Analysis of knowledge mechanisms of pastoralists in the conservation and rehabilitation of rangelands in the Jajarm city, Northern Khorasan province

The object of this study was to investigate the knowledge mechanisms of pastoralists in the conservation and rehabilitation of rangelands in the Jajarm city of North Khorasan province. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire that was interviewed by 10 experienced pastoralists using the snowball method. The results showed that the conservation and restorative knowledge of rangeland pastoralists in the study area had a significant difference in 99% confidence level and their conservation knowledge was more than their restorative knowledge in rangeland management. Findings from wald test showed that the variables of experiencing as stocking holders, dependence on rangelands and participation in training and participating in courses on conservation and restorative knowledge of pastoralists in rangelands were positive and significant and variable level of literacy also has a negative and significant effect. So that the independent variables were able to estimate 31.1% of the variance changes of the knowledge of pastoralists in the rangelands (R2 McFadden = 0.311). Considering that rangeland sustainability is affected by the level of knowledge and awareness of stake holders about conservation, rehabilitation and improvement programs, and consequently the level of participation of rangeland pastoralists as the main beneficiaries of rangelands, it is possible through training and focused sessions tried to transfer local knowledge and experiences and successful models in other areas to pastoralists so that their level of knowledge will improve in line with sustainable rangeland management policies to reach the relative ideal.