Abstract

Teshome Abate, Abule Ebro and Lisanework Nigatu

Rangelands have multiple uses in drier parts of Africa. However, rangelands in Ethiopia are seriously degrading and under increasing threat. A study was conducted to examine the condition of rangeland, vegetation composition, percentage of bare ground cover, biomass production and grazing capacity under different elevation belts (high and low) and along grazing gradients (heavy, medium and light grazing pressure) using an integrated approach of herbaceous, soil, and woody plants layers. A total of 44 grasses, 2 legumes, 2 sedges, 8 other herbaceous plant species and 45, woody species were identified. Less desirable grass species dominated on the heavily grazed sites while highly desirable grass species were most frequent on the light grazed areas. The mean density of woody species was highest (P<0.05) in heavily (2 654 plants/ha) and in medium (2 668 plants/ha) than in light grazing sites (2 042 plants/ha). Rangelands in both elevation zones had suffered bush encroached and had low values for grass parameters. The total dry matter biomass (1332 kg/ha), dry matter of grass (1144 kg/ha), desirable (611 kg/ha), intermediate (269 kg/ha), least desirable grass dry matter (251 kg/ha) and grazing capacity (5.7TLU/ha) were highest (P<0.05) in lightly grazed sites. The mean total range condition score in the heavily grazed site 25.1 (poor), medium 41.0(fair) and lightly grazed sites 51.9(good) showed the heavily and medium grazed rangelands were deteriorated and urgent action is needed. This emphasizes the importance of stocking rates and proper rangeland management.