PJB-2017-769
ASSESSMENT OF ABOVE-GROUND PHYTOMASS PRODUCTION, CARRYING CAPACITY AND GRAZING INTENSITY IN ALPINE REGION WESTERN HIMALAYA, GILGIT-BALTISTAN
ZARMAST KHAN
Abstract
The objective of present study was to assess the rangeland status of alpine pasture of Himalaya region. For this purpose important rangeland attributes like ground cover, species composition, Standing crop biomass production/productivity, carrying capacity and grazing intensity were investigated. Study area was divided into northern and southern aspect. Three range sites were selected from each aspect. Total 20 quadrats of 1m2 were sampled from each range site. Clip and weight method was followed for the estimation of standing crop biomass and carrying capacity while line intercepts and cage-comparison method was respectively used for estimation of cover and grazing intensity. Results showed that first two range sites of southern aspect were recorded with the maximum vegetation cover, species composition, and productivity as compared to other range sites. The overall carrying capacity of range sites was moderate to poor. Grazing intensity on all range sites was moderate to heavy. Total 26.27% average reduction of biomass was recorded on uncaged sites as compared to caged sites. Total 11 species were recorded while Bistorta affinis was dominated in allover range sites. Less preferred species were dominant on overgrazed range sites. Palatable species were found under pressure. Productivity of range site of this region is far from its bearing potential. The overall rangeland status is poor to moderate and utilization of rangeland resources is beyond its carrying capacity limits. Grazing management strategies are needed to improve the rangeland condition in this region.
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