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The semi-desert rangeland of Uzbekistan, characterized by gypseous and sandy soils, undergo significant changes due to grazing of different intensities. This study examines the water deficit characteristics of key plant species in these rangelands and focuses on how different grazing pressures affect plant water stress and overall ecosystem health. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate plant water potential parameters in fields with initial, low, medium and high grazing intensity. Our findings suggest that increased grazing intensity exacerbates plant water deficits, particularly in areas with sandy soils where water retention is inherently low. In contrast, gypseous soils showed higher resistance to grazing-induced water stress, but significant degradation was still observed under high grazing. These results highlight the critical need for sustainable grazing practices to mitigate adverse effects on plant water dynamics and ensure the long-term viability of these semi-desert ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rangelands represent about 25% of the Earth's land surface but are under severe pressure. Rangeland degradation is a gradually increasing global environmental problem, resulting in temporary or permanent loss of ecosystem functions. Ecological rangeland studies aim to determine the productivity of rangelands as well as the severity of their degradation. Rigorous in situ assessments comprising visual identification of plant species are required as such assessments are perceived to be the most accurate way of monitoring rangeland degradation. However, in situ assessments are expensive and time-consuming exercises, especially when carried out over large areas. In situ assessments are also limited to areas that are accessible. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of multispectral (MS) and hyperspectral (HS) remotely sensed, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based data and machine learning (random forest) methods to differentiate between 15 dominant Nama Karoo plant species to aid ecological impact surveys. The results showed that MS imagery is unsuitable, as classification accuracies were generally low (37.5%). In contrast, much higher classification accuracies (>70%) were achieved when the HS imagery was used. The narrow bands between 398 and 430 nanometres (nm) were found to be vital for discriminating between shrub and grass species. Using in situ Analytical Spectral Device (ASD) spectroscopic data, additional important wavebands between 350 and 400 nm were identified, which are not covered by either the MS or HS remotely sensed data. Using feature selection methods, 12 key wavelengths were identified for discriminating among the plant species with accuracies exceeding 90%. Reducing the dimensionality of the ASD data set to the 12 key bands increased classification accuracies from 84.8% (all bands) to 91.7% (12 bands). The methodology developed in this study can potentially be used to carry out UAV-based ecological assessments over large and inaccessible areas typical of Karoo rangelands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Overgrazing can have detrimental effects on the physical properties of soil in rangelands. Among the remedial methods for degraded soils, increasing rangeland fertility and striving to improve soil structure stability, reducing livestock trampling through grazing restrictions, are highlighted. Therefore, exclosure is one of the simplest remedial techniques, which involves preventing livestock access to all or part of a rangeland for one or more consecutive years. Thus, research on the effects of exclosure on the physical and chemical properties of soil in various regions helps determine the importance of this practice in different ecosystems. Based on existing studies, converting grazed lands into exclosures appears to be a suitable option for rehabilitating degraded soils. Establishing exclosures in degraded lands is an effective method for revitalizing degraded soils. This research examines how exclosures affect the physicochemical properties of degraded soils in the Sufikam rangelands in the northern part of Golestan Province. Material and Methods: In this study, soil samples were collected from 60 points in both degraded exclosure rangelands and natural rangelands. Subsequently, soil characteristics including organic matter, soil aggregate stability, electrical conductivity, acidity, SAR, ESP, and the percentage of clay, sand, and silt were measured. After determining and calculating the mentioned parameters, the normality of the data was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. To compare the exclosures and natural rangeland, t-test and Wilcoxon were employed in the R environment. Results and Discussion: The results indicate differences in electrical conductivity, acidity, organic matter, particle stability, SAR, and ESP concentrations between the two study areas. The clay content in the exclosures area (25.19) was higher than in the natural (22.79), and the sand content in the natural rangeland (32.62) was significantly higher than in the exclosures (29.43). The clay content in the exclosure area has increased compared to the natural area, while the sand content in the natural area was significantly higher than in the exclosure area. The Pearson correlation between soil parameters in the exclosure area showed that the correlation between organic matter and soil aggregate stability (0.71), as well as between pH, EC, SAR, and ESP (0.84, 0.92) was positive. There was a negative correlation between organic matter and soil aggregate stability with pH (-0.93, -0.68), EC, SAR, and ESP (-0.25,-0.31). Conclusion: The use of exclosures can contribute to the stability of soil particles and improve land performance. Soil stability is a crucial feature in maintaining desirable agricultural practices and achieving sustainable land performance. This study demonstrates that the use of exclosures as a suitable and effective management practice can enhance rangeland health and improve the physicochemical properties of the soil. Therefore, it is essential to consider exclosure treatment as a key component in the design and implementation of natural resource management plans. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of grazing exclosure in rangelands leads to positive changes in soil properties and contributes to the increase in vegetation cover and the rehabilitation of the rangeland ecosystem. Therefore, grazing exclosure is presented as an effective management method for rehabilitating degraded soils. Implementing grazing exclosure programs alongside other corrective measures, such as planting suitable rangeland species, can increase soil stability and fertility and contribute to the natural vegetation restoration. Consequently, in rangeland management planning, the use of grazing exclosure as a suitable and cost-effective approach should be considered.

Introduction: Overgrazing can have detrimental effects on the physical properties of soil in rangelands. Among the remedial methods for degraded soils, increasing rangeland fertility and striving to improve soil structure stability, reducing livestock trampling through grazing restrictions, are highlighted. Therefore, exclosure is one of the simplest remedial techniques, which involves preventing livestock access to all or part of a rangeland for one or more consecutive years. Thus, research on the effects of exclosure on the physical and chemical properties of soil in various regions helps determine the importance of this practice in different ecosystems. Based on existing studies, converting grazed lands into exclosures appears to be a suitable option for rehabilitating degraded soils. Establishing exclosures in degraded lands is an effective method for revitalizing degraded soils. This research examines how exclosures affect the physicochemical properties of degraded soils in the Sufikam rangelands in the northern part of Golestan Province. Material and Methods: In this study, soil samples were collected from 60 points in both degraded exclosure rangelands and natural rangelands. Subsequently, soil characteristics including organic matter, soil aggregate stability, electrical conductivity, acidity, SAR, ESP, and the percentage of clay, sand, and silt were measured. After determining and calculating the mentioned parameters, the normality of the data was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. To compare the exclosures and natural rangeland, t-test and Wilcoxon were employed in the R environment. Results and Discussion: The results indicate differences in electrical conductivity, acidity, organic matter, particle stability, SAR, and ESP concentrations between the two study areas. The clay content in the exclosures area (25.19) was higher than in the natural (22.79), and the sand content in the natural rangeland (32.62) was significantly higher than in the exclosures (29.43). The clay content in the exclosure area has increased compared to the natural area, while the sand content in the natural area was significantly higher than in the exclosure area. The Pearson correlation between soil parameters in the exclosure area showed that the correlation between organic matter and soil aggregate stability (0.71), as well as between pH, EC, SAR, and ESP (0.84, 0.92) was positive. There was a negative correlation between organic matter and soil aggregate stability with pH (-0.93, -0.68), EC, SAR, and ESP (-0.25,-0.31). Conclusion: The use of exclosures can contribute to the stability of soil particles and improve land performance. Soil stability is a crucial feature in maintaining desirable agricultural practices and achieving sustainable land performance. This study demonstrates that the use of exclosures as a suitable and effective management practice can enhance rangeland health and improve the physicochemical properties of the soil. Therefore, it is essential to consider exclosure treatment as a key component in the design and implementation of natural resource management plans. