five of these indicators, the evidence base was considered to be robust. For the remainder of these the evidence base was insufficient to support an analysis of potential impacts. Similarly, for silvopastoral grazing management systems, there was some evidence to suggest that this type of grazing management could lead to improved natural capital outcomes. However, the evidence base was generally insufficient to definitively attribute the changes in grazing management practices to natural capital outcomes.Although the evidence base for many of the natural capital outcomes associated with differing grazing management practices is incomplete, it should not be interpreted that this indicates a lack of a beneficial response, where a beneficial response would be characterised by improved natural capital and enterprise productivity. Rather it highlights shortcomings in the underlying evidence. Very few studies have the capacity to fully account for the benefits of changes in management practices on the natural capital outcomes and the productivity of the enterprise simultaneously and over a sufficient period of time to observe change. This was particularly evident in relation to carbon storage. While there have been many studies that have examined changes in the individual stocks, e.g. soil carbon or emissions in relation to grazing management very few studies have examined the whole farm carbon balance. Increased adoption of processes such as natural capital accounting, although in their infancy, could help to address this challenge and facilitate a more systematic analysis an enterprises natural capital and financial performance.

Aims: Environmental managers require reliable and cost‐efficient monitoring methods for effective decision‐making. Understanding forage availability is important for managing wild, vertebrate herbivore populations. We developed a process for exploring the accuracy and cost efficiency of various biomass estimation techniques for a case study where semi‐arid woodland restoration is threatened by kangaroo grazing, with the aim of determining which method was most fit for purpose in a given decision context. Location: Wyperfeld National Park, southeastern Australia. Methods: Grass biomass was estimated using a variety of methods, then compared to clipped biomass using linear models. Biomass estimation methods were either field‐based (i.e., rising plate meter, multispectral radiometer) or satellite‐based (i.e., Landsat satellite imagery, AussieGRASS forage production model). Sampling occurred across open and wooded semi‐arid vegetation types. We compared methods based on accuracy, the ability of each method to accurately predict a 'forage‐switch' threshold, cost, and the suitability for the management context. Results: For this case study, the multispectral radiometer was the most precise, yet most expensive, biomass estimation method over a single survey. However, satellite imagery proved to be the most cost‐efficient and fit for purpose, as it was inexpensive and most accurately estimated biomass around a forage‐switch threshold, second only to the multispectral radiometer. Accuracy of all methods was improved by including tree cover in the regression models. Conclusions: We demonstrate a process for exploring which biomass estimation tool might be preferred for a given decision context, highlighting accuracy, consideration of tolerance to uncertainty and risk, the spatial and temporal scale of information required, and budget constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grazing management and nitrogen fertilisation may affect forage accumulation (FA), nutritive value, and grazing efficiency (GE) of the highly productive 'Zuri' guineagrass [Megathyrsus maximus (Jacq.) B.K.Simon & S.W.L. Jacobs syn. Panicum maximum Jacq.]. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of pre‐graze canopy heights [55 and 75 cm (H55 and H75, respectively)] and N fertilisation rates [150 and 300 kg N ha−1 year−1 (N150 and N300, respectively)] on FA, GE, grazing losses (GL), and nutritive value of Zuri under rotational stocking. The stubble height was 50% of the pre‐graze canopy height. The total FA was 20% greater under H75 than H55 (22,120 vs. 18,370 kg DM ha−1 year−1), as well as the GL was greater under H75 (85%) than under H55 (79%). Regardless of pre‐graze height, the upper stratum of the canopy was composed mostly of leaves contributing to similar crude protein (CP) (142 g kg−1) and in vitro digestible organic matter (IVDOM) (559 g kg−1) concentrations. Greater N rate (N300) increased FA (23,500 vs. 16,980 kg DM ha−1 year−1) and resulted in greater GE (84% vs. 80%) compared to N150. The CP and IVDOM concentrations under N300 (157 and 571 g kg−1, respectively) were greater than under N150 (128 and 547 g kg−1). Zuri guineagrass grazed at H75 has great FA and GE, maintaining a similar forage nutritive value compared to H55. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research on the significant toxic weed Oxytropis glabra, which adversely affects the grazing industry and the ecological integrity of natural grasslands in the arid and semi-arid regions of northern China, aims to delineate its potential distribution amidst changing climate conditions. This analysis involves both current conditions (1970–2000) and future projections (2050s and 2070s) under four climate scenarios using an R-optimized MaxEnt model. The results indicate that the distribution of O. glabra was primarily influenced by the temperature of the coldest quarter (bio11, ranging from −12.04 to −0.07 °C), precipitation of the coldest quarter (bio19, 0 to 15.17 mm), and precipitation of the warmest quarter (bio18, 0 to 269.50 mm). Currently, the weed predominantly occupies parts of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia, and Tibet. Projections indicate that, across four future climate scenarios, the area of suitable habitats for O. glabra is expected