Assessing the Impact of Grazing on Vegetation in Alpine Pastures of the Kashmir Himalayas

Abstract

This study delves into the evolving vegetation cover in the Kashmir Himalayas, exploring the intricate relationship between herder migration, unmanaged grazing, and climate responses. It assesses the impact of herder migration and grazing practices on plant density and diversity across gradients and contrasting grazing regimes. The study highlights the destruction of wild ungulate habitats due to overgrazing, emphasizing the need to evaluate vegetation dynamics to understand the repercussions on wild fauna responses. Field surveys with standardized protocols show nuanced patterns: Native plant density rises, and invasive species density falls with distance from roads. Regression analyses showed significant relationships between vegetation characteristics and environmental variables such as altitude and proximity to roads. Comparative analyses between Local Herders and Seasonal Bakerwals provide insights into vegetation variables across grazing regimes. Findings suggest road proximity significantly shapes plant species distributions, with native species density increasing and invasive species density decreasing as distance from roads increases. Additionally, altitude influences plant diversity, with native diversity increasing and invasive diversity decreasing at higher altitudes. The study underscores the complex interplay between human activities and environmental factors in shaping vegetation dynamics, offering valuable insights for conservation strategies amidst evolving environmental pressures in the Kashmir Himalayas.