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of grazing exclosure in rangelands leads to positive changes in soil properties and contributes to the increase in vegetation cover and the rehabilitation of the rangeland ecosystem. Therefore, grazing exclosure is presented as an effective management method for rehabilitating degraded soils. Implementing grazing exclosure programs alongside other corrective measures, such as planting suitable rangeland species, can increase soil stability and fertility and contribute to the natural vegetation restoration. Consequently, in rangeland management planning, the use of grazing exclosure as a suitable and cost-effective approach should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lands of the world covered with grass or fodder crops that are used to feed the animal in any way of feeding without exploiting that land in the cultivation of other crops for humans because the cultivation of this land with field crops requires soil service operations to be prepared for cultivation and that such a process leads to the gradual eradication of natural plants, pasture grasses and grasses growing in that land. Rangelands are the main source of the necessary fodder resources for livestock, which in turn convert unpalatable materials by man into animal products of high nutritional value with their amino acids necessary for the human body. These rangelands may be cultivated fields or lands covered with mostly green plants belonging to the falconry and legumes and used in grazing animals or feeding them in any of the different feeding methods. It is known that each pasture has an energy called the pasture load, which is the ability of the pasture to support the largest number of animals so that we get the largest animal yield without damage or degradation of the pasture's plants or soil. The United Nations at the Desertification Conference has developed critical numbers to identify the extent of animal pressure on the land. These numbers are an animal unit (29) per five hectares in dry areas and an animal unit per hectare in semi-arid areas. Otherwise, the pasture and its soil will be degraded, and the load of the pasture is affected by many factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; sage‐grouse) populations in the western United States have declined, necessitating conservation efforts. The United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service and livestock producers implemented the Sage Grouse Initiative (SGI) to improve sage‐grouse habitat using regional‐specific management actions such as rotational grazing. We assessed the effect of SGI grazing management, the influence of brood female and chick morphometric traits, and multiple environmental and anthropogenic disturbance factors on chick mortality risk in a sage‐grouse population in central Montana, USA, from 2011–2019. We used a Kaplan‐Meier survival function to evaluate chick survival, Cox proportional hazards models to evaluate chick mortality risk as a function of brood female and chick morphometric traits, and the Andersen‐Gill formulation of the Cox proportional hazards model to assess the effects of time‐dependent habitat characteristics on chick mortality risk. Survival to 45 days post‐hatch for 510 chicks varied annually from 0.26 ± 0.07 (SE) to 0.69 ± 0.07. The 45‐day survival rate for all years combined was 0.51 ± 0.03. Chick mortality risk was not affected by changes in livestock grazing management implemented through the SGI grazing program. Brood female age and body condition, sex of chicks, vegetation, and anthropogenic variables were also unassociated with chick mortality risk. There were small protective effects of chick mass adjusted for age and mean minimum monthly temperature; greater chick mass and lower monthly temperatures correlated with reduced mortality risk. Overall, our study suggests the SGI grazing program does not confer additional benefits to sage‐grouse chicks beyond existing grazing practices. Incentivizing grazing practices that adhere to fundamental principles of rangeland ecology and maintain intact rangelands may be more effective than specific prescribed grazing systems for sage‐grouse conservation in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women's contributions to rangeland cultivation in Tunisia and the effects of climate change upon their livelihoods are both policy blind spots. To make women's contributions to rangeland cultivation visible and to provide policy inputs based on women's needs and priorities into the reforms currently being made in the pastoral code in Tunisia, we conducted fieldwork in three governorates. We conducted focus groups and interviews with 289 individuals. We found that men and women are negatively affected by rangeland degradation and water scarcity, but women are additionally disadvantaged by their inability to own land and access credit and by drought mitigation and rangeland rehabilitation training that only target men. Women are involved in livestock grazing and rearing activities to a greater extent than is assumed in policy circles but in different ways than the men from the same households and communities. Understanding how women use rangelands is a necessary first step to ensuring that they benefit from rangeland management. Women's growing involvement in livestock rearing and agricultural production must be supported with commensurate social and economic policy interventions. Providing all farmers with appropriate support to optimize rangeland use is particularly urgent in the context of resource degradation accelerated by climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sustainable rangeland management balances production and conservation. While a broad literature describesthe conservation benefits of prescribed fire, benefits for livestock production have emerged more slowly. Mineral nutrition is important for livestock health and performance, but the impact of prescribed fire on mineral concentration of forages, especially in the northern US Great Plains, remains unknown. Aims: We investigated how burning affects the mineral concentration of forage early and late in the growing season. Methods: Data were collected on mixed-grass prairie in south-central North Dakota, USA. Vegetation was clipped from recently burned, 1 year post-fire, 2 years post-fire, and not-yet-burned patches at the same sampling points in spring and late summer. Samples were analysed for calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc concentration. Key results: Burning increased forage mineral concentration across most minerals. Phosphorous, potassium, copper and zinc were higher in burned areas in late spring and summer; calcium, magnesium and manganese were only higher during the late summer; Late-season iron levels increased with time since fire. Conclusions: Prescribed fire has a positive effect on forage mineral content. Implications: Prescribed fire has the potential to reduce mineral supplementation costs and improve cow performance. Prescribed fire has a positive effect on forage mineral content and has the potential to reduce mineral supplementation costs and improve cow performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the basic strategies to reduce vulnerability in social systems facing fluctuations or climate change is to increase the resilience of communities to the disturbance and turmoil created in ecological systems. The aim of this study was to investigate multi-level resilience based on social heterogeneity under climate fluctuations in Nodooshan watershed of Yazd province. The survey method and the questionnaire were used to determine the resilience of local beneficiaries. The sample size was calculated using the Cochran sampling formula, and 102 people were selected by random sampling method from 6 villages in Nodooshan watershed. In order to determine the degree of resilience of users in Nodooshan watershed, social network analysis (SNA) was used by the full network method in three ties of social capital (trust, collaboration, and information exchange). The result of the highest effect size in the collaboration network of Nodoushan watershed beneficiaries is 57.75, in the trust network is 45.41 and in the information exchange network is 44.17. Findings show that social capital has led to more resilience of beneficiaries in drought conditions, and the rate of resilience in villages that are more exposed to drought is higher than in villages less exposed to drought. However, the results, in general, show the unfavorable situation of beneficiaries in terms of social capital. In addition, the effect of social network metrics on resilience in the face of climate change in different layers of social heterogeneity, as well as the structure of the exploitation system, is distinct. As a result, developing trust-building programs that address priority issues, resolving people's conflicts through increased and established inter-sectoral communication, and implementing multilevel governance are strongly advised. Therefore, by exploiting these results, planners and policymakers can help and plan to improve the resilience of rural communities faced with drought, self-reliance, and rural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, rangeland degradation is a serious environmental problem, especially in pastoral and semi-pastoral areas that are constantly shrinking. Ethiopian pastoralists are highly affected like other parts of Africa due to climate change and other associated environmental problems. Hence, rangeland degradation is considered as a major obstacle to the pastoralist economy in Ethiopia. This review analyzes rangeland degradation, its causes, effects, and management practices in Ethiopia. This review paper has collected data mostly from published and unpublished documents and analyzed its connection with the contemporary Ethiopian context. The main causes of rangeland degradation are climate change, overgrazing, bush encroachment, population pressure, drought, government policies, encroachment on rain-fed agriculture, and the demise of traditional resource management institutions. Rangeland degradation causes significant losses in biodiversity, water potential, soil condition, animal performance, domestic animal husbandry, and community poverty. Despite these implications, the adoption of alternative recovery strategies in the country is woefully inadequate and needs much attention in turning policies and proclamations into practical ones. Ethiopia's Rangeland is economically, socially, and politically marginalized, and the region urgently needs a significant increase in investment and strengthened political support for sustainable land management to address the rangeland degradation issues.

Rangelands represent about 25% of the Earth’s land surface but are under severe pressure. Rangeland degradation is a gradually increasing global environmental problem, resulting in temporary or permanent loss of ecosystem functions. Ecological rangeland studies aim to determine the productivity of rangelands as well as the severity of their degradation. Rigorous in situ assessments comprising visual identification of plant species are required as such assessments are perceived to be the most accurate way of monitoring rangeland degradation. However, in situ assessments are expensive and time-consuming exercises, especially when carried out over large areas. In situ assessments are also limited to areas that are accessible. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of multispectral (MS) and hyperspectral (HS) remotely sensed, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based data and machine learning (random forest) methods to differentiate between 15 dominant Nama Karoo plant species to aid ecological impact surveys. The results showed that MS imagery is unsuitable, as classification accuracies were generally low (37.5%). In contrast, much higher classification accuracies (>70%) were achieved when the HS imagery was used. The narrow bands between 398 and 430 nanometres (nm) were found to be vital for discriminating between shrub and grass species. Using in situ Analytical Spectral Device (ASD) spectroscopic data, additional important wavebands between 350 and 400 nm were identified, which are not covered by either the MS or HS remotely sensed data. Using feature selection methods, 12 key wavelengths were identified for discriminating among the plant species with accuracies exceeding 90%. Reducing the dimensionality of the ASD data set to the 12 key bands increased classification accuracies from 84.8% (all bands) to 91.7% (12 bands). The methodology developed in this study can potentially be used to carry out UAV-based ecological assessments over large and inaccessible areas typical of Karoo rangelands.