to expand and shift toward higher latitudes and elevations. The research provides valuable information and a theoretical foundation for the management of O. glabra, alongside advancing grassland ecological research and grazing practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Developing sustainable livestock management requires knowledge and monitoring of which habitats within an enclosure the livestock prefers to stay in and in what way they utilise the available habitats. The technology of virtual fencing provides the ability to both monitor and adapt enclosures, thus adding value to the expense related to fencing for farmers and livestock managers. To this end, the possibilities this new technology offers need to be explored and methods developed. In this paper, we explore the monitoring capabilities of virtual fencing technology on a herd of cattle in a coastal dune landscape. We explore to what extent a herd of cattle prefers some habitats over others, and in what way they utilise each of the available habitats. We find clear differences in the amount of time the herd spends in each habitat and in the ways they utilise each habitat. The herd spend a disproportionately large amount of time in salt meadow, and likely spend most of their time there resting and ruminating. We conclude that the method for monitoring of cattle applied in this study, using existing virtual fencing technology, is a relatively precise method useful in year-round monitoring, with room for improvement. There has been an increased focus on new technologies to monitor habitat use and behaviour of cattle to develop a more sustainable livestock grazing system without compromising animal welfare. One of the currently used methods for monitoring cattle behaviour is tri-axial accelerometer data from systems such as virtual fencing technology or bespoke monitoring technology. Collection and transmission of high-frequency accelerometer and GNSS data is a major energy cost, and quickly drains the battery in contemporary virtual fencing systems, making it unsuitable for long-term monitoring. In this paper, we explore the possibility of determining habitat preference and habitat utilisation patterns in cattle using low-frequency activity and location data. We achieve this by (1) calculating habitat selection ratios, (2) determining daily activity patterns, and (3) based on those, inferring grazing and resting sites in a group of cattle wearing virtual fencing collars in a coastal setting with grey, wooded, and decalcified dunes, humid dune slacks, and salt meadows. We found that GNSS data, and a measure of activity, combined with accurate mapping of habitats can be an effective tool in assessing habitat preference. The animals preferred salt meadows over the other habitats, with wooded dunes and humid dune slacks being the least preferred. We were able to identify daily patterns in activity. By comparing general trends in activity levels to the existing literature, and using a Gaussian mixture model, it was possible to infer resting and grazing behaviour in the different habitats. According to our inference of behaviour the herd predominantly used the salt meadows for resting and ruminating. The approach used in this study allowed us to use GNSS location data and activity data and combine it with accurate habitat mapping to assess habitat preference and habitat utilisation patterns, which can be an important tool for guiding management decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review discusses the scientific evidence that supports the nutritional value of mare milk and how its properties are essentially achieved when mares are managed under grazing conditions. Mare milk's similarity with the chemical composition of human milk makes this food and its derived products not only suitable for human consumption but also an interesting food regarding human health. The contribution of horse breeding under grazing management to other socio-ecological benefits generated by equine farms is also highlighted. Both the high added value of mare milk and the socio-ecological benefits derived from pasture-based systems could be explored to improve the performance of equine farms located in arid and semi-arid areas or in regions with moderately harsh environmental conditions as equids have a strong adaptation capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study region: Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, North China Study focus: Sensible heat flux (H) quantifies the intensity of water evapotranspiration, making the factors influencing H pivotal to water consumption. North China's semi-arid grasslands are characterized by widespread grazing and strong wind conditions. Grazing strategy modifies surface air heat transfer resistance via vegetation and consequently alters H. Nevertheless, the majority of studies overlook the impact of the observed variables' time scale on H estimation. This paper employs a ''big-leaf'' model to estimate H, incorporating both grazing management strategy and data time scale, validated using the Bowen ratio, and attempted to analyze the factors that affect H. New hydrological insights for the region: Aerodynamic characteristics estimated from daily data typically exceed estimates derived from hourly data. The influence of surface radiative temperature and air temperature on H outweighs that of aerodynamic resistance, whereas aerodynamic resistance accounts for the disparity in estimating H between daily and hourly data. In grazing-prohibited grasslands, the daily H values estimated by the Big Leaf model closely match those obtained from the Bowen ratio. When estimating the hourly H value for grazing prohibited and grazing grasslands, the increase was 25.95 w/m2 and 52.27 w/m2 compared to the daily scale, respectively. For the estimation of water and heat fluxes across different regions, the temporal scale of input data is a pivotal factor.

