What effect does overgrazing have on pasture management?

Overgrazing can lead to land degradation, which is a significant concern in pasture management. When livestock graze beyond the sustainable capacity of the land, it can result in the removal of desirable plant species and the overexploitation of the vegetation present. This allows less resilient species, including invasive plants, to take over, further diminishing the quality of the pasture.

As plants are removed excessively, soil structure can deteriorate, leading to issues such as erosion, reduced soil fertility, and compaction. As a result, the land becomes less productive over time, impairing its ability to support livestock and regenerate natural forage. The decrease in vegetation cover also affects the ecosystem, resulting in a loss of biodiversity and essential habitat for various wildlife species.

In contrast, overgrazing does not improve soil nutrient content or increase forage diversity, nor does it enhance water retention. Instead, the degradation of land due to overgrazing compromises these critical aspects of sustainable pasture management.