Background and objective: The monitoring and evaluation rangelands provides the necessary information for the essential planning of rangeland management. As a result, it prevents the destruction of rangelands and water and soil conservation. This research aims to prepare a continuous database of vegetation and soil indicators in rangelands and monitor their changes, determine the relationship between vegetation indicators and climatic factors, determine the trend and intensity of changes in different managements, and provide information for calculating the long-term capacity of rangelands. Methodology: For this study, the Asbchar site was selected in the rangelands of the Baladeh region in Mazandaran province and was evaluated and monitored for five years (2017-2021). In order to evaluate the indicators of vegetation cover, three transects of 100 meters were placed at a distance of 50 meters from each other. Vegetation and soil factors were measured. Vegetation factors included canopy cover, density and production of plant species, litter, rangeland condition and trend. Soil factors include pH, E.C., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, organic matter, soil bulk density and soil texture. Ten plots of 1m2 were placed in each transect, and a total of 30 plots were placed in exclosure and grazed areas. The crown cover of any plant species with the method of measuring the crown surface, the density by counting the number of species, the production by cutting and weighing, and the percentage of stone and gravel cover, litter, and bare soil were also measured in the plots. Data testing was done in Minitab16 software. Results: The analysis of variance results has shown a significant difference between most vegetation and soil factors in different years. The comparison of the averages of vegetation and soil factors investigated in different years shows that the highest average percentage of the total cover was related to the exclosure region. The highest average value was related to 2010, 2021 and 2019, respectively, and the lowest was the year 2017. The correlation between the total cover of the exclosure region with the total production, the percentage of nitrogen inside and outside the plant, the amount of potassium outside the plant, the annual rainfall, the rainfall of the growing season and the rainfall of autumn and winter seasons in exclosure region is significant. Also, the correlation between total production and annual rainfall, rainfall in the growing season and rainfall in autumn and winter seasons is significant. The correlation between total cover with total production, nitrogen percentage under plants, annual rainfall, growing season rainfall and autumn and winter rainfall in the grazed area is significant. Also, the correlation between total production with rainfall in the growing season and rainfall in the autumn and winter seasons is significant. The step-by-step regression results showed that climatic factors such as growing season rainfall, total fall and winter rainfall, and soil factors such as E.C., pH, % O.M. and %N were used to predict the total cover and production. Conclusion: The results of this research show a significant difference between the total crown cover, production and density of species during five years. Also, there is a significant difference between the exclosure and grazed areas in terms of all the factors examined in this research. The percentage of coverage, production and density of the perennial grasses and forbs in the exclosure region was higher than in the grazed region. The research results over five years showed that when autumn and winter rainfall and total rainfall and rainfall in the growing season were greater, an increasing trend was also seen in vegetation characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clearing of woodlands is used by graziers to promote pasture production, even though understanding of impacts of clearing on native fauna is lacking. We evaluate impacts of clearing on biodiversity by comparing invertebrates associated with ground-layer vegetation of cleared woodlands (grasslands) to that of nearby uncleared woodlands. Two replicates of grasslands consisting of pastures dominated by introduced grasses were compared with two woodlands at each of four locations. The adjacent riparian forest to each grassland and woodland site allowed evaluation of the effect of woodland clearing on the adjacent riparian zone. All habitats were grazed. Invertebrates of ground-layer vegetation were sampled using three suction subsamples of 1m2 at each site. Grasslands had significantly lower order richness and abundance of herbivores, pollinators and macroinvertebrates (food for birds) than the woodlands, whereas the riparian forests closely resembled each other in all metrics. Invertebrate assemblages of grasslands also differed significantly from those of the woodlands. BEST analysis showed that groundcover and leaf-litter percentage cover correlated strongest with invertebrate composition. This study has demonstrated that grazing management relying on clearing of fertile grassy woodlands of the rangelands of Central Queensland alters invertebrate diversity and assemblage. Thus, tree clearing not only leads to biodiversity losses in the canopy layer, but also in the ground-layer vegetation. Implications for insect conservation: Pastoralists have the capacity to improve outcomes for invertebrate biodiversity by maintaining groundcover (ground-layer vegetation and litter cover) above 80%, by encouraging native pastures over introduced species such as Buffel Grass and by retaining native woodlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract. Intraspecific variation in plants is a major ecological mechanism whose local determinants are still poorly understood. In particular, the relationship between this variation and human practices may be key to understanding human–nature relationships. We argue that it is necessary to consider how human practices both influence and depend on the phenotypic variability of species of interest. Arnica montana (arnica) is a good model to study the complex interactions between human actions and plant phenotype, as (i) its ecological niche is shaped by human management actions and (ii) its variability has consequences for harvesters. Using a functional trait approach, we examined feedback loops linking management actions, plant phenotype and harvesting practices. In 27 sites in southeastern France, we measured vegetative and reproductive functional traits of arnica of interest for harvesters, and recorded management actions (grazing; mowing) and ecological variables (including height of surrounding vegetation and tree cover). We examined their effects on plant traits with linear mixed models and used path analysis to test if the effects of human management on traits are mediated by the height of surrounding vegetation. Management actions affected functional traits of arnica. Biomass removal practices (grazing, mowing) were associated with smaller plants producing smaller leaves with reduced specific leaf area. We uncovered the core role of the height of surrounding vegetation in determining this phenotype. Tree cover was associated with reduced flowering. The observed intraspecific variation in response to management actions differentially impacts the two main harvesting practices. Flower-head harvesting depends on reproductive traits that are not impacted by mowing (which is done in winter) but adversely affected by tree cover. In contrast, traits associated with large biomass under tree cover or with high surrounding vegetation are favourable for whole-plant harvesters. Our trait-based approach unveiled clear links between management actions and plant phenotype, with impacts on both vegetative and reproductive traits. These changes induced by management also affect the practices of harvesters. We thus demonstrated a feedback loop between human actions and plant phenotype and provided a novel perspective on human-related causes and consequences of plant intraspecific variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Question: Although leaf biomechanical properties have been identified as critical traits for plant‐herbivore interactions, their responses to grazing pressure have been poorly investigated. Intensification of rangeland management, associated with fertilization and an increase in grazing pressure, has been shown to favour fast‐growing species that can compensate for biomass losses due to grazing. According to the postulated trade‐off between resource acquisition and defence, it is often expected that acquisitive traits should be associated with low leaf mechanical resistance. Here we investigated the responses of two leaf biomechanical traits, and their underlying traits, to management intensification. Location: We used a long‐term experiment in a rangeland located in the Mediterranean region of Southern France, in which three treatments corresponding to different fertilizer inputs and sheep grazing pressures were established. Methods: We sampled 24 abundant graminoid and forb species. The responses of work to shear and force to tear to the treatments were tested together with those of growth‐related leaf traits (leaf mass per area, dry matter content). To better understand the observed patterns, we tested whether the difference between species' leaf biomechanics could be explained by morpho‐anatomical characteristics such as leaf thickness and density. Results: Consistent with the acquisition–defence trade‐off hypothesis, we found that graminoids from fertilized and intensely grazed areas had lower leaf resistance than those in ungrazed areas. However, no difference in leaf biomechanics was found in forbs despite a significant decrease in leaf mass per area and leaf dry matter content with management intensification. Consistent with this, we found no significant effect of morpho‐anatomical traits on either biomechanical trait in forbs. