Overgrazing occurs when plants are exposed to intensive grazing for extended periods, or without sufficient recovery periods, leading to the degradation of the vegetation cover and soil. This can result in soil erosion, reduced soil fertility, and decreased biodiversity, ultimately compromising the land’s ability to support livestock.
Overgrazing is a significant concern in many of Kenya’s pastoral areas, where livestock density is high, and the pressure on land resources is intense. It can lead to the desertification of rangelands, reduced water quality, and increased vulnerability to invasive species, adversely affecting the environment and local livelihoods.
Examples:
- The consequences of overgrazing in Kenya can include diminished pasture productivity, increased soil erosion, and reduced availability of high-quality forage for animals.
- Mitigation strategies might involve implementing rotational grazing, reducing livestock numbers, or supplementing natural forage with feed, especially during dry seasons or drought conditions.
Addressing overgrazing involves adaptive management strategies that align livestock numbers with the carrying capacity of the land, ensuring sustainable livestock production and the preservation of rangeland ecosystems.
Related Terms: Carrying capacity, Rotational grazing, Land management, Desertification, Soil conservation
