Description of practice
The practice of pasture monitoring enables timely detection of changes in the condition and productivity of pastures caused by both anthropogenic and climatic factors. It also facilitates assessment of such changes in order to prevent and control pasture degradation.
| Examples of how to use pasture monitoring | Further information (see Note below) |
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Grazing Response IndexThe Grazing Response Index is calculated by managers to evaluate the frequency and intensity of pasture grazing and periods of recovery. This enables them to determine which pasture to use next and to estimate intensity of use. |
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Monitoring vegetation cover indexA Vegetation Cover Index is calculated annually, derived from measurements of woody and herbaceous cover and woody species diversity. The index is used to monitor changes in ecological status with reference to an initial benchmark. |
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Monitoring the condition of pasturesGeoreferenced monitoring of pasture condition is carried out in 1 m2 sample plots. The plots are photographed and soil threat severity, vegetation height and cover (of palatable and non-palatable species) and fodder yield are recorded. The purpose is to detect and assess changes in condition and productivity to prevent pasture degradation. |
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Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.