A method for dividing and rotating natural grassland and supplementing feeding

Abstract

The application provides a natural grassland zoning rotational grazing and supplementary feeding method, based on multi-source remote sensing data inversion generation of pixel-level continuous spatial distribution of grass yield data, estimates the theoretical carrying capacity of the grassland, and according to the actual carrying capacity of the grassland, the grass-livestock balance is approved, and the spatialization calculation of the grassland carrying pressure is carried out. By coupling the monthly scale pasture dynamic profit and loss model, the livestock population change model and the regenerative grass utilization model, the grass-livestock balance state is dynamically calculated, the grazing time and utilization scheme of the grassland in each season are determined, the grazing scheme in different seasons is made, and the planned rotational grazing plot drawing and the grazing schedule are formed, and the "one livestock group one drawing one table" standardized result package containing accurate geographical boundary and grazing time is generated. The method constructs a complete technical chain from "pixel-level data perception" to "multi-process dynamic decision-making" to "executable blueprint output", and forms an innovative scheme in the spatial partition logic and compatibility with existing facilities.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of grassland restoration and grazing management technology, and relates to a method for zoned rotational grazing and supplemental feeding of natural grasslands, specifically a method for intelligent design of zoned rotational grazing of natural grasslands based on multi-source remote sensing and spatial analysis. Background Technology

[0002] Natural grasslands are important ecosystems and livestock production bases in my country. Their resource characteristics include vast areas, strong spatial heterogeneity, and fragile ecosystems, making them highly susceptible to degradation under excessive disturbance. Scientific grazing management is the core means to resolve the contradiction between grassland ecological protection and utilization, and to improve grassland utilization efficiency. my country's current pastoral management is undergoing profound changes. After the implementation of the grassland contract responsibility system, traditional nomadic grazing is gradually shifting to settled grazing by family units. However, this has led to uneven and fragmented grassland utilization, hindering intensive management. In recent years, to adapt to the development of modern animal husbandry, new organizational models such as cooperatives and joint household management have emerged. Simultaneously, under the national requirements for grassland-livestock balance management, seasonal rotational grazing and rest grazing have become the main grazing methods in my country's pastoral areas. However, how to conduct efficient, fair, and scientific unified planning of contracted grasslands under these new organizational frameworks is a key issue that urgently needs to be addressed to achieve the modernization of grassland animal husbandry.

[0003] While traditional continuous grazing provides livestock with greater freedom in choosing grazing options, it also leads to ongoing problems with grassland resources. Selective grazing by livestock easily creates "grazing patches," resulting in the overgrazing of high-quality forage and the increasing dominance of weeds. Over time, this alters the plant community structure, causing grassland degradation and a decline in biodiversity. Blindly overgrazing without prior assessment of grassland carrying capacity directly degrades the structure and function of the grassland ecosystem. In contrast, rotational grazing divides grasslands into several plots and utilizes them sequentially. By actively controlling grazing time and intensity, it ensures that forage in each plot is utilized efficiently during its most vigorous growth and nutrient-rich phase, and allows sufficient rest and recuperation time after grazing, thus maintaining grassland vitality and stable yield. Furthermore, rotational grazing evenly distributes livestock excrement, promotes soil nutrient cycling, and improves grassland health. Therefore, rotational grazing is an effective technical approach to achieving a balance between livestock and grassland, curbing grassland degradation, and improving grassland utilization.

[0004] Promoting rotational grazing is a crucial step in transitioning from extensive grazing to intensive and refined pasture management, and some cooperatives and demonstration areas have already begun exploring this approach. However, designing a scientifically sound rotational grazing scheme is exceptionally complex, requiring comprehensive consideration of multiple dynamic factors such as the spatial heterogeneity of pasture productivity, herd size and structure, rotational grazing cycles, grazing days in each plot, and the timing of transhumance. Although some methods for rotational grazing design have been explored using 3S technologies (remote sensing, geographic information systems, and global navigation satellite systems), and these technologies have been applied, most existing design methods still face bottlenecks. Firstly, many methods rely on static average data or simple empirical formulas, failing to effectively couple the seasonal dynamics of pasture growth, the monthly variations in livestock demand, and key processes such as the utilization of regenerated grass. This results in schemes with poor adaptability, unable to cope with dynamic changes in actual production. Second, the feasibility of the plan is weak. The existing technology outputs are mostly optimized zoning strategies or theoretical carrying capacity figures. There is a lack of implementation plans that can transform abstract strategies into direct action guidelines on the ground, including precise geographical boundaries and clear timelines. This makes it difficult to implement the plan in the "last mile" from "paper" to "ground".