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the observed responses in graminoids result from phenotypic constraints between resource acquisition and biomechanical defence. However, these phenotypic constraints appeared to be released in forbs, questioning the idea of a universal relationship between these two functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Shrub encroachment is a major challenge for livestock and wildlife management in semi‐arid savannas. Shrub removal by land managers is widespread, but the long‐term effects on vegetation structure and composition, which determine carrying capacity for herbivores, are poorly documented. This study aims to examine the effects of selective shrub removal to guide vegetation management in key land uses of semi‐arid African savannas. Questions: Vegetation responses were assessed across land uses and treatments to answer the following questions: (1) does shrub removal increase the frequency of palatable plants and therefore herbivore‐carrying capacity; (2) does selective shrub removal decrease woody vegetation structure 15 years after application; and (3) how do these effects differ between cattle and wildlife ranching? Location: Molopo region of the North West Province, South Africa. Methods: Herbaceous and woody vegetations were sampled within six transects each of three wildlife ranches and three cattle ranches in areas that had either been selectively shrub‐controlled with herbicides 10–15 years previously or left untreated. To quantify effects of woody shrub control on herbaceous functional‐group abundances and assemblages, tree equivalents, regrowth rate, and shrub abundance, we compared these variables across two treatments (treated and untreated) and land uses. Data were analysed using GLMMs, NMDS ordinations, PERMANOVA, and SIMPER. Results: Selective shrub control effectively improved palatable herbaceous vegetation, especially on cattle ranches. Especially abundance of perennial grass was higher on wildlife ranches compared to cattle ranches. Tree equivalent was higher in untreated compared to treated plots, and these differences were more pronounced on wildlife ranches than on cattle ranches. Conclusionss: Selective shrub removal improved the palatable herbaceous layer for both wildlife and cattle ranching and can be considered an effective management strategy in semi‐arid rangelands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most basic criteria in documenting rangeland use prospects is the recognition of byproducts and their economic appraisal. The current study was conducted to assess the economic indices of exploiting byproduct production in Shahindej, Northwest Iran. For this purpose, 24 by-product-generating species were selected in 114 locations that belong to 49 rangeland units. The total expected value of 24 by-product generating species yield and forage production was calculated at 44.22 USD ha−1. The results of this study showed that the sustainability of natural resources depends on the effective participation and empowerment of local communities. Furthermore, by-product exploitation contributes significantly to the local economy and employment while also reducing grazing intensity. Overall, the findings of this study show that by-product earnings should be considered in range management schemes and comprehensive natural-area management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Livestock grazing significantly influences the structure and dynamics of vegetation in rangelands, prompting the implementation of exclosure operations as a management strategy. Exclosure involves restricting livestock access to rangelands and is recognized as an effective method for rangeland management and improvement. Numerous studies suggest that exclosure operations lead to positive changes in vegetation indicators, including cover structure, production levels, and species diversity. This research aims to investigate changes in vegetation canopy percentage, production rates, and species diversity under exclosure management in the semi-steppe rangelands of Ghalehgharak, Shahrekord. Methodology: Sampling locations were selected within the exclosure site (Ghalegharak) and an adjacent grazed site. Plant cover sampling was conducted using a random-systematic method over multiple years (2016 to 2021). Four parallel transects of 100 meters in length were established at each site, with 40 plots of 2 * 2 square meters placed along the transects. Canopy cover percentage was determined using the theoretical estimation method, while biomass was measured through the cutting and weighing method. Species diversity was assessed using Simpson and Shannon-Wiener indices, and species richness was compared using Margalef and Menhinich indices in the Past software. Range condition was determined using modified four-factor and six-factor methods, and trends were evaluated using scale and comparison methods. Results: Over the five-year study period, the exclosure site exhibited canopy cover percentages ranging from 34.57% to 52.68%, while the grazed site showed variations from 22.15% to 32.76%. Biomass on the exclosure site ranged from 1215 to 1908 kg/ha, whereas the grazed site's production varied from 693 to 1025.6 kg/ha. The rangeland status was determined as moderate for the exclosure site and poor for the grazed site. The trend for the exclosure site was positive, while the grazed site trend was negative. Significant differences were observed between most evaluation indicators for the enclosed and grazed sites, with exclosure enhancing vegetation indices, canopy cover, and biomass. Exclosure significantly increased species diversity and richness, as indicated by Simpson, Shannon-Weiner, Margalef, and Menhinich indices. Conclusion: The research findings indicate that exclosure positively influences vegetation, biomass, and species diversity in rangelands. Given the declining performance of grazing rangelands in recent years, implementing exclosure operations and strategic livestock grazing management emerges as a favorable approach for pasture improvement and altering current trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of rangelands requires an innovative perspective and forward-looking approaches in a way that can face the challenges of the present age. Climate change and new diseases are examples of challenges for which it is necessary to predict appropriate strategies for the future of rangelands according to their impact. This research aimed to identify the drivers of rangeland management in the Covid-19 pandemic period. For this purpose, the interaction of Covid-19 disease with the main components of rangeland management (pastoralist, livestock, and rangeland) was investigated with the descriptive-analytical method and mutual effects analysis technique. After preparing a 24-item list of influential factors on rangeland management with qualitative approaches, the required information was collected by the questionnaire using the purposeful sampling method from 30 rangeland experts and rangeland exploiters elites in Golestan province in autumn, 2021. Data were analyzed using MICMAC software. The results showed the unstable situation of the rangelands management system in Golestan province. Based on the degree of direct and indirect effect of the factors, the most important drivers of rangeland management included six factors related to the "pastoralist" component, two factors related to the "rangeland" component, and one factor related to "livestock" component which were respectively: "pastoralist's sense of ownership of the range", "pastoralist's knowledge and skill level", "vegetation cover and fodder production of the rangeland", "adherence to the principles of range management", "participation and teamwork of the pastoralist", "proportion of the rangeland in the livelihood of the pastoralist", "job security of the pastoralist", "duration of livestock presence in rangeland ", and "existence drinking water in the rangeland". Furthermore, the Covid-19 pandemic was not a factor in rangeland management because it did not affect the rangeland management system, nor was affected by other factors. According to the findings, a scenario for managing ranges in Golestan province was developed and practical suggestions were presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arid ecosystems have a high capacity for carbon pool since they involve 41% of the world’s land surface. It is important to make reliable estimations of the amount of carbon stored in the soil and plat of rangelands. The present study was conducted to compare the ability of two native plant species, namely Artemisia sieberi Besser. and Zygophyllum atriplicoides Fisch. & C.A.Mey., concerning carbon pool in arid rangelands of Luchunasi, Sistan and Baluchestan province, Iran. The data were collected in 2020 through a randomized complete block design. We measured soil bulk density, organic carbon, pH, EC, and soil carbon pool from three soil layers (0–30, 30–60, and 60–90 cm), as well as carbon pool of aboveground and belowground biomass. The data were analyzed via analysis of ‎variance and paired T-test. The obtained results indicated that in both habitats, the maximum levels of soil carbon pool, bulk density, and organic carbon were observed in the 0-30-cm soil layer. In Z. atriplicoides habitat, Cp in the depth of 0-30 cm was higher than that in A. sieberi habitat. In both plants, Cp in the belowground biomass was significantly higher than the aboveground parts (P

Long-term livestock grazing has shaped landscapes, biodiversity, societies, cultures, and economies in the North Atlantic over time. However, overgrazing has become a major environmental sustainability challenge for this region, covering the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. The objective of this study was to elicit narratives and spatial patterns of local people’s management preferences for sheep grazing in the Faroe Islands through a socio-cultural lens. We collected data via a Public Participation Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS) survey with an open question about hopes and concerns for sheep management in the Faroe Islands and a mapping exercise for expressing spatial preferences for sheep management. Four distinct narratives emerged from a qualitative analysis of responses to the open question (n = 184): (1) Sustainable sheep management, (2) Nature without sheep, (3) Sheep as part of Faroese culture, and (4) Sheep as nuisance. Visual inspection of narrative-specific maps with locations where either no or fewer sheep were preferred indicated that sheep management is not simply a ’sheep vs. no sheep’ issue but embedded in a more nuanced consideration of the place of sheep in the landscape and society. For example, for some residents sheep-farming is not a commercial enterprise but a social activity and local source of food. Our combined methodological approach using qualitative and spatial data can help researchers in other fields identify the interplay between place-specific areas of grazing management concern and socio-cultural values, enabling more targeted land-use management policies or plans.

