Effects of different grazing intensities on some soil physical and chemical properties in southeastern rangelands of Sabalan mountain

Evaluating the effects of different grazing intensities on soil physical and chemical properties is required to achieve appropriate management plans. This study was conducted in three rural areas in Sabalan mountain rangelands. A random systematic sampling method was used to collect soil samples along 600 meters transects. Six composite and 18 intact soil samples were collected using soil sampling cylinders within two depths including 0-15 and 15-30 cm from soil surface. According to the results, soil humidity percent, porosity, particle density, texture, and mean weight diameter were among soil physical charatersitics that were significantly affected by grazing in the study area. Soil organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, pH and EC were also affected by severe grazing pressure. Continuing heavy grazing leads to destruction of soil structure, hence controling grazing intensity is very important to avoid irreversible and inappropriate changes in soil characteristics.