Pasture degradation evaluation study in the Middle Gobi (Mongolia)

In view of the increased load on rangeland of the Middle Gobi, their condition significantly deteriorated. The purpose of our work is to assess the impact of overgrazing on the territory of Adaatsag district and verification of the methodology for its studying in the arid steppe zone. We have used three types of methods for assessing and comparing the effects of overgrazing. The method for assessing the degradation of ecosystems in Mongolia was developed by Soviet-Mongolian specialists [Gunin et al., 1989]. The method of indicating the state of soils was used in the USA for monitoring of pastures [Pellant et al., 2000]. Methods of control over land use and introduction of state certification were introduced by the Administration of Land Affairs, Geodesy and Cartography of Mongolia (1995). The total area of degraded lands is 72,695 hectares (total pasture area - 329,130 hectares). In comparison with the data of the research carried out in 1992 by the Administration of Land Affairs, Geodesy and Cartography of Mongolia, the areas of pasture degradation increased by 37.5%. The main reason for the degradation of pastures is an extraordinary year- round use. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the climatic conditions: a severe drought has aggravated the condition of pasture lands over the past few years.