Journal de la biodiversité et des espèces menacées

Grassland Management for Climate Change Adaptation and Watershed Protection in Karnali Watershed Area

Abstract

Kabi Prasad Pokhrel

Natural grasslands cover approximately 14% of geographical area of Nepal and are important areas in terms of biodiversity and sources of forage for wild and domestic animals, and for medicinal and herbal plants. Karnali watershed area is very sensitive and need of scientific management of highland grasslands which are rich in number of plants and animal species that have significant role and contribution in national economy and ecology. However, these grass lands are in threat and exist in their natural state within protected areas as neighbouring grasslands and forest habitats have been rapidly degraded. At Higher altitudes, trans-Himalayan and alpine rangelands are home to a diverse array of wildlife and are grazed by livestock, which are an integral part of the livelihood of several different ethnic groups. However, these grasslands are being overgrazed, little is known about the ecology and sustainability of prevailing land use practices. The prime concern of the paper is to address the existing issues, challenges along with biodiversity characteristics of the higher altitude grasslands. Thus, the focus of the paper is to point out the major grassland ecological research conducted to date and devise effective research and management strategies suggested to management of grassland beyond the protected areas and adjoin areas. Discussion of the paper explores some applicable measures to high elevation grassland management strategies with active participation of local communities with a view to provide comprehensive policy guidance for the management of grasslands and shrub lands in the Karnali region.