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Pastures_in_the_Eastern_Slopes_of_Palestine.pdf | 1.78 MB |
Pastures in general and in the eastern slopes in particular have a great role in local livestock sector. Recently, local pastures witnessed a great deal of deterioration. This affects local livestock operations. The objectives of this study were to examine the pastures through different aspects as the plant cover, habitat, problems of overgrazing and those related to the Israeli occupation authority. A well-constructed questionnaire was implemented to obtain data required from the total livestock farmers of about 1600. The study showed that only 20% of the pasture areas in the eastern slopes are accessible by farmers compared to the area before 1967. This limited area is not completely free for grazing as farmers in that district utilize some of the area in cultivation of some field crops. The study showed the limitation of water in the studied area where water is provided though water tanks. More than 70% of farmers in the area of the study are lacking in social, health and veterinary services. It was concluded from the study that plant cover in area is enough for only 10% of livestock population. Some recommendations were given to help improving the conditions of the eastern slopes pastures.