The subject of this study was to understand how grazing and precipitation affect the carbon cycle of grassland ecosystem. The experiment was carried out in a desert steppe of Siziwang Banner, Inner Mongolia, China, and measured CO2 flux and abiotic factors twice a month during the growing season (July to October in 2016, May to October in 2017). The experiment used a completely randomized block design, involving four different stocking rate treatments [CK, no grazing, (0 sheep unit hm –2 half year–1), light stocking rate (LG, 0.93 sheep unit hm–2 half year–1), moderate stocking rate (MG, 1.82 sheep unit hm–2 half year–1) and heavy stocking rate (HG, 2.71 sheep unit hm–2 half year–1)] with three replicates, and four precipitation treatments [50% reduced precipitation (P1), natural precipitation (P2), 50% increased precipitation (P3) and 100% increased precipitation (P4)] were set up in each stocking rate treatment plot. Results indicated that increased precipitation treatments significantly increased soil water content (SWC) and soil respiration (Rs), and significantly reduced soil temperature (Ts), grazing treatments significantly reduced Ts, the interaction between precipitation and stocking rate had no significant impact on the above indicators; Rs increased with increasing precipitation in the order: P4 > P3 > P2 > P1, Rs exhibited the following order under different stocking rates: CK > LG > MG > HG. There was a strong positive correlation between Rs and SWC, and a negative relationship between Rs and Ts. Our results demonstrate that SWC is the dominant factor affecting Rs, as SWC explained 87.12% of the variation in Rs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial diversity in the fecal samples of Bactrian camels in Transbaikalia under various grazing management (free grazing (group I), mixed (group II), and stall housing (group III)) was revealed using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene variable regions. The microbial community of the fecal microbiota was found to be diverse and to depend on the camel grazing management. The most common phyla of the camel fecal microbiota were Bacillota and Bacteroidota. The phylum Verrucomicrobiota was a codominant in the fecal microbiota of groups I and II of animals, and Actinomycetota, in the feces of camels of group III. Changes in the fecal microbiota structure and taxonomic diversity occurred as camel grazing management and feeding conditions changed. Free grazing resulted in high diversity of the prokaryotic community in the fecal microbiota. In addition, differences in taxonomic composition depending on sex were found, which were in the abundance of taxa rather than in their presence or absence. The results contribute to the current understanding of the fecal microbiota of camels under different management conditions and provide evidence of the influence of nutrition on the fecal microbiota under different management conditions. Our results may be useful for addressing the issues of reproduction and conservation of the Transbaikal camel (Camelus bactrianus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free‐ranging livestock pose a threat to forest biodiversity, exerting a profound influence on the survival of several endangered species. The mountains of Southwest China represent a biodiversity hotspot enriched with pheasant species of global significance; however, the influence of free‐ranging livestock on the survival and population of forest pheasants remains unclear. We examined the impact of livestock on the habitat suitability of subalpine pheasants and the associated mechanism during the breeding season in Southwest China (forest with and without grazing) over 2 years (2018–2019). Artificial nest experiments monitored by infrared‐triggered cameras showed that the nest failure rate was 2.18 folds higher in livestock‐active areas, where livestock directly accounted for 26.09% of all nest predation events, compared with other areas. Small animal trapping and vegetation quadrat surveys showed a 46% lower abundance of ground invertebrates, a critical food resource for breeding pheasants and their chicks, in grazing areas than in grazing‐free areas. Thus, livestock grazing markedly reduces the habitat suitability of subalpine pheasants during the breeding season. These results highlight the impacts of grazing on endangered pheasant species and the underlying mechanisms, necessitating centralized livestock management in these protected areas from April to July, coupled with livelihood transformation initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bushrocks provide critical habitat for reptiles and are a common feature in agricultural landscapes. Recent advances in soil amelioration practices have triggered a resurgence in the large-scale removal of bushrock from commodity production regions. Rock removal practices have substantial impacts on biodiversity, particularly for range-restricted and rock-dependent reptile species. We discuss findings from several observational studies and natural experiments on the ecological role of bushrocks in agricultural landscapes to inform land management and restoration practices. We found that bushrocks were critical as overwintering retreats, and reptiles preferred higher elevation areas with minimal canopy cover. We found reptiles rapidly responded to bushrock restoration, with increases in abundance and richness of reptiles in rock addition plots compared to controls. Our research highlights the importance of bushrock habitat, and the removal of such habitat may have far-reaching consequences. Conservation