Rangekäsitsemine

Rangekäsitsemine, commonly translated as "range management" or "grazing management," is the practice of regulating the use of rangelands by livestock. Rangelands are vast, semi-arid or arid grasslands, savannas, and shrublands that are not typically cultivated or irrigated. Effective range management aims to maintain or improve the health and productivity of these ecosystems while ensuring their sustainable use for livestock production and other benefits like wildlife habitat and watershed protection.

Key principles of range management include understanding the ecological capacity of the land, controlling the timing, intensity, and duration of grazing, and monitoring vegetation and soil conditions. Different grazing systems, such as rotational grazing or continuous grazing, are employed depending on the specific rangeland type, climate, and livestock species. The goal is to prevent overgrazing, which can lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and desertification.

Successful range management requires a combination of ecological knowledge, practical experience, and adaptive strategies. It involves balancing the needs of livestock with the ecological processes that sustain the rangeland. This often includes managing water sources, controlling invasive species, and implementing fire management practices. The long-term objective is to ensure that rangelands remain productive and resilient for future generations.