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for an intelligent design method that can deeply integrate multi-source data, simulate the dynamic process of grassland grazing, and directly output executable solutions. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above shortcomings, this invention proposes a method for rotational grazing and supplemental feeding of natural grasslands. This method aims to accurately assess the spatial heterogeneity of grassland productivity through remote sensing without disrupting existing grassland contracting boundaries, intelligently allocate livestock herds, and optimize the design of grazing plots and schedules. This flexible design framework can be adapted to different management scales, from joint households and cooperatives to entire villages, significantly improving the planning efficiency and practicality of rotational grazing.

[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned technical effects, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] A method for rotational grazing and supplemental feeding in natural grasslands includes the following steps:

[0009] Step S1: Calculate the grass yield of natural grasslands

[0010] An empirical model was established using ground quadrat survey data of the maximum annual hay weight during the growing season and the remotely sensed Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to calculate the maximum annual hay yield, Y. Appropriate remote sensing imagery was selected; for village-level data, a resolution of at least 30 m was recommended. After preprocessing, multiple periods of NDVI throughout the year were retrieved, and the maximum values ​​were combined to obtain the annual NDVI. Based on the acquisition time and latitude / longitude coordinates of the ground quadrat data, the annual average NDVI of nine pixels centered on the sample point was extracted to form a dataset. A mathematical empirical model was then constructed to calculate the maximum annual hay yield, Y.

[0011] Step S2: Calculate the appropriate carrying capacity Non-warm season Non-warm season

[0012]

[0013] in, The appropriate grazing size (sheep unit) for pastures during the non-warm season. K represents the total grass yield of natural grasslands during the non-warm season, U represents the proportion of edible forage grass in the grassland, R represents the daily feed intake of livestock (sheep unit), and T represents the number of grazing days. The appropriate grazing size (sheep unit) for pastures during the warm season. Re represents the total amount of grass produced by natural grasslands during the warm season, and Re represents the growth rate of regenerated grass.

[0014]

[0015] It is recommended to select the grassland with the highest carrying capacity during the season to avoid wasting grassland resources.

[0016] Step S3: Grass-Livestock Balance Assessment

[0017]

[0018] Where Ip is the carrying capacity stress index, Cs is the actual carrying capacity (sheep units), and Cl is the suitable carrying capacity (sheep units). Sheep units are calculated according to national standards for various types of livestock: 1 adult sheep (50kg) is counted as 1 sheep unit (daily feed intake is 1.8kg hay / sheep), 1 young sheep is counted as 0.5 sheep units; 1 adult cow is counted as 4 sheep units, 1 young cow is counted as 2 sheep units; 1 adult horse is counted as 6 sheep units, 1 young horse is counted as 3 sheep units.

[0019] Step S4: Determine the herd size

[0020] Step S41: If Ip < 1, then the carrying capacity is insufficient and the grassland resources are underutilized. It is recommended that the herd size Q be increased to at least the suitable carrying capacity Cl of the natural grassland.

[0021] Step S42: If Ip=1, then the grass-livestock balance is achieved, and the recommended herd size Q=appropriate carrying capacity Cl;

[0022] Step S43: If Ip>1, the grassland is overloaded. If the overload is severe, the number of animals needs to be reduced first, and artificial grassland should be added or forage should be purchased for supplementary feeding. At this time, the herd size Q is the actual carrying capacity Cs after the reduction of animals. If the overload is not high, artificial grassland can be added or forage can be purchased for supplementary feeding. At this time, the herd size Q = the actual carrying capacity Cs.

[0023] Step S5: Determine the clustering scheme

[0024]

[0025] Where Qi represents the average number of livestock (sheep units) in each group, Q represents the herd size (sheep units), and N represents the number of groups, which is determined based on actual conditions (such as the number of grasslands registered in the village, the number of households in the cooperative, etc.). Generally, each group should ideally consist of approximately 500-600 sheep units, determined based on the area and grass yield of the natural grassland where each herd is located, and further subdivided according to the livestock's species, sex, age, weight, and other characteristics to determine the actual number of livestock.