of reptiles in agricultural landscapes requires appropriate management and retention of bushrock. We urge for greater protection of existing bushrock habitats and consideration of rock as a restoration tool to improve conservation outcomes for reptiles in agricultural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among options for atmospheric CO2 removal, sequestering soil organic carbon (SOC) via improved grazing management is a rare opportunity because it is scalable across millions of globally grazed acres, low cost, and has high technical potential. Decades of scientific research on grazing and SOC has failed to form a cohesive understanding of how grazing management affects SOC stocks and their distribution between particulate (POM) and mineral‐associated organic matter (MAOM)—characterized by different formation and stabilization pathways—across different climatic contexts. As we increasingly look to grazing management for SOC sequestration on grazinglands to bolster our climate change mitigation efforts, we need a clear and collective understanding of grazing management's impact on pathways of SOC change to inform on‐the‐ground management decisions. We set out to review the effects of grazing management on SOC through a unified plant ecophysiology and soil biogeochemistry conceptual framework, where elements such as productivity, input quality, soil mineral capacity, and climate variables such as aridity co‐govern SOC accumulation and distribution into POM and MAOM. To maximize applicability to grazingland managers, we discuss how common management levers that drive overall grazing pattern, including timing, intensity, duration, and frequency can be used to optimize mechanistic pathways of SOC sequestration. We discuss important research needs and measurement challenges, and highlight how our conceptual framework can inform more robust research with greater applicability for maximizing the use of grazing management to sequester SOC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grasslands cover a substantial portion of the earth's surface and agricultural land and is crucial for human well-being and livestock farming. Ranchers and grassland management authorities face challenges in effectively controlling herders' grazing behavior and grassland utilization due to underdeveloped infrastructure and poor communication in pastoral areas. Cloud-based grazing management and decision support systems (DSS) are needed to address this issue, promote sustainable grassland use, and preserve their ecosystem services. These systems should enable rapid and large-scale grassland growth and utilization monitoring, providing a basis for decision-making in managing grazing and grassland areas. In this context, this study contributes to the objectives of the EU LIFE IMAGINE project, aiming to develop a Web-GIS app for conserving and monitoring Umbria's grasslands and promoting more informed decisions for more sustainable livestock management. The app, called "Praterie" and developed in Google Earth Engine, utilizes historical Sentinel-2 satellite data and harmonic modeling of the EVI (Enhanced Vegetation Index) to estimate vegetation growth curves and maturity periods for the forthcoming vegetation cycle. The app is updated in quasi-real time and enables users to visualize estimates for the upcoming vegetation cycle, including the maximum greenness, the days remaining to the subsequent maturity period, the accuracy of the harmonic models, and the grassland greenness status in the previous 10 days. Even though future additional developments can improve the informative value of the Praterie app, this platform can contribute to optimizing livestock management and biodiversity conservation by providing timely and accurate data about grassland status and growth curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pasture persistence is a key determinant of the economic and environmental performance of pastoral animal production systems. Large and deep root systems that help resist summer water stress have been proposed as a relevant trait for vegetative persistence of perennial temperate forage species growing in subtropical climates or under future climatically challenging scenarios. In a previous study [Jauregui et al., 2017. Persistence of tall fescue in a subtropical environment: Tiller survival over summer in response to flowering control and nitrogen supply. Grass and Forage Science72, 454–466] we have shown that nitrogen fertilization and grazing management aimed at 'control flowering' increased the survival of tall fescue tillers during harsh summers in Uruguay (lat. 32°S). Here we assessed: (i) to what extent tiller survival is mediated by root system size in spring and (ii) what consequences tiller survival entails for root mass, depth and morphology the following autumn. In two field experiments, significant increases in tiller survival in response to nitrogen fertilization and grazing management (+60% and +80% in 2011/12 and 2012/13, respectively) were not related to concomitant effects on the size or depth of the root system in spring (p >.10). Even when six‐fold within‐treatment variation in root mass was observed, within‐treatment variation in summer tiller survival was little affected (<15%, p =.08). In turn, differences in tiller survival over summer affected little root system characteristics the following autumn. Therefore, we found scant support for the hypothesis that large and deep root systems contribute to survival of tall fescue tillers in this subtropical humid climate. Except for soils with less than 30 mm of