Journal of Rangeland

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This study aimed to evaluate the effects of various grazing intensity levels on rangeland indices. Various vegetation indices and soil parameters were compared in low, moderate and high grazing pressure in Tolkoloo rangelands-Ardabil province. Three transects were established in each grazing intensity area and 10 plots of 1 m² were placed in each transect and their species composition, density, canopy cover, litter, bare soil, stone and gravel percentages were recorded. Soil samples were collected from zero to thirty cm of soil depth in first, fifth and tenth plots of each transect. The soil parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium, lime, phosphorus, organic carbon, organic matter and the percentages of sand, silt, and clay were measured in all soil samples. One-way analysis of variance and Duncan test were used for analyzing data. The results showed that plants canopy covers were decreased and bare soil, stone, and gravel percentage were increased significantly in severe grazed areas (P < 0/01). Trigonella monspeliaca L. and Astragalus rostratus C.A.Mey. were dominant palatable species in low grazing areas and their canopy cover were 30.94 and 6.44, and their densities were 104.23 and 12.10 stand per one m² respectively. The palatable species canopy covers were decreased by increasing grazing pressure while canopy covers of low palatable species (class II and III) increased. Although high grazing pressure caused a decline in soil organic carbon, clay, potassium, magnesium contents and soil pH, electrical conductivity, phosphorus, calcium, lime, and sand were increased significantly (P < 0/01). Overall, increasing grazing intensity reduced total canopy cover and soil nutrients, modified species composition, and caused instability of rangeland ecosystem. According to the results, grazing gradient framework can be used for range assessment in Moghan plain.
 

Keywords: Grazing intensity, Critical center, Density, Canopy cover, Soil parameters, Ardebil province.

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