Techniques of Survey of Vegetation Cover and Determination of Carrying Capacity

Abstract

A training course on rangeland restoration and sustainable management was held at the Institut des Régions Arides Branch in Kebili on February 28-29, 2024, under the OneCGIAR Livestock and Climate Initiative. The course aimed to enhance the capabilities of staff from the Office of Livestock and Pasture (OEP) and the Commissariat Regional de Développement Agricole (CRDA) in vegetation cover survey and management. Objectives included gaining knowledge in environmental sciences, acquiring skills for data collection and analysis, and determining carrying capacity for suitable grazing management.

The course was attended by 28 participants, including 12 women. Practical applications of techniques such as the Line Point Intercept (LPI) method and various quadrat sizes were used to characterize and determine key vegetation cover attributes and soil surface states. The incorporation of the minimal area concept within the quadrat method underscored the training's commitment to obtaining accurate estimates of species richness, plant density, and biomass production, which are particularly vital in arid and desert environments.

The collaborative pledge to implement sustainable practices, fortify protective measures, and amplify community engagement is pivotal for conserving the rangelands' resilience and vitality. This training represents a significant step towards a future where these vital ecosystems not only persist but thrive harmoniously with the needs of communities and the broader ecosystem.