plant available water holding capacity, summer water deficits did not induce severe tiller mortality in tall fescue in this climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The area adjacent to the milking parlor, accessible for grazing by lactating dairy cows (i.e., the grazing platform [GP]), can be limited on fragmented pasture-based dairy farms. Such farms, with a moderate overall farm stocking rate, typically have a much higher stocking rate of dairy cows on the GP. This study quantified the effects of farm fragmentation on milk and herbage production and profitability in a whole-farm systems-scale study over 3 yr (2017–2019). Four systems, each with an overall farm stocking rate of 2.5 cows/ha but with different grazing platform stocking rates (GPSR), were examined. The proportions of the overall farm area within the GP were 100%, 83%, 71%, and 63% in each of the 4 systems, respectively. Hence, the 4 systems had a GPSR of 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 cows/ha. The GP was used for grazing and silage (ensiled herbage) production, and the non-GP portion of each GPSR system was used solely for silage production. Concentrate supplementation per cow was the same across all GPSR systems; approximately 10% of the annual feed budget. All systems were compact spring-calving with 24 cows per system. We discovered a lower proportion of grazed herbage in the diet with higher GPSR. All silage produced on the non-GP areas was required to support higher GPSR on each of the systems. Annual herbage production and milk production per cow were not different between GPSR systems, resulting in similar milk production per hectare of the overall system area. The economic implications of different GPSR on fragmented farms were modeled in 2 scenarios: (1) quantifying the cost associated with different levels of farm area fragmentation; (2) investigating the optimum GPSR on fragmented pasture-based dairy farms, depending on variable criteria. A greater level of farm fragmentation lowered the profitability of pasture-based dairy production. Costs of production increased with higher GPSR and longer distances between GP and non-GP areas. At a fixed GP area, it was most profitable to increase GPSR up to 4 cows/ha on the GP when milk price was high, land rental price was low, and shorter distance existed between GP and non-GP areas.

Land degradation in communal rangelands poses significant challenges to environmental sustainability, agricultural productivity, and livelihoods in southern Africa. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of research trends, key contributors, thematic evolution, and collaborative networks in the field of land degradation in communal rangelands from 1997 to 2024. Utilizing data obtained from the Scopus database, we examined 66 publications to identify patterns in publication output, leading journals, influential articles, and prominent authors and institutions. The analysis demonstrates an overall increase in research output, with a notable surge in publications during the past decade, indicating a growing academic and policy interest in this field. Major themes identified include sustainable land management, restoration strategies, and the impacts of grazing management on ecosystem health. Networks showcasing co-authorship and keyword co-occurrence reveal robust collaborative connections among researchers and a concentrated focus on specific dominant themes. Consequently, these findings propose opportunities for expanding interdisciplinary research and exploring underrepresented areas. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape, offering insights to steer future studies and inform policy interventions aimed at mitigating land degradation and bolstering the resilience of communal rangelands in southern Africa.

Grazing is a main land use of natural grasslands in the world, which has both positive and negative impact on plant community structure and ecosystem functioning. However, the effects of long-term grazing management on the plant–soil system, in particular above- and belowground community characteristics, are still not well understood in alpine meadow community. In this study, we investigated the vegetation, roots, and soil properties under three management types (16 years of fencing since 2004-2020, moderate grazing and heavy grazing managements) in an alpine meadow on the Tibetan Plateau. The results showed that, compared with moderate grazing meadows, long-term fencing increased plant community cover, above- and belowground biomass, proportion of grass and litter but reduced forbs and soil bulk density, which caused the increases in soil organic carbon, total nitrogen and water content and the decreases in soil pH. However, heavy grazing led to opposite changes in proportion of grass, community biomass and soil physicochemical properties. The maximum of species richness and plant density appeared in moderate grazing meadows, supporting the intermediate disturbance hypothesis, and it can maintain above- and belowground biomass and soil physicochemical properties at medium level. Grazing increased the root: shoot ratio and caused root system shallow, which is consistent with the optimal partitioning hypothesis. Overall, our study suggested that moderate grazing is a more reasonable grazing management for sustainable development in alpine meadows of Tibetan Plateau, fencing could be an effective management strategy for vegetation restoration as well as for nutrient sequestration in degraded grasslands, but long-term fencing dose not benefit for biodiversity maintenance.

