MART-AZR Project Research Report 22: Introduction of Fourwing Saltbush (Atriplex canescens) into Degraded Rangelands in Upland Baluchistan.

Abstract

The rangelands of upland Baluchistan have all arid to·. semi-arid continental-Mediterranean climate. . Production of sheep and goats is the main agricultural activity. Range stocking densities have increased six-fold in 30 years. Feed deficits are becoming more serious as ranges retrogress. Range forage is deficient in both quantity and quality during critical periods in the production cycles of small ruminants. To help mitigate range degradation and increase forage production the Arid Zone Research Institute is testing plants and planting methods to introduce new grasses and shrubs into these ecosystems. Fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens) has the drought resistance, salinity tolerance, soil adaptability, evergreen habit, forage productivity, and high nutritive value needed. Present studies show that fourwing saltbush transplants can survive on dry, windy sites with one at-planting irrigation, can be transplanted into established grass stands, and can produce at least 8,000 kg (DM)/ha of forage under optimum soil moisture conditions.