High frequency burned area (BA) images provide an opportunity to monitor rangeland fire frequency (FF). This study related grass aboveground biomass (AGB) to FF in a 4800 ha biodiversity conservation savannah-grassland rangeland. Archived (2000–2021), 500 m resolution MODIS burned area monthly images were used. Following Boolean coding (fire event pixel = 1, no-fire pixel = 0), addition GIS overlay analysis yielded total fires per pixel location. Fire detection accuracy was assessed using 2018–2021 management fire event records. Sample grass AGB data were obtained at the end of the 2020 and 2021 growing seasons from widely dispersed sampling sites with wide grass cover uniformity, where a 1 m quadrat was tossed randomly in a 20 m × 20 m plot up to three times. The quadrat-enclosed grass was harvested to soil level, air-dried, and weighed to generate site average AGB values, which were correlated with vegetation index (VI) values from sampling near-concurrent surface reflectance (L2SP) Landsat-8 OLI images. Four biomass-sensitive VIs utilising Landsat sensor spectral ranges were tested. The Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) yielded the strongest relationship (r = 0.410, p < 0.01). A linear model predicting grass AGB from EVI values was developed using 58% of sample data for training (R2 = 0.3062, p < 0.01) and 42% for validation (R2 = 0.5225, p < 0.001). Using the model, sampling site historical grass AGB values were predicted on same season, L2SP Landsat (TM, ETM+, OLI) images from 2000, 2002, 2006, 2009, 2013 and 2016, whose dates were selected by comparing rainfall. The MODIS images detected 73% of fires larger than 25 ha (one pixel). Most sites experienced long-term AGB gains, at faster rates in high FF (4–5 fires), low grazing sites. Most fires occurred as ecologically undesired late burns, indicating the utility of archived high-frequency BA images for rangeland management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alto Minho (in northwestern Iberia) is one of the European regions most affected by fires. Many of these fires originate from rangeland management of Atlantic heathlands, and, while being illegal, often are not actively suppressed. In this study, pastoral fires (autumn-to-spring fires unrecorded by authorities), spring wildfires, and summer wildfires were independently mapped and dated from remote sensing. Alto Minho burned at a mean annual rate of 5.0% of the territory between 2001 and 2020. Pastoral burning totalled 40,788 hectares during the period, accounting for 20% of the total burnt area. Rangeland burning occurs mostly from December to April, the rainiest months that guarantee the conditions for pasture renewal and fire self-extinction. The mean fire return interval of pastoral burning is slightly higher than that of wildfires (13 years vs. 11 years), except in part of the inner mountains where it dominates fire activity. Pastoral fires are more frequent and largely prevail over wildfires in the parishes with higher livestock quantities. Conversely, the largest wildfires and higher summer burnt areas correspond with very low livestock and nearly non-existing pastoral fires. Traditional fire knowledge should not be overlooked by fire management, as it contributes to more sustainable fire regimes and ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unfettered agricultural activities have severely degraded vast areas of grasslands over the last decade. To rehabilitate and restore the productivity in affected grasslands, rangeland management practices still institute vast nitrogen-based fertilization regimes. However, excessive fertilization can often have damaging environmental effects. Over-fertilization can lead to nitrogen saturation. Although early indicators of nitrogen saturation have been documented, research detailing the near-real-time nitrogen saturation status of grasslands is required to better facilitate management protocols and optimize biomass production within degraded grasslands. Hence, the aim of this study was to discriminate nitrogen-saturated tropical grasses grown under a diverse fertilization treatment trial, using Worldview-3 satellite imagery and decision tree techniques. To accomplish this, nitrogen-saturated plots were first identified through specific physiological-based criteria. Thereafter, Worldview-3 satellite imagery (400–1040 nm) and decision tree techniques were applied to discriminate between nitrogen-saturated and -unsaturated grassland plots. The results showed net nitrate (NO3−-N) concentrations and net pH levels to be significantly different (α = 0.05) between saturated and non-saturated plots. Moreover, the random forest model (overall accuracy of 91%) demonstrated a greater ability to classify saturated plots as opposed to the classification and regression tree method (overall accuracy of 79%). The most important variables for classifying saturated plots were identified as: the Red-Edge (705–745 nm), Coastal (400–450 nm), Near-Infrared 3 (838–950 nm), Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index 3 (NDVI3). These results provide a framework to assist rangeland managers in identifying grasslands within the initial stages of nitrogen saturation. This will enable fertilization treatments to be adjusted in near-real-time according to ecosystem demand and thereby maintain the health and longevity of Southern African grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Evolutionary traits acquired in response to one type of disturbance will potentially confer resilience to other disturbances that have similar environmental impacts, even if the biota has no evolutionary history of such disturbances. In grassy ecosystems the environmental impacts of grazing have important similarities to those of fire through the removal of grass biomass, and we hypothesise that high resilience to frequent fire confers high resilience to grazing. Aims: We test this hypothesis by investigating the resilience of highly fire-resilient ant communities to grazing in a mesic Australian savanna, which has not historically experienced such high levels of mammalian grazing. Methods: We sampled ants using pitfall traps at Annaburroo Station in the Australian seasonal tropics using ten plot triplets, with each triplet representing no, low and heavy grazing. Grazing has had a major impact on the basal area of perennial grasses and the cover of bare ground. We considered large (> 4 mm) ants only, which tend to be particularly sensitive to disturbance. Results: We recorded 28 species of 'large' ants from 14 genera. Neither ant species richness nor overall composition varied significantly with grazing, and only one of the eight most common species responded to grazing. Discussion: Ant communities at Annaburoo Station are highly resilient to livestock grazing. The limited number of relevant studies suggest that ant communities in Australian savannas more generally have higher resilience than those in southern rangelands where fire frequency is relatively low. This supports our hypothesis that an evolutionary history of frequent fire confers resilience to grazing. Many more studies are required, but we suggest that resilience to grazing might be related more to evolutionary history in relation to fire, a more pervasive remover of plant biomass globally, than to grazing. Implications for insect conservation: Grazing by cattle is the dominant land-use in Australian savannas and the Australian savanna ant fauna is one of the richest on Earth; our findings of high resilience is therefore good news for insect conservation. Such good news is likely to have wide applicability to other fire-prone grassy ecosystems subject to livestock grazing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fire is the fastest cause of extensive changes in vegetation. The purpose of this research is to examine some of these changes. SO, after determining key area of four 200m transects and a distance of 100 m from each other, 10 plots 1m2 fixed on each of them, formed sample units in each field. This site burned in 2011 and 2013, in 2018 and 2019, random-systematic statistical collection was carried out in it. Results showed, in fire treatment the dominance of production and cover is with invader plants. Production of this class 52.05 and 209.1gr/m2 has been preserved in burnt area compared to control. Also, annual grasses have significant average difference in terms of production and canopy compared to other species. However, annual forbs had 1.5 times more production in fire than control. Although the amount of production in burnt area is more than control but, it doesnt mean an increase in the amount of allowable forage. The plant type in the burned fundamental change compared to the control by replacing annuals instead of permanent species. As result production, density and canopy cover of different palatability classes and growing forms also found fundamental changes. Fire is cause of changing in rangeland condition from excellent to average, the trend is positive in both treatments. The management of burnt fields is very specialized, and according to the existing conditions, it is strongly not recommended to create a fire either intentionally or accidentally in this area is vegetation zone form of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought events have significant impact on ecosystems and the livelihoods of rural communities in Iran. So, the purpose of this study was the analysis and evaluation of dimensions of adaptive capacity (AC) against drought in Bajestan county, Khorasan Razavi province, Iran. A questionnaire was used to collect data for social network analysis (SNA) and AC by the full network method. Then, a combined SNA-SEM model was developed to determine what was the social response of rangeland users in dealing with drought. In this study, the AC of rangeland users was compared in two groups of villages covered by the collaborative management or Carbon Sequestration Project (CSP) and uncovered by CSP. The results confirmed that the villages under CSP had higher levels of AC and social capital. Among five capitals, indicators of economic resources and information, skills and management were more effective on AC. Among the SNA indexes, effsize, constrain, indirects, density and betweenes centrality are more effective on AC of rangeland users. Results showed that identifying the key actors, who have the power and influence to determine the information flow and financial inflows in these components, can help increase the AC of rangeland users to mitigate effects of drought. • The indicators of economic resources and information, skills and management are more effective capitals on AC. • The rate of AC in villages that covered by CSP are higher than in villages that uncovered by CSP. • Social capital has led to more adaptability of beneficiaries in arid lands. • The social network metrics are effective on rangeland users' AC in the face of drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) has been introduced to the Yampa River in Northwestern Colorado for over 40 years and flood and runoff events transport leafy spurge propagules onto adjacent landscapes. The spread of leafy spurge beyond the river channels has yet to be mapped and recorded, and this research was conducted to map leafy spurge occurrence in the Yampa River Valley. Significant stakeholder mapping efforts took place in the summer of 2019–2021, leading to excellent spatial data on leafy spurge presence and absence along the main channel. In summer 2019, multispectral SPOT seven satellite imagery, stakeholder ground mapping efforts, and bright yellow-green leafy spurge bracts were used to interpret imagery, identify dense, unobscured patches of leafy spurge, and digitize them. Spectral signatures from training samples for leafy spurge and other land cover classes (generalized as “not leafy spurge”) were then used to train a Random Forest machine learning classification. In the summer of 2021, generated classification maps were compared to multispectral satellite imagery and stakeholder ground mapped leafy spurge presence. Mismatches were identified, and 271 validation locations were identified, navigated to, and evaluated for leafy spurge presence. Leafy spurge training samples were classified with 96% accuracy. Correctly classified leafy spurge locations had higher leafy spurge coverage and lower overstory canopy than missed leafy spurge locations. Leafy spurge growing beneath shrub canopy or growing as individual plants along the riverbanks were more likely to be missed. A frequency analysis for other plant species found at validation locations determined that smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyss.), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.), and willow (Salix sp.) were most frequently misclassified as leafy spurge. In conclusion, multispectral satellite imagery was useful at remote detection of leafy spurge in open areas with dense leafy spurge coverage, but more work must be done for identification of sparse and diffuse leafy spurge infestations.