The skills that are necessary to act in a dynamic environment, and with unique work configurations, are mainly developed by professionals as they experience recurring or exceptional events during working activities. Farmers wishing to valorise natural vegetation to feed their herds therefore develop specific skills relating to their interaction with living beings and things - vegetation and animals - through their experiences with diverse seasons and years. This singular characteristic makes it difficult to de-contextualise, transpose and pragmatize the different types of knowledge mobilized (scientific, technical, and experiential knowledge). Understanding and representing the activity of professionals, in order that it might be developed, is an essential step in redesigning their training. In contributing to this issue, our article aims to formalize the pragmatic conceptualizations that organize grazing management, in order to design professional training. Based on a vocational didactic approach, we modeled the conceptual structures of a sample of breeders, characterized their diversity and their dynamics, and then confronted them with the reference knowledge transferred during a training system. In this way, we identified pragmatic concepts that professionals have in common, but which are often embedded in a network of different concepts, raising singular concerns and strategies. Our analysis also allowed us to observe, among professionals, the traces and difficulties in pragmatizing the reference knowledge relayed by development agents. Based on these results, we present a pedagogical experiment and its evolution over the course of a range of trainer experiences. These results open avenues for continued reflection on the articulation of collective training with tailor-made support for the professional development of each individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Grazing management frequently relies on forage availability as an indicator of performance. However, canopy structure and composition can play an important role in foraging behavior and intake in native grasslands. Here, we aim to (1) assess the effect of grazing management on herbage biomass, tussock cover, average canopy and inter‐tussock canopy height, and to (2) study the effect of these canopy structure components on short‐term intake rate (STIR) and patch selectivity of beef cattle, in a native grassland in the Campos region in southern Brazil. Ten 1000 m2 experimental units were built in five paddocks (two per paddock) managed with different herbage allowance (HA) treatments: four fixed year‐round HA (1 to 4 kg dry matter [DM]/kg live weight [LW]) and one variable HA (2 and 3 kg DM/kg LW during spring and the rest of the year, respectively). The experimental units were grazed individually with four heifers during 45 min, in two grazing cycles. Before each grazing session, we assessed the total herbage mass, average and inter‐tussock canopy height, and tussock cover. During the 45‐min grazing sessions, we evaluated the STIR (g DM/kg LW0.75/min) and grazing time in tussock and inter‐tussock strata. Increasing the HA increased the total herbage mass, canopy height and tussock cover. The STIR was maximized with herbage mass of 2200 kg DM/ha and a tussock cover of ~7%, canopy structures related with moderate grazing intensities (i.e., 2 and 3 kg DM/kg LW), which increased the selection opportunity by herbivores. Canopy structures associated with heavy (1 kg DM/kg LW) and lenient grazing intensity (4 kg DM/kg LW) determined linear decreases of 50% in STIR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grazing exclusion (GE) is an effective measure for restoring degraded grassland ecosystems. However, the effect of GE on methane (CH4) uptake and production remains unclear in dominant bacterial taxa, main metabolic pathways, and drivers of these pathways. This study aimed to determine CH4 flux in alpine meadow soil using the chamber method. The in situ composition of soil aerobic CH4-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) and CH4-producing archaea (MPA) as well as the relative abundance of their functional genes were analyzed in grazed and nongrazed (6 years) alpine meadows using metagenomic methods. The results revealed that CH4 fluxes in grazed and nongrazed plots were -34.10 and -22.82 µg‧m-2‧h-1, respectively. Overall, 23 and 10 species of Types I and II MOB were identified, respectively. Type II MOB comprised the dominant bacteria involved in CH4 uptake, with Methylocystis constituting the dominant taxa. With regard to MPA, 12 species were identified in grazed meadows and 3 in nongrazed meadows, with Methanobrevibacter constituting the dominant taxa. GE decreased the diversity of MPA but increased the relative abundance of dominated species Methanobrevibacter millerae from 1.47 to 4.69%. The proportions of type I MOB, type II MOB, and MPA that were considerably affected by vegetation and soil factors were 68.42, 21.05, and 10.53%, respectively. Furthermore, the structural equation models revealed that soil factors (available phosphorus, bulk density, and moisture) significantly affected CH4 flux more than vegetation factors (grass species number, grass aboveground biomass, grass root biomass, and litter biomass). CH4 flux was mainly regulated by serine and acetate pathways. The serine pathway was driven by soil factors (0.84, p < 0.001), whereas the acetate pathway was mainly driven by vegetation (-0.39, p < 0.05) and soil factors (0.25, p < 0.05). In conclusion, our findings revealed that alpine meadow soil is a CH4 sink. However, GE reduces the CH4 sink potential by altering vegetation structure and soil properties, especially soil physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the central problems in ecology is how to scale from small‐scale observations and experiments to large‐scale patterns and processes. One approach to such upscaling is to use dynamic simulation models, but their application to large scales relevant for