Volume 19, Issue 1 (3-2025)
مرتع 2025, 19(1): 52-67 |
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Pourmahmoud-Hajilari A, Mofidi-Chelan M, Sheidai-Karkaj E. Evaluation and Analysis of Sustainability Components in Pastoral Units of Summer Rangelands in Chaypareh County, West Azerbaijan Province. مرتع 2025; 19 (1) :52-67
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1277-en.html
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1277-en.html
Department of Range and Watershed Management, Faculty of Natural Resources, Urmia University, Urmia
Abstract: (658 Views)
Background and objectives: Achieving balance in rangeland ecosystems is a fundamental challenge in sustainable rangeland management. The attainment of sustainable development at any level requires strategic planning and precise implementation. In order to develop effective economic, social, and environmental strategies, understanding local conditions, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and determining the level of development in pastoral units based on superior indicators are essential. This study aims to evaluate sustainability and analyze its key components among users of pastoral units in the summer rangelands of Chaypareh County.
Methodology: This research employed survey methods (user surveys) and descriptive-analytical approaches to assess sustainability in pastoral units of summer rangelands. Sustainability indicators from previous studies were incorporated, and the Stability Barometer Model was utilized for assessment. This model, introduced by Prescott-Allen, evaluates sustainability based on two primary elements: ecosystem welfare and human welfare, both of which must be enhanced to achieve sustainable conditions. Sustainability is categorized into five levels based on these variables. Five pastoral units were selected considering operator population, accessibility, livestock numbers, and area size within the customary system. Thirty questionnaires were completed by local operators. The calculated Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.745) confirmed acceptable reliability. One-Way ANOVA was applied to compare sustainability component averages, and Duncan’s test was used to identify sources of intra-group variability.
Results: The results revealed significant differences in sustainability measurement components across summer rangeland systems, placing them in distinct statistical groups. The environmental-ecological sustainability dimension demonstrated the highest sustainability level (0.612), while the social dimension exhibited the lowest (0.484). According to the Barometer Model, summer rangeland systems are classified as medium to potentially sustainable. Among pastoral units, Ghorule-Olia demonstrated the highest sustainability level (0.548), while Chirkandi recorded the lowest (0.535).
Conclusion: Achieving rangeland sustainability necessitates targeted attention to all dimensions of sustainable development. The economic and social conditions of pastoralists, including their livestock farming practices (mobile or sedentary), influence overall sustainability. Challenges related to welfare, education, healthcare services, insurance support, economic stability, and grazing management must be addressed through comprehensive planning. Despite positive conditions in forage production and soil characteristics, strategic interventions are required to enhance sustainability. Recommendations include diversifying economic activities, increasing productivity, improving educational, extension, and healthcare services, and considering rangeland capacity and readiness.
Methodology: This research employed survey methods (user surveys) and descriptive-analytical approaches to assess sustainability in pastoral units of summer rangelands. Sustainability indicators from previous studies were incorporated, and the Stability Barometer Model was utilized for assessment. This model, introduced by Prescott-Allen, evaluates sustainability based on two primary elements: ecosystem welfare and human welfare, both of which must be enhanced to achieve sustainable conditions. Sustainability is categorized into five levels based on these variables. Five pastoral units were selected considering operator population, accessibility, livestock numbers, and area size within the customary system. Thirty questionnaires were completed by local operators. The calculated Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.745) confirmed acceptable reliability. One-Way ANOVA was applied to compare sustainability component averages, and Duncan’s test was used to identify sources of intra-group variability.
Results: The results revealed significant differences in sustainability measurement components across summer rangeland systems, placing them in distinct statistical groups. The environmental-ecological sustainability dimension demonstrated the highest sustainability level (0.612), while the social dimension exhibited the lowest (0.484). According to the Barometer Model, summer rangeland systems are classified as medium to potentially sustainable. Among pastoral units, Ghorule-Olia demonstrated the highest sustainability level (0.548), while Chirkandi recorded the lowest (0.535).
Conclusion: Achieving rangeland sustainability necessitates targeted attention to all dimensions of sustainable development. The economic and social conditions of pastoralists, including their livestock farming practices (mobile or sedentary), influence overall sustainability. Challenges related to welfare, education, healthcare services, insurance support, economic stability, and grazing management must be addressed through comprehensive planning. Despite positive conditions in forage production and soil characteristics, strategic interventions are required to enhance sustainability. Recommendations include diversifying economic activities, increasing productivity, improving educational, extension, and healthcare services, and considering rangeland capacity and readiness.
Keywords: Components of sustainability, barometer model, summer rangelands, social sustainability, environmental-ecological sustainability.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2024/07/28 | Accepted: 2025/03/6 | Published: 2025/03/30
Received: 2024/07/28 | Accepted: 2025/03/6 | Published: 2025/03/30
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