Long-term livestock grazing has shaped landscapes, biodiversity, societies, cultures, and economies in the North Atlantic over time. However, overgrazing has become a major environmental sustainability challenge for this region, covering the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. The objective of this study was to elicit narratives and spatial patterns of local people's management preferences for sheep grazing in the Faroe Islands through a socio-cultural lens. We collected data via a Public Participation Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS) survey with an open question about hopes and concerns for sheep management in the Faroe Islands and a mapping exercise for expressing spatial preferences for sheep management. Four distinct narratives emerged from a qualitative analysis of responses to the open question (n = 184): (1) Sustainable sheep management, (2) Nature without sheep, (3) Sheep as part of Faroese culture, and (4) Sheep as nuisance. Visual inspection of narrative-specific maps with locations where either no or fewer sheep were preferred indicated that sheep management is not simply a 'sheep vs. no sheep' issue but embedded in a more nuanced consideration of the place of sheep in the landscape and society. For example, for some residents sheep-farming is not a commercial enterprise but a social activity and local source of food. Our combined methodological approach using qualitative and spatial data can help researchers in other fields identify the interplay between place-specific areas of grazing management concern and socio-cultural values, enabling more targeted land-use management policies or plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Background: Several factors contribute to negative changes in the quality and quantity of pastures, leading to soil and vegetation degradation, reduced farmers' income, destructive floods, migration of villagers and nomads to urban areas, and rural poverty. One significant factor among these is rangeland management. Recognizing the importance of effective rangeland management, this research aims to analyze the factors influencing rangeland management in Kermanshah province. Methodology: This study adopts a descriptive-analytical research approach. The statistical population comprises managers and experts from the General Directorate of Natural Resources and Watershed Management of Kermanshah province. A sample of 31 individuals was randomly selected, and questionnaires were administered to them. Ultimately, 28 completed questionnaires were returned. The data collection tool was a questionnaire designed based on field research and individual interviews with experts and managers of the General Directorate of Natural Resources and Watershed Management of Kermanshah province. The questionnaire consisted of two parts: the first part collected personal characteristics of respondents, including gender, age, education level, occupation, number of households, and income. The second part focused on pasture management and utilized a five-level Likert scale, structural equation modeling was employed for data analysis. The questionnaire's forma! and content validity were confirmed through the input of professors from Razi University of Kermanshah and subject matter experts, with necessary revisions made inmrrltiple stages. Reliability of the measurement tool was assessed using Cronbach's alpha method. Results: The results revealed that among the five factors affecting pasture management, rules and regulations explained the highest proportion of variation, while man-made problems contributed the least. The average variance extracted (AVE for the planning index was 0.766, man-made problems index was 0.711, rules and regulations index was 0.799, individual skill index was 0.526, and monitoring index was 0.626, indicating convergent validity. The combined reliability (CR) coefficient for the planning index was 0.755, man-made problems index was 0.737, rules and regulations index was 0.802, individual skill index was 0.514, and monitoring index was 0.526, indicating adequate reliability. Indirect effects on rangeland management were found to be most significant for multi-level program goals, inappropriate exploitation practices by farmers, unprincipled and unscientific agricultural methods, improper plowing techniques, inadequate mechanization, lack of deterrence and implementation guarantees in rangeland evaluation laws, and insufficient comprehensive management supervision throughout the cycle. Conversely, variables such as managers' low acceptance of planning and people's lack of knowledge and awareness regarding proper pasture use had the least impact. Conclusion: The results highlight the importance of planning indicators (0.30), man-made problems (0.18), rules and regulations (0.66), individual skill (0.46), and supervision (0.22) in explaining factor loadings. Effective policies and management measures need to be designed to steer pasture conditions towards improvement. Achieving this objective requires a deep understanding of how managers make decisions, plan, and implement strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Background: In Iran, the economic and social dependency of pastoralists on pasture fodder has intensified due to population growth among pastoral communities. Rangeland managers are concerned about the imbalance between livestock and available pastures. In response, decision-makers have sought to alleviate pressure on rangelands by promoting alternative livelihoods and implementing multiple-use projects. However, the successful implementation of multiple-use projects in Golestan and Azadshahr provinces has faced challenges, even after five years of project review sendee announcements. This study aims to investigate the reasons for the non-acceptance of multiple-use projects in the rangelands of Azadshahr and Gonbad. Methodology: The study was conducted in three stages: discovery, evaluation and analysis, and the development of the final structure. Various ecological, economic, and social indicators were used to assess the acceptance of multiple-use projects among rangeland users. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, and the reasons for non-acceptance were compared using pairwise comparisons on the Likert scale. The selection of representatives was based on the reputation approach and targeted sampling, considering criteria such as work histoiy, experience, and literacy level. Hierarchical analysis was performed using Expert Choice 11, and judgments on the acceptance or rejection of given ranks were made based on pairwise comparisons and compatibility rates. Results: The results indicated that economic, political-institutional, and environmental criteria were the primary factors contributing to the non-acceptance of multiple-use projects. Insufficient economic stability, lack of job security, inappropriate timing and location of project implementation, and inadequate government support were cited as some of the key indicators. Respondents also highlighted top-down management approaches and a lack of attention to user participation in decision-making and planning as significant issues. Concusion: Overall, the findings suggest that pastoralists have a low acceptance of multi-purpose plans, indicating the failure of planners and decision-makers to effectively engage stakeholders in these projects. It is recommended to enhance participation at various levels of decision-making, planning, and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbaceous vegetation species’ responses to cutting frequencies have not been evaluated in the Borana rangelands, southern Ethiopia. The current study was investigated to determine the grass and non-grass species’ yield responses to four cutting frequencies over two years (2019 and 2020). The four treatments were cutting once after the end of the main growing season (T1), cutting every week (T2), cutting every-two weeks (T3), and cutting every-three weeks (T4). Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. In total, 37 different herbaceous species comprising 15 grasses and 22 non-grasses were sampled. Treatments had a significant effect (p

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Context: The semiarid rangelands of northern Australia have high climate variability and a history of suffering periodic severe droughts. To remain viable, livestock businesses in the rangelands need to build resilience to climatic and market variability by regularly producing a profit and increasing wealth. Aims: Our aim was to use the farm-management economics framework to conduct a contemporary assessment of the profitability and resilience of alternative livestock enterprises in the semiarid rangelands of northern Australia. Methods: Livestock options were examined for a constructed, hypothetical property representative of the central-western Queensland rangelands (16 200 ha; long-term carrying capacity 1071 adult equivalents). First, the profitability of beef cattle, wool sheep, meat sheep and meat goat enterprises was assessed in a steady-state analysis using herd or flock budgeting models. Second, farm-level, partial discounted cash-flow budgets were applied to consider the value of integrating or fully adopting over time several of the alternative enterprises from the starting base enterprise of either a self-replacing (1) beef cattle herd or (2) wool sheep flock. Key results: In the steady-state analysis of existing enterprises, meat sheep and rangeland meat goat enterprises produced the greatest rate of return on total capital (3.9 and 3.7% per annum respectively). The operating profit, of all self-replacing herds or flocks, was most sensitive to meat prices. Where full investment in a wild dog exclusion fence around the boundary of the property, and some refurbishment of existing infrastructure, was required to convert from beef to small ruminant production, the investment increased the riskiness and indebtedness of the overall enterprise. This was the case even when the long-term operating profit of the property could be substantially improved, e.g. by a change to rangeland meat goats (extra A$45 700 profit/annum). Conclusions: Existing small ruminant enterprises in the semiarid rangelands of Queensland are profitable and resilient alternatives, based on contemporary prices. However, when changing from the predominant beef cattle enterprise, and incurring significant capital costs to do so, financial risk is substantially increased, which has implications for property managers. Implications: The farm-management economics framework should be used by individual grazing businesses for their specific circumstances, to support decision-making. To remain viable, livestock businesses need to build resilience to climatic and market variability by regularly producing a profit. The farm-management economics framework was used to conduct a contemporary assessment of livestock enterprises in the semiarid rangelands of Queensland. Existing small ruminant enterprises were profitable and resilient alternatives, based on contemporary prices. However, when changing from the predominant beef cattle enterprise, and incurring significant capital costs to do so, financial risk was substantially increased, which has implications for property managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various factors lead to increased woody species density, biomass and cover (so-called 'bush encroachment') that influence ecosystem functioning and services in semi-arid rangelands. Ultimately, bush encroachment has adverse effects on human livelihoods. An increased understanding of ecosystem functioning in bush-encroached rangelands could contribute to improved management, conservation and restoration. This study, therefore, aimed to determine landscape functioning of bush-encroached and controlled savanna rangelands in the Molopo region, South Africa, by using the landscape function analysis (LFA) monitoring procedure. Mixed models revealed no significant differences based on LFA indices between bush-thickened and bush-controlled sites due to drought conditions that prevailed while the survey was carried out. Stability, which revealed the largest LFA contributing factors, always had the highest numerical value for sites that were still bush-encroached. Soil analyses revealed that grass litter patches from aeroplane-controlled sites had the highest average nutrient levels. As expected, high percentages of carbon and calcium levels were found in bush-encroached shrub litter patches. Bush-encroached landscapes are fully functional areas, especially under drought conditions. Long-term research is required to determine the effects successful management has on ecosystem functioning, especially during periods of higher rainfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arid ecosystems have a high capacity for carbon pool since they involve 41% of the world's land surface. It is important to make reliable estimations of the amount of carbon stored in the soil and plat of rangelands. The present study was conducted to compare the ability of two native plant species, namely Artemisia sieberi Besser. and Zygophyllum atriplicoides Fisch. & C.A.Mey., concerning carbon pool in arid rangelands of Luchunasi, Sistan and Baluchestan province, Iran. The data were collected in 2020 through a randomized complete block design. We measured soil bulk density, organic carbon, pH, EC, and soil carbon pool from three soil layers (0-30, 30-60, and 60-90 cm), as well as carbon pool of aboveground and belowground biomass. The data were analyzed via analysis of variance and paired T-test. The obtained results indicated that in both habitats, the maximum levels of soil carbon pool, bulk density, and organic carbon were observed in the 0-30-cm soil layer. In Z. atriplicoides habitat, Cp in the depth of 0-30 cm was higher than that in A. sieberi habitat. In both plants, Cp in the belowground biomass was significantly higher than the aboveground parts (P<0.01). Moreover, our study showed that Z. atriplicoides (shrub form) has further potential to store carbon compared with A. sieberi. (bush form). The use of plants with shrub form in biological practices can increase the carbon pool in arid lands, but the efficiency of more plant species needs to be assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alto Minho (in northwestern Iberia) is one of the European regions most affected by fires. Many of these fires originate from rangeland management of Atlantic heathlands, and, while being illegal, often are not actively suppressed. In this study, pastoral fires (autumn-to-spring fires unrecorded by authorities), spring wildfires, and summer wildfires were independently mapped and dated from remote sensing. Alto Minho burned at a mean annual rate of 5.0% of the territory between 2001 and 2020. Pastoral burning totalled 40,788 hectares during the period, accounting for 20% of the total burnt area. Rangeland burning occurs mostly from December to April, the rainiest months that guarantee the conditions for pasture renewal and fire self-extinction. The mean fire return interval of pastoral burning is slightly higher than that of wildfires (13 years vs. 11 years), except in part of the inner mountains where it dominates fire activity. Pastoral fires are more frequent and largely prevail over wildfires in the parishes with higher livestock quantities. Conversely, the largest wildfires and higher summer burnt areas correspond with very low livestock and nearly non-existing pastoral fires. Traditional fire knowledge should not be overlooked by fire management, as it contributes to more sustainable fire regimes and ecosystems.

Intensification of livestock production has reduced heterogeneity in vegetative structure in managed grasslands, which has been linked to widespread declines in grassland songbird populations throughout North America. Patch-burn grazing management aims to restore some of that heterogeneity in vegetative structure by burning discrete pasture sections, so that cattle preferentially graze in recently burned areas. Although patch-burn grazing can increase reproductive success of grassland songbirds, we know little about possible interactions with regional variation in predator communities or brood parasite abundance, or annual variation in weather conditions. Using six years of data from two tallgrass prairie sites in eastern Kansas, USA, we tested effects of patch-burn grazing on the rates of brood parasitism, clutch size, nest survival, and fledging success of three common grassland songbirds, Dickcissels (Spiza americana), Eastern Meadowlarks (Sturnella magna), and Grasshopper Sparrows (Ammodramus savannarum), among pastures managed with patch-burn grazing versus pastures that were annually burned and either grazed or ungrazed. Dickcissel nests experienced lower parasitism (72.8 ± 4.6% SE vs. 89.1 ± 2.2%) and Eastern Meadowlarks had higher nest survival (63.2 ± 20.5% vs. 16.5 ± 3.5%) in annually burned and ungrazed pastures than pastures managed with patch-burn grazing. However, average number of host fledglings per nesting attempt did not differ among management treatments for any species. Annual variation in weather conditions had a large effect on vegetation structure, but not on reproductive success. Probability of brood parasitism was consistently high (25.5?84.7%) and nest survival was consistently low (9.9-16.9%) for all species pooled across treatments, sites, and years, indicating that combined effects of predation, parasitism and drought can offset potential benefits of patchburn grazing management previously found in tallgrass prairies. Although differences in reproductive success among management treatments were minimal, patch-burn grazing management could still benefit population dynamics of grassland songbirds in areas where nest predators and brood parasites are locally abundant by providing suitable nesting habitat for bird species that require greater amounts of vegetation cover and litter, generally not present in burned pastures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silvopasture, a traditional agroforestry practice, combines the presence of trees, shrubs, herbage, and livestock in time and space to provide multiple ecosystem services that contribute to human well-being. However, the abandonment of traditional agroforestry practices across Europe has led to substantial changes in vegetation characteristics, mainly due to woody plant expansion and, as a consequence, changes in wildlife that rely on open habitats. This study examines the effects of a 20-year abandonment of silvopastoral practices (i.e., livestock grazing and fuelwood harvesting) in a typical agroforestry Mediterranean landscape (kermes oak shrubland, natural grassland, and olive groves) on European hare (Lepus europaeus) habitat use. We estimated tree, shrub, and herb cover using a densitometer and hare habitat use using pellet counts within 2004-m2 rectangular plots in 2002, 2011, and 2021. Hare pellet density in olive groves was significantly lower in 2021 compared to 2002, while the opposite trend was found in grassland for the same period. Woody plant cover expanded from 2002 to 2021. We suggest that the woody plant encroachment that followed the abandonment of traditional silvopastoral practices in the area is the main driver behind the reported decline in hare use of the habitat, as it became less open and therefore less favorable for the species. Maintaining a mosaic of open and closed habitats at the landscape level, which was once provided by silvopastures, is vital for the conservation of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Awareness of knowledge and attitude of rangeland owners towards the problems and management of this ecosystem is essential for decision making and planning. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the views of rangers and natural resources experts on the impact of the implementation of rangeland projects as well as their participation and cooperation in the success of these projects. The study area was the city of Torbat-e Jam. Examining the rangeland management plans of Torbat-e-Jam city from 1993 to 2014, it was found that five plans in Bashirabad, Cheshmeh Gol, Goyi, Timanak Sofla, and Jahanabad areas have been implemented. The statistical population of the study includes 464 farmers who are pastoralists with grazing licenses. Using Cochran's formula, 186 samples were systematically randomly selected and questioned. Then, from the statistical analysis of the data and by examining all the measured variables and components, it was found that there is a significant linear relationship between the views of regional stakeholders and economic, educational, social participation, and institutional cooperation. The results showed that the most important components affecting the view of stakeholders to participate in rangeland projects are the study of economic and social needs before the approval of projects and approval of projects following the needs of villagers, including income and housing, and selection of executors from among stakeholders. It is suggested that to improve the results of watershed management projects in the study area, continuous coordination between the extension departments of the cities to hold orientation, training, and cooperation-oriented classes in the field of proper rangeland management should be on the agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the barriers to education and extension in management of rangelands of Mazandaran province. The research is of applied type and field research in Mazandaran Province. Population consisted of all Extension and rangeland management experts in 12 counties of Mazandaran province that in relation to the expert's population in each of the counties related to livestock and rangeland activities through random and available sampling method, the statistical sample of the study was selected that the sample size of 110 people was obtained using Morgan formula. The main research tool included a questionnaire. Its validity (form and content) was confirmed based on the collective opinion of experts from Jihad Agriculture, Natural Resources Management, Environment Organization, Rangelands and Forests Organization in Mazandaran Province, faculty members of Department of Agricultural Extension and Education and Rangeland of Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha was used to estimate the reliability (0.798). The reliability was found to be acceptable. The results of factor analysis showed that: 1) Economic-supportive barriers; (2) infrastructural-technical barriers; (3) rangeland management system barriers; (4) socio-cultural barriers; (5) Politicalinstitutional barriers were the five barriers to application education and extension in management of rangelands. These factors explained 74.66 percent of the total variance. Finally, the proposed research model in rangeland ranchers and rangeland brokers (policy makers) has provided solutions to reduce barriers and problems in extension rangeland management. Keep up with the research results development of the use of appropriate extension methods such as training and visit approach and participatory approach and prioritization of training and extension needs in the rangeland management department of the province to disseminate information and practical skills among rangeland users, integrating knowledge and indigenous skills with new technologies in conservation Recommended from pastures and livestock production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In recent years, rangeland degradation has reduced a wide range of ecosystem services for billions of people whose livelihoods depend on natural resources. Proper rangeland management can multiply the rangeland's capacity to benefit from ecosystem services. The dominant model of rangeland management is the preparation and implementation of pastoral plans. These plans, if not be properly selected and not be based on rangeland ecosystem services improving, in addition to exacerbate the downward trend of rangelands, also will result in the loss of capital. Therefore, by recognizing the effects of different management methods on ecosystem services, it is possible to change or modify rangeland management patterns. In the present study, we ranked rangeland management plans methods in Fars province using multi-criteria analysis in the context of rangeland ecosystem services. Material and methods: One of the major causes that hinder consideration of the value of ecosystem services in computation and evaluation are the heterogeneity of the different types of value measurement units, the impossibility of quantifying all values and the problems associated with the integration of quantitative and qualitative data. Therefore, given the capabilities of multi-criteria analysis methods in analyzing heterogeneous data, these methods are suitable tools for overcoming this problem and for making more reasoned and informed decisions. In the present study, fuzzy hierarchical analysis (AHP) was used to determine the weight of criteria and indices. Then, using the results of the first step as input of the PROMETHEE software, the rangeland remediation options were ranked using the PROMETHEE II analysis. Results and discussion: According to the literature on the subject and discussion with rangeland and environmental experts, 12 indicators were defined for four categories of ecosystem services. After determining the criteria, weight of criteria and indices were calculated using hierarchical analysis method. Paired comparisons of ecosystem services criteria indicated that regulatory and support services with a weight of 0.734 are more important than production and cultural services. The results of paired comparisons of ecosystem cultural service indices showed that biodiversity criterion was much more important than landscape, recreation and ecotourism criteria. Paired comparisons of sub-criteria of ecosystem services indexes showed that grazing capacity and profitability of livestock products with the relative weight of 0.555 and 0.224 were the highest importance among ecosystem services indices, respectively. In addition, rangeland water resource capability index with significant weight of 0.475 is in the first place of impact on ecosystem regulation and support indexes and soil erosion prevention index with the weight of 0.352 is ranked second. The final weight of each index was obtained by multiplying the relative weight of the criteria by the relative weight of the indices. Among the ecosystem services indexes, water resources weight was 0.35 which was the highest weight. After water resources, the role of the ecosystem in preventing soil erosion is the most important indicator evaluated. The third most weighted indicator is biodiversity. After data entry into PROMETHEE software, the results showed that among the various pasture management options, enclosure was ranked first. Therefore, the enclosure plan provides the most ecosystem services. 11 indicators had a positive effect on enclosure priority and the only indicator that had a negative effect on enclosure priority was access to water resources. To validate the results, sensitivity analysis was performed in three different scenarios. Results of sensitivity analysis showed that due to water shortage crisis and high importance of this index in rangeland ecosystem services, priority of rangeland options is not sensitive to changes in other indices. Conclusion: According to the results, the exclosure plan provides the highest ecosystem services in rangeland management and the least ecosystem services in medicinal plants. After exclosure, priority is with water projects includes springs refurbishment and pond construction. In order to better management of rangelands in Fars province and the necessity of ecosystem services consideration in rangeland plans, we can obtain valid evaluations by applying multi criteria methods.

Livestock grazing can shape temperate grassland ecosystems, with both positive and negative effects on wildlife documented depending on a variety of grazing and site factors. Historically, research investigating the impacts of livestock grazing on wildlife has been limited by a narrow focus on simple “grazed” vs. “ungrazed” treatments or examining how grazing affects only a single vital rate in isolation. To overcome these limitations, we used a two-stage class, female-based integrated population model (IPM) to examine whether three grazing management regimes (season-long, rest-rotation, and summer rotation) differentially impacted population growth rates of sharp-tailed grouse (Tympanachus phasianellus) in eastern Montana and western North Dakota. We estimated 14 vital rates related to survival and fecundity and examined whether subtle cumulative effects of livestock grazing were present but not detected in prior analyses focused on single vital rates. While the management regimes did not differentially impact survival or fecundity of female grouse in our study system, we found evidence for significant cumulative impacts of grazing regime on population growth rates that were only apparent when all vital rates were evaluated concurrently. Population growth rates were higher in areas managed with season-long livestock grazing. The IPM framework encourages comprehensive investigations into the influence of covariates on critical components of species life histories and can assist in guiding management decisions in a world of limited resources. This integrated approach allowed us to more efficiently use multiple data types to provide a more complete picture of the effects of management on an important indicator species.

The USDA Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) is a process-based soil erosion prediction model. WEPP uses three soil erodibility parameters: rill erodibility (Kr), interrill erodibility (Ki), and critical hydraulic shear stress (tc). In this study, a new parameterization approach for estimating erodibility was developed for WEPP applications on rangelands. Data from overland flow experiments on disturbed and undisturbed rangelands were used to develop empirical equations to predict rill erodibility variation as a function of vegetation cover and soil texture. Data from rainfall simulation experiments were analyzed by piecewise regression to develop empirical equations for predicting the variability of interrill erodibility before and after disturbance and across a wide range of soil textures as a function of vegetation cover and soil texture. Critical shear values corresponding to the developed rill and interrill erodibility parameters were proposed. Our results show that the new erodibility approach predicts erosion at the plot scale with a satisfactory range of error (PBIAS =35.6 and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency = 0.49). The new approach was used to provide soil erodibility values for the Erosion Risk Management Tool (ERMiT), which uses WEPP as the runoff and erosion calculation engine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]