management is limited by computational costs, and their outputs are difficult to analyse without a systematic strategy. Our general objective is to propose such a strategy. The idea is to approximate the dynamics of detailed simulation models through a set of states, external drivers, and transition matrices, and then use Markov chain and network analysis of the resulting transition matrices to gain insights into the dynamics of the underlying detailed model. We used the individual‐based model COIRON, which simulates the dynamics of semiarid grass steppes in Patagonia (Argentina) under alternative grazing management, as example. Our specific objectives are to identify pathways of degradation and rehabilitation, as well as critical grazing thresholds and early‐warning vegetation states to guide sustainable grazing management in these steppes. Our results indicate nonlinear effects of stocking rate and grazing season on steppe dynamics. Markov chain analysis suggests benefits of seasonal over continuous grazing at intermediate stocking rates, and network analysis of recovery and degradation trajectories shows that intermediate stocking rates maximize differences between grazing seasons. Finally, our analysis identified specific vegetation states as early warning signals that indicate a high risk of irreversible vegetation changes. Patagonian grass steppes should ideally be managed with multi‐paddock grazing at moderate stocking rates around 0.5 sheep ha−1. The transition matrices summarize the relevant key features of the detailed model for larger scales, and applying Markov and network theory provides a systematic strategy to analyse its dynamics to respond to biological questions, both are often difficult to obtain by direct analysis of the detailed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grazing is the de facto method of habitat management used in much of the Nebraska Sandhills. Ranchers use a variety of grazing systems, and our goal was to evaluate the effects of systems on grassland birds. We estimated the species richness and density of grassland birds for three grazing systems used on private ranches: long, medium, and short duration grazing systems. We observed sixty species, and the grazing system with pastures utilizing long duration grazing periods had the highest estimates of species richness as well as the most heterogeneous habitat structure. Differences in species richness among systems were most pronounced in years of limited precipitation. Together, grasshopper sparrows (Ammodramus savannarum), western meadowlarks (Sturnella neglecta), and brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) accounted for 72% of our observations. We used a model comparison approach to determine the effects of habitat on the densities of six species. Densities of grasshopper sparrows and mourning doves showed effects of the grazing system. More species had higher densities in short duration, rotational systems than other grazing systems. However, species of grassland birds showed responses to a variety of cover types and habitat structures depending on life history needs. Regardless of the grazing system used, managers can use grazing and other tools such as prescribed burning to maintain habitat heterogeneity to support diverse bird communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The area adjacent to the milking parlor, accessible for grazing by lactating dairy cows (i.e., the grazing platform [GP]), can be limited on fragmented pasture-based dairy farms. Such farms, with a moderate overall farm stocking rate, typically have a much higher stocking rate of dairy cows on the GP. This study quantified the effects of farm fragmentation on milk and herbage production and profitability in a whole-farm systems-scale study over 3 yr (2017–2019). Four systems, each with an overall farm stocking rate of 2.5 cows/ha but with different grazing platform stocking rates (GPSR), were examined. The proportions of the overall farm area within the GP were 100%, 83%, 71%, and 63% in each of the 4 systems, respectively. Hence, the 4 systems had a GPSR of 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 cows/ha. The GP was used for grazing and silage (ensiled herbage) production, and the non-GP portion of each GPSR system was used solely for silage production. Concentrate supplementation per cow was the same across all GPSR systems; approximately 10% of the annual feed budget. All systems were compact spring-calving with 24 cows per system. We discovered a lower proportion of grazed herbage in the diet with higher GPSR. All silage produced on the non-GP areas was required to support higher GPSR on each of the systems. Annual herbage production and milk production per cow were not different between GPSR systems, resulting in similar milk production per hectare of the overall system area. The economic implications of different GPSR on fragmented farms were modeled in 2 scenarios: (1) quantifying the cost associated with different levels of farm area fragmentation; (2) investigating the optimum GPSR on fragmented pasture-based dairy farms, depending on variable criteria. A greater level of farm fragmentation lowered the profitability of pasture-based dairy production. Costs of production increased with higher GPSR and longer distances between GP and non-GP areas. At a fixed GP area, it was most profitable to increase GPSR up to 4 cows/ha on the GP when milk price was high, land rental price was low, and shorter distance existed between GP and non-GP areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate estimation of aboveground net herbaceous production (ANHP) is crucial in rangeland management and monitoring. Remote and rural rangelands typically lack direct observation infrastructure, making satellite-derived methods essential. When ground data are available, a simple and effective way to estimate ANHP from satellites is to derive the empirical relationship between ANHP and plant-absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR), which