[0026] Winter and spring are seasons with significant fluctuations in livestock numbers. Generally, livestock breeding, production, and slaughter are concentrated in these seasons, so the size of livestock herds tends to decrease in winter. The following formula can be used to estimate the size of livestock herds in winter:

[0027]

[0028] Wherein, Qj is the winter herd size, Qi is the warm-season herd size; Fc is the livestock breeding survival rate, determined based on local statistics; Sc is the sheep unit coefficient, which is the number of young animals born in the current year, generally taken as 0.5 sheep units / sheep unit; and Ch is the livestock slaughter rate, determined based on local statistics.

[0029] Step S6: Determine the rotational grazing plan for livestock.

[0030] Step S61: Determine the number of grazing plots

[0031] The number of grazing plots should be determined based on the total area of ​​the pasture for each livestock herd. If the pasture is registered to a specific household, adjacent pastures of similar size can be assigned to the same livestock herd. It is recommended that the number of grazing plots not exceed 10.

[0032] Step S62: Determine the theoretical number of grazing days for the grazing area

[0033]

[0034]

[0035] in, Theoretically, this represents the number of grazing days in a warm-season grazing area. K represents the total grass production of the grazing area during the warm season, U represents the proportion of edible forage grass in the grassland, R represents the daily feed intake of livestock (sheep unit), Re represents the growth rate of regenerated grass, Qi represents the number of livestock in the warm season group, and Qj represents the number of livestock in the non-warm season group (sheep unit).

[0036] Step S63: Determine the rotational grazing plan for the grazing area.

[0037] Based on seasonal pasture grazing time and the theoretical number of grazing days in grazing areas, and considering the difficulty of rotational grazing in the cold season, rotational grazing can be chosen to be done only in the warm season. In the warm season, the number of days for a single rotation in each area should not exceed 15 days, generally 2-3 rounds, while in the non-warm season, rotational grazing should be done 1-2 rounds.

[0038] Step S7: Determine the winter supplementary feeding and spring rest grazing stall feeding plan.

[0039] Step S71: Determine the amount of supplemental feed for winter.

[0040]

[0041] in, This is for supplemental feeding during winter. K represents the total grass yield of natural grasslands in winter, U represents the proportion of edible forage grass in the grasslands, Qj represents the grassland availability rate, and Qj represents the size of the livestock herd in winter. R represents the theoretical number of grazing days in a winter grazing area, and R represents the daily feed intake of livestock (sheep unit).

[0042] Step S72: Determine the amount of supplemental feed for spring grazing breaks

[0043] The resting period is generally two months before the livestock return to green. The amount of forage required for spring resting and stall feeding should be calculated based on the size of the livestock herd.

[0044]

[0045] in, Qj represents the amount of forage required for grazing in spring, Qj represents the size of the livestock herd in winter, T' represents the number of days of grazing rest, and R represents the daily feed intake of livestock (sheep unit).

[0046] Step S8: Rotational Grazing Infrastructure Design

[0047] Grazing zones are set up using wire mesh fences, barbed wire fences, and other similar methods.

[0048] The width of pasture trails is generally 5m-10m, and their length should be minimized. Gate design should reduce the time livestock spend wandering in and out of the rotational grazing area, avoiding detours to enter the area, and also taking into account the location of water sources.

[0049] Water troughs are set up in rotational grazing areas according to the number of livestock. Livestock are guaranteed to drink water 2-3 times a day in summer and 1-2 times a day in winter.

[0050] Appropriately place licking bricks, back scratchers, and shade facilities within the grazing area.

[0051] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0052] This invention, by integrating multi-source remote sensing data, spatial analysis, and a multi-process dynamic coupling model, achieves intelligent and refined design of rotational grazing zones in natural grasslands, offering the following advantages compared to existing technologies:

[0053] (1) Achieve precise grazing management with a balance between grass and livestock to ensure the sustainable use of grassland resources.

