Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
مرتع 2025, 19(2): 195-207 |
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Factors affecting the Generational Sequence of Animal Husbandry in Khaf County. مرتع 2025; 19 (2) :195-207
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1298-en.html
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1298-en.html
Abstract: (496 Views)
Background and objectives: Pastoralism, as a fundamental pillar of livelihood -particularly among nomadic and rural communities-plays a vital role in ensuring economic stability and nutritional security. This livelihood largely depends on rangelands and their forage resources. However, challenges related to generational succession and employment remain significant threats to the long-term sustainability of this sector. This study aims to investigate the causes underlying generational transition and assess the job satisfaction of pastoralists, with the goal of identifying effective solutions to support the continuity of pastoral activities, preserve this valuable industry, and contribute to sustainable development.
Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted in Khaf County, Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran. A researcher-designed questionnaire was developed, whose content validity was confirmed by field experts. Reliability analysis using Cronbach’s alpha yielded a coefficient of 0.80, indicating acceptable internal consistency. For data collection, cluster sampling was employed: nine rangeland units were selected from a total of 52, and questionnaires were randomly administered to members within these units. The required sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula, resulting in 52 respondents. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, utilizing descriptive statistics including frequency distributions and percentages.
Results: The majority of pastoralists in the study region held an elementary-level education (21.6%), and a significant proportion (43.1%) reported 30 to 40 years of pastoral experience. Livestock farming was inherited from parents in 100% of respondents’ cases. The interest of pastoralists’ children in continuing the profession ranged from moderate to high: 29.4% of respondents perceived moderate interest, while 54.9% reported high interest. Educational and extension programs provided by relevant organizations were generally assessed as weak. Nonetheless, pastoralists demonstrated a strong willingness to transmit their knowledge and experience to younger generations. Job satisfaction measures indicated an overall moderate level of satisfaction in Khaf; 45.1% of respondents expressed a positive outlook toward pastoralism, and an equal proportion were satisfied with the social status of the profession. Statistical analysis revealed a positive and significant correlation between the heritability of livestock farming and the willingness to transfer experiences to the next generation (correlation coefficient = 0.433, p < 0.05), suggesting that stronger familial inheritance is associated with a greater propensity for knowledge sharing. Furthermore, favorable societal attitudes towards livestock farming significantly influenced pastoralists’ willingness to share knowledge (correlation coefficient = 0.507, p < 0.01). Collectively, both heritability and societal perceptions play critical roles in promoting continued knowledge transfer within pastoral communities.
Conclusion: Although the younger generation exhibits moderate to high interest in continuing pastoralism, insufficient infrastructure and economic challenges constitute major obstacles to sustained engagement in the profession. Therefore, strategic planning by relevant institutions should prioritize the provision of essential welfare services and the enhancement of job and income security for pastoralists. Additionally, implementing targeted training and extension programs for youth, alongside initiatives to encourage young individuals to pursue pastoral livelihoods, could further support generational continuity and the sustainable development of this sector.
Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted in Khaf County, Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran. A researcher-designed questionnaire was developed, whose content validity was confirmed by field experts. Reliability analysis using Cronbach’s alpha yielded a coefficient of 0.80, indicating acceptable internal consistency. For data collection, cluster sampling was employed: nine rangeland units were selected from a total of 52, and questionnaires were randomly administered to members within these units. The required sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula, resulting in 52 respondents. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, utilizing descriptive statistics including frequency distributions and percentages.
Results: The majority of pastoralists in the study region held an elementary-level education (21.6%), and a significant proportion (43.1%) reported 30 to 40 years of pastoral experience. Livestock farming was inherited from parents in 100% of respondents’ cases. The interest of pastoralists’ children in continuing the profession ranged from moderate to high: 29.4% of respondents perceived moderate interest, while 54.9% reported high interest. Educational and extension programs provided by relevant organizations were generally assessed as weak. Nonetheless, pastoralists demonstrated a strong willingness to transmit their knowledge and experience to younger generations. Job satisfaction measures indicated an overall moderate level of satisfaction in Khaf; 45.1% of respondents expressed a positive outlook toward pastoralism, and an equal proportion were satisfied with the social status of the profession. Statistical analysis revealed a positive and significant correlation between the heritability of livestock farming and the willingness to transfer experiences to the next generation (correlation coefficient = 0.433, p < 0.05), suggesting that stronger familial inheritance is associated with a greater propensity for knowledge sharing. Furthermore, favorable societal attitudes towards livestock farming significantly influenced pastoralists’ willingness to share knowledge (correlation coefficient = 0.507, p < 0.01). Collectively, both heritability and societal perceptions play critical roles in promoting continued knowledge transfer within pastoral communities.
Conclusion: Although the younger generation exhibits moderate to high interest in continuing pastoralism, insufficient infrastructure and economic challenges constitute major obstacles to sustained engagement in the profession. Therefore, strategic planning by relevant institutions should prioritize the provision of essential welfare services and the enhancement of job and income security for pastoralists. Additionally, implementing targeted training and extension programs for youth, alongside initiatives to encourage young individuals to pursue pastoral livelihoods, could further support generational continuity and the sustainable development of this sector.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2024/11/15 | Accepted: 2025/06/15 | Published: 2025/07/1
Received: 2024/11/15 | Accepted: 2025/06/15 | Published: 2025/07/1
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