Variations in Soil Biological and Biochemical Indicators under Different Grazing Intensities and Seasonal Changes

Abstract

Knowledge of variations in soil biological and biochemical indicators with grazing and seasonal changes is important for assessing soil quality and required management. Lack of proper management could induce irreversible damage to the soil structure; therefore, a seasonal experiment was carried out in Salook National Park, Iran; arranged in a factorial-based randomized complete block design (RCBD) in all seasons of a year. The study area had three plots including a no-hunting area, national park, and protected area. Our data showed that overgrazing has altered the chemical–physical components of the soil with effects on the soil microbiome. The most affected areas are those subjected to the hunting ban and in the summer season. It could be concluded that low grazing intensity while protecting the soil ecosystem structure would increase the biochemical and biological characteristics of the soil and provide adequate conditions for providing forage to the natural herbivores living in this area. In order to preserve the biological resources of the region, it is strongly recommended that the level of protection be increased, especially in areas where hunting is prohibited.