Uses of Rangelands and the Relationship Between Demographic Factors and Rangeland Consumption Patterns

Yadullah Mahmodi; Yasin Kawsar; Rahmatullah Karimi; Mohammad Bonyadi

doi:10.62810/jnsr.v4i3.416

Authors

Yadullah Mahmodi Daykundi University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, Daykuni, AF
Yasin Kawsar Daykundi University, Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Daykuni, Afghanistan
Rahmatullah Karimi Daykundi University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, Daykuni, AF
Mohammad Bonyadi Daykundi University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, Daykuni, AF

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62810/jnsr.v4i3.416

Keywords:

Demographic factors, Fuel materials, Nili Patterns of use, Rangelands

Abstract

Rangelands are one of the most important renewable natural resources in rural Afghanistan. They are crucial for the livelihoods of rural communities, especially farmers and pastoralists, because they provide forage for livestock, fuel, industrial and medicinal materials, and numerous ecosystem services. This study examines the importance and uses of rangelands from the perspective of local communities in Daykundi Province (case study: Nili District) and analyses the relationship between demographic factors and rangeland use patterns. By understanding the various uses of rangelands, the study aims to develop effective, well-planned management strategies to prevent rangeland degradation and decline. The study addresses a practical problem and employs a descriptive-analytical method. Data were collected through 377 questionnaires based on local residents' perceptions and analyzed using chi-square tests in SPSS. Major rangeland uses comprised winter forage provision (87.3%), fuel materials (77.2%), livestock grazing (76.7%), and therapeutic use of medicinal plants (77.2%). The Chi-Square Tests revealed that gender, age, level of education, and type of occupation are significant in certain patterns of rangeland use, but most relationships were weak to moderate. The findings emphasize the need to consider social factors in rangeland management and conservation and suggest that participatory and education-based approaches, along with introducing alternative sources of forage, fuel, and other uses, can help ensure the sustainability of these resources. These findings provide actionable insights for resource managers to develop targeted rangeland policies aligned with local socio-demographic needs.

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