[0054] This invention, based on pixel-level high-precision spatial data of forage yield, achieves precise diagnosis and quantitative control of the forage-livestock balance by calculating theoretical carrying capacity and carrying pressure index grid by grid. This invention significantly improves grazing uniformity, ensuring equal forage supply to each rotational grazing plot within the same grazing cycle. Livestock rotate orderly between different plots, effectively mitigating the "grazing patches" and degradation of high-quality forage caused by selective grazing during continuous grazing. The technical solution includes key elements such as spring rest and winter supplementary feeding, precisely avoiding the vulnerable period of forage greening, providing a critical window for forage growth and community renewal, and ensuring the sustainable use of grassland resources. The technical solution possesses flexibility and buffer space; its design logic based on a monthly-scale dynamic forage profit and loss model allows grazing intensity to adaptively respond to forage growth rhythms and interannual fluctuations, demonstrating good practical operability and significant long-term benefits.

[0055] (2) Significantly improve the scientific nature of decision-making and achieve a fundamental shift from experience-based strategies to data-driven approaches.

[0056] To address the limitations of existing technologies that rely on static optimization or empirical parameter adjustments, a scientific leap in rotational grazing schemes has been achieved by constructing a multi-process dynamic coupling model. The system couples a monthly-scale forage dynamic profit and loss model, a livestock population change model, and a regenerated grass utilization model, enabling dynamic simulation of the annual temporal evolution of the forage-livestock system and overcoming the limitations of a single static model. Furthermore, instead of using traditional, coarse data weighted by the average area of ​​the entire region and the rotational grazing plot area for calculating forage yield and carrying capacity, pixel-level forage yield data is used for grid-by-grid carrying capacity calculation, accurately identifying internal heterogeneity and reducing the unevenness of grazing utilization.

[0057] (3) Significantly improve the operability and scalability of the plan, reduce implementation costs, and increase the acceptance of herders.

[0058] This invention fully respects the existing pattern of grassland contracting to individual households. It optimizes the design based on existing infrastructure such as fences, and while maintaining the basic grassland structure, it achieves the division of rotational grazing areas by adding a small number of internal dividing fences, maximizing the use of existing facilities and saving on fence construction costs. Furthermore, the design framework is flexible and adaptable to different management scales—from single households and joint households to cooperatives and even entire villages. When new herders join a cooperative, only a small number of additional fences need to be added to the existing scheme, and the livestock allocation adjusted; there is no need to start from scratch, significantly improving the dynamic adaptability of the solution.

[0059] This invention transforms abstract strategic plans into rotational grazing plot planning maps containing precise geographical boundaries, areas, and locations, and grazing schedules including the start and end dates of grazing for each plot, forming a "one herd, one..." Figure 1 The standardized deliverables package, known as the "table," allows herders and administrators to directly use the blueprints to install fence stakes and netting, without requiring specialized knowledge, and to relocate their herds according to the schedule. This intuitive and actionable operational guide significantly lowers the barrier to technology promotion, increases herders' acceptance and willingness to cooperate, and lays a solid foundation for the smooth implementation of the plan. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Figure 1 Spatial distribution map of the average annual grass yield in Jiashang Village;

[0061] Figure 2 Map showing the distribution of grassland property rights in Jiashang Village;

[0062] Figure 3 Map showing the distribution of livestock grazing pastures in Jiashang Village;

[0063] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the results of the rotational grazing scheme for livestock herd No. 01.

[0064] Figure 5 This is a spatial distribution map of NDVI in Jiashan Village. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The technical steps of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specifications, using examples.

[0067] Example 1

[0068] Jiashang Village, Senduo Township, Guinan County, Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, was selected as the case study area for the technical solution. Located at 100°45′25″-101°2′2111″ east longitude and 35°20′31″-35°32′53″ north latitude, Jiashang Village comprises two plots of land, east and west, with a total area of ​​223,800 mu (approximately 14,567 hectares). About 67.26% of this is natural grassland, and 20.85% is arable land used for growing crops such as oats, with short-term grazing after the autumn harvest. At an altitude of 3183 m-4083 m, it is a typical high-altitude grassland pasture. The village has an average annual temperature of -0.38 ℃, an average annual precipitation of 468 mm, a total grassland vegetation coverage of approximately 89%, and an average grass height of approximately 7 cm.

[0069] The total area of ​​grassland in Jiashan Village is 12,816 hectares. 2 The grazing is divided into three seasons, with the winter and spring pastures covering an area of ​​6464 hectares. 2 Summer grassland area is 4663 hm² 2 The autumn pasture covers an area of ​​1689 hm² 2 The multi-year average yield per unit area is 1368.07 kg / hm². 2 The yield of grass per unit area in winter and spring pastures was 1457.11 kg / hm². 2 The yield of grass per unit area in the summer pasture was 1322.65 kg / hm². 2 The yield of grass per unit area in the autumn pasture was 1144.27 kg / hm². 2 Traditionally, grazing begins on summer pastures around the tenth day of the fifth lunar month and typically lasts for one and a half to two months. Grazing then moves to autumn pastures around the beginning of the seventh lunar month, also for one and a half to two months. Grazing then moves to cultivated land around the beginning of the ninth lunar month, where grazing takes place for about 20 days after harvest on artificial grasslands. Grazing then continues to winter pastures around the beginning of the tenth lunar month until the tenth day of the fifth lunar month of the following year. Generally, herders with large winter and spring pastures graze for a shorter period on summer pastures, leaving early. Herders with smaller winter and spring pastures graze for a longer period on summer pastures. Regarding rotational grazing, it is primarily practiced by herders within their own pastures, and only a small number of herders engage in rotational grazing.

[0070] Currently, all grasslands in Jiashang Village have been registered and assigned to individual households. To alleviate the problems of grassland degradation and uneven utilization in Jiashang Village, a zoned rotational grazing plan has been designed and formulated based on the actual situation of Jiashang Village using this invention. The specific steps are as follows:

[0071] Step S1: Calculate the grass yield of natural grasslands

[0072] A total of 79 grassland quadrat sampling survey data were used over many years. After rigorous testing and screening, the sampling points were distributed in a basically uniform and representative manner in the calculation area, while ensuring that there were enough of them in Jiashang Village to basically reflect the main grassland types and grass yield over many years in the area.

[0073] The remote sensing data used was from the US Landsat series, with a spatial resolution of 30 m and a temporal resolution of 16 days. Image data was downloaded at the same time as the sampling survey. The 15 downloaded remote sensing images underwent radiometric and atmospheric correction preprocessing, and then the NDVI of each image was calculated using the following formula:

[0074]

[0075] Wherein, NIR is the reflectance in the near-infrared band, and RED is the reflectance in the red band.

[0076] The three NDVI data points obtained each growing season were combined by maximizing their maximum values ​​to obtain a composite image of the annual NDVI maximum values. Based on the collection time and geographic coordinate information of the ground quadrat data, the mean NDVI value within approximately 1 km of each quadrat point was extracted from the NDVI maximum value distribution map of the corresponding year using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, thereby establishing a database of NDVI and corresponding quadrat grass yield.

[0077] A combined ground-remote sensing yield estimation model was constructed by synthesizing selected grass yield sample data with NDVI maximum values ​​extracted using GIS methods during the peak vegetation growth period of the corresponding years from the ground quadrats. Based on the analysis of the scatter plot relationship between grass yield and NDVI in the study area, regression analysis was used to construct univariate linear, logarithmic, power, exponential, and quadratic polynomial regression models. After F-test, the coefficient of determination (R²) of the equation was used... 2 The optimal model was selected by using the square of the correlation coefficient. The accuracy of different models was compared to find the most accurate and suitable model for estimating grassland yield in the demonstration area. Comparison revealed that all established model equations showed good correlations, with the exponential function exhibiting the best correlation and passing the F-test at a highly significant level (0.01). Finally, a natural grassland accounting model was constructed:

[0078]

[0079] The model was used to calculate the grass yield of the natural grassland in Jiashang Village. Figure 1 ).

[0080] Step S2: Calculate the appropriate carrying capacity

[0081] Jiashan Village typically has three types of pastures: winter / spring pasture, autumn pasture, and summer pasture. While respecting the region's traditional customs and maintaining the basic distribution and area of ​​these three types of pastures, the optimal grazing time and optimized transhumance plan were designed based on the productivity of the pastures in each season.

[0082] Calculations show that winter and spring pastures account for 50.44% of the area in Jiashang Village, autumn pastures account for 13.18%, and summer pastures account for 36.39%. The optimal grazing days for winter and spring pastures are calculated to be 189 days (September 24th - March 31st), for summer pastures 92 days (June 1st - August 31st), and for autumn pastures 23 days (September 1st - September 23rd).

[0083] Using GIS spatial statistics tools, the total amount of pasture in winter and spring was 8427.23 t, in summer it was 6890.03 t, and in autumn it was 1718.98 t. Based on relevant standards and the actual conditions of Jiashang Village, the proportion of edible pasture (K) was set at 80%, the grassland utilization rate (U) at 50%, the daily feed intake (R) for livestock (sheep unit) was 1.8 kg of hay / sheep, and the regenerated grass growth rate (Re) was set at 5%.

[0084] Substituting the above parameters into the formula, we can obtain the suitable carrying capacity of winter and spring pastures as 1028 sheep units, summer pastures as 16642 sheep units, and autumn pastures as 16608 sheep units. Therefore, the suitable carrying capacity of Jiashang Village is determined to be 16624 sheep units.

[0085] Step S3: Grass-Livestock Balance Assessment

[0086] Jiashang Village has 35,094 head of herbivorous livestock, including 3,040 yaks, 32,019 Tibetan sheep, and 35 horses. According to national standards, sheep units for each type of livestock are calculated as follows: 1 adult sheep (50kg) is counted as 1 sheep unit (daily feed intake is 1.8kg hay / sheep), 1 young sheep as 0.5 sheep units; 1 adult yak as 4 sheep units, 1 young yak as 2 sheep units; 1 adult horse as 6 sheep units, 1 young horse as 3 sheep units. After conversion to sheep units, the actual carrying capacity of Jiashang Village is 36,621 sheep units, including 10,032 yaks, 26,416 Tibetan sheep, and 173 horses.

[0087] Calculations show that the average carrying capacity index (Ip) of grassland in Jiashang Village is 2.11, indicating that the village as a whole is in a state of overgrazing.

[0088] Step S4: Determine the herd size

[0089] Jiashang Village has an IP value greater than 1, indicating that the grassland is severely overloaded. Furthermore, it is understood that Jiashang Village does not have the budget to purchase fodder for supplemental feeding. Therefore, it is recommended that Jiashang Village first reduce its livestock to a suitable carrying capacity of 16,642 sheep units, i.e., a herd size of 16,642 sheep units.

[0090] Step S5: Determine the clustering scheme

[0091] Based on the herd size of 16,642 sheep units, and with an average of about 500 sheep units per herd, the herd was divided into 30 herds.

[0092] Currently, all grasslands in Jiashang Village have been registered and assigned to individual households, and most have already been fenced off. To reduce waste and damage to the grasslands caused by these fences, the grouping plan needs to fully consider the combined situation of the current registered grassland area and grass yield. Figure 2 Based on the characteristics of livestock such as species, sex, age, and weight, the actual number of livestock and the grazing pastures were determined (Table 1).

[0093] Winter and spring are seasons with significant fluctuations in livestock numbers. Generally, livestock breeding, production, and slaughter are concentrated in this season, so the size of livestock herds will decrease in winter. It is necessary to adjust the herd size according to the formula. Based on local statistics, the livestock breeding survival rate Fc is determined to be 34.29%, the sheep unit coefficient Sc is taken as 0.5 sheep units / sheep unit, and the livestock slaughter rate Ch is 30.73% (Table 1).

[0094] Table 1 Livestock Grouping Information in Jiashang Village

[0095]

[0096]

[0097]

[0098] Step S6: Determine the rotational grazing plan for livestock.

[0099] Step S61: Determine the number of grazing plots

[0100] Based on the total area of ​​grazing pastures for each livestock herd and the distribution of pasture rights, 5-6 grazing areas were allocated to each herd. Ultimately, summer pastures were divided into 177 grazing areas, autumn pastures into 120 grazing areas, and winter / spring pastures into 175 grazing areas. Figure 3 ).

[0101] Step S62: Determine the theoretical number of grazing days and grazing frequency for the grazing area.

[0102] The summer grazing period in Jiashang Village is 92 days (June 1st to August 31st). Rotational grazing is implemented in the summer