can be estimated from the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). While there is some evidence that this relationship will differ across rangeland vegetation types, it is unclear whether this relationship will change across grazing management regimes. This study aimed to assess the impact of grazing management on the relationship between ground-observed ANHP and satellite-derived APAR, considering variations in plant communities across ecological sites in the shortgrass steppe of northeastern Colorado. Additionally, we compared satellite-predicted biomass production from the process-based Rangeland Analysis Platform (RAP) model to our empirical APAR-based model. We found that APAR could be used to predict ANHP in the shortgrass steppe, with the relationship being influenced by ecosite characteristics rather than grazing management practices. For each unit of added APAR (MJ m−2 day−1), ANHP increased by 9.39 kg ha−1, and ecosites with taller structured herbaceous vegetation produced, on average, 3.92–5.71 kg ha−1 more ANHP per unit APAR than an ecosite dominated by shorter vegetation. This was likely due to the increased allocation of plant resources aboveground for C3 mid-grasses in taller structured ecosites compared to the C4 short-grasses that dominate the shorter structured ecosites. Moreover, we found that our locally calibrated empirical model generally performed better than the continentally calibrated process-based RAP model, though RAP performed reasonably well for the dominant ecosite. For our empirical models, R2 values varied by ecosite ranging from 0.49 to 0.67, while RAP R2 values ranged from 0.07 to 0.4. Managers in the shortgrass steppe can use satellites to estimate herbaceous production even without detailed information on short-term grazing management practices. The results from our study underscore the importance of understanding plant community composition for enhancing the accuracy of remotely sensed predictions of ANHP.

This review discusses the scientific evidence that supports the nutritional value of mare milk and how its properties are essentially achieved when mares are managed under grazing conditions. Mare milk’s similarity with the chemical composition of human milk makes this food and its derived products not only suitable for human consumption but also an interesting food regarding human health. The contribution of horse breeding under grazing management to other socio-ecological benefits generated by equine farms is also highlighted. Both the high added value of mare milk and the socio-ecological benefits derived from pasture-based systems could be explored to improve the performance of equine farms located in arid and semi-arid areas or in regions with moderately harsh environmental conditions as equids have a strong adaptation capacity.

There has been an increased focus on new technologies to monitor habitat use and behaviour of cattle to develop a more sustainable livestock grazing system without compromising animal welfare. One of the currently used methods for monitoring cattle behaviour is tri-axial accelerometer data from systems such as virtual fencing technology or bespoke monitoring technology. Collection and transmission of high-frequency accelerometer and GNSS data is a major energy cost, and quickly drains the battery in contemporary virtual fencing systems, making it unsuitable for long-term monitoring. In this paper, we explore the possibility of determining habitat preference and habitat utilisation patterns in cattle using low-frequency activity and location data. We achieve this by (1) calculating habitat selection ratios, (2) determining daily activity patterns, and (3) based on those, inferring grazing and resting sites in a group of cattle wearing virtual fencing collars in a coastal setting with grey, wooded, and decalcified dunes, humid dune slacks, and salt meadows. We found that GNSS data, and a measure of activity, combined with accurate mapping of habitats can be an effective tool in assessing habitat preference. The animals preferred salt meadows over the other habitats, with wooded dunes and humid dune slacks being the least preferred. We were able to identify daily patterns in activity. By comparing general trends in activity levels to the existing literature, and using a Gaussian mixture model, it was possible to infer resting and grazing behaviour in the different habitats. According to our inference of behaviour the herd predominantly used the salt meadows for resting and ruminating. The approach used in this study allowed us to use GNSS location data and activity data and combine it with accurate habitat mapping to assess habitat preference and habitat utilisation patterns, which can be an important tool for guiding management decisions.

The research on the significant toxic weed Oxytropis glabra, which adversely affects the grazing industry and the ecological integrity of natural grasslands in the arid and semi-arid regions of northern China, aims to delineate its potential distribution amidst changing climate conditions. This analysis involves both current conditions (1970–2000) and future projections (2050s and 2070s) under four climate scenarios using an R-optimized MaxEnt model. The results indicate that the distribution of O. glabra was primarily influenced by the temperature of the coldest quarter (bio11, ranging from −12.04 to −0.07 °C), precipitation of the coldest quarter (bio19, 0 to 15.17 mm), and precipitation of the warmest quarter (bio18, 0 to 269.50 mm). Currently, the weed predominantly occupies parts of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia, and Tibet. Projections indicate that, across four future climate scenarios, the area of suitable habitats for O. glabra is expected to expand and shift toward higher latitudes and elevations. The research provides valuable information and a theoretical foundation for the management of O. glabra, alongside advancing grassland ecological research and grazing practices.