FORAGE DISTRIBUTIONS, RANGE CONDITION,AND THE IMPORTANCE OF PASTORAL MOVEMENT IN CENTRAL ASIA - A REMOTE SENSING STUDY

摘要

the distribution of resources, the importance of movement, the degree to which movements have been altered, and the consequences for rangeland condition. The analyses revealed spatio-temporal patterns of precipitation, forage, water, and topography which necessitate movement and adaptability. Although traditional regional scale migrations have been lost, the analyses suggested that smaller scale movements, coupled with appropriate stocking rates, can partially avert the negative consequences of complete seden-tarization for pastoral production and rangeland condition. To maintain or improve pastoral productivity and sustainability in Central Asia, it will be essential to integrate the spatial distributions of forage, water, climate, and the effects of alternative livestock movements on the condition of the livestock as well as the condition of the rangelands.