Variability of soil quality as a result of dynamic grazing impacts

Preserving the soil quality of pasture ecosystems is a key factor in the production of high-quality forage for livestock and in ensuring food security at the national level. For effective land-use planning and sustainable management of pasture resources in Kazakhstan and other countries, the assessment of soil quality and the dynamics of changes in its properties under the impact of livestock grazing is of significant practical importance. The present study is aimed at assessing the current condition of pasture soils in Western Kazakhstan using classical field methods and laboratory analyses. The objective of the research was to evaluate the state of the soil cover depending on grazing management practices as a significant anthropogenic factor in the degradation of pasture ecosystems. The study conducted in the semi-desert zone of Western Kazakhstan at the «Mirаs» peasant farming enterprise demonstrated that rotational grazing is the most effective method for preserving soil quality compared to intensive grazing without a rest period. The physicochemical properties of the soil showed variability under grazing pressure, while optimal indicators of soil bulk density, structure, humus content, available phosphorus, and exchangeable sodium were recorded in pastures managed under regulated rotational grazing. The obtained results can be used to assess pasture soil quality, develop measures to prevent degradation, and analyze agricultural lands in regions with similar pasture ecosystem management systems.