Migratory Cattle Grazing: An Ecosystem Approach To Livelihood

AUTHOR: M.R. Moktan, L. Norbu, H. Nirola , D.B.Chhetri, T.B.Rai, Rinchen

ABSTRACT

This paper consolidates impact of traditional migratory system of cattle management on their household economy, and describes the interaction between sustainable livestock, forest and pasture resources development. Livestock remain as main livelihood source contributing 71% and 84% of the gross household incomes of herders from Haa and Merak respectively. Seasonal movement of livestock is in direct response to cold temperatures, acute shortage of green forages and income opportunities. In dry valleys, transhumance often makes best sustained use of grassland resources. Mutual understanding regulates grazing between the upstream and downstream cattle owners. The sustained use of grazing resource requires accommodation of traditional rights and clarity on ownership and management of rangeland in the existing legislations. Temperate and subtropical rangelands and forest along migratory cattle routes exhibit signs and symptoms of over-grazing. Rangeland management should be based on availability of forage resources, ecosystems stability and an ability to control livestock numbers. Rest periods and rotational grazing are essential particularly in severely depleted ranges to suppress the growth of unpalatable species.

KEY WORDS:

Migratory herders, rangeland, ecosystem approach, livestock, pasture development.

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