Effect of Livestock Grazing Policies on Rangeland Ecosystems in Brazil
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajlp.1954Keywords:
Livestock, Grazing Policies, Rangeland EcosystemsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of livestock grazing policies on rangeland ecosystems in Brazil.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The study highlighted both positive and negative impacts. Properly managed grazing can enhance biodiversity, soil fertility, and vegetation structure, contributing to overall ecosystem health. Rotational grazing, for instance, can mimic natural herbivore movements, promoting plant diversity and reducing soil erosion. However, overgrazing due to ineffective policies can lead to soil degradation, loss of native vegetation, and reduced water quality.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resilience theory, social-ecological systems (SES) framework and land-use/land-cover change (LUCC) theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the effect of livestock grazing policies on rangeland ecosystems in Brazil. In terms of practical implications, regional assessments highlight the importance of adopting adaptive management approaches that account for ecological variability and stakeholder needs. From a policy perspective, regional assessments underscore the need for context-specific policy interventions tailored to the socio-ecological conditions of each region.
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