Selection of Appropriate Estimation Methods of Range Conditions (Case Study: Kabirkooh Rangelands of Zagros, Iran)

The range conditions explain its health as a management tool. Obviously, the implementation of this important assessment requires the most appropriate study method for each region. In order to select the most appropriate methods of range conditions in Kabirkooh grasslands of Zagros in Iran, five estimation methods (i.e. six-factor, four-factor, vegetation and soil combination, value of pasture and climax) were studied in three key and critical areas. In each area, five stations were selected using the randomized-systematic method. The differences between methods were analyzed using the factorial experiment by the help of the randomized complete blocks design with five replications. The results showed that there were significant differences (p<0.01) between both range conditions’ determination methods and different areas. Regarding Kabirkooh rangelands in current circumstances, four-factor method for semi-arid region is more applicable for the range condition determination. Biomass production and range conditions had a close relationship using Pearson correlation test (p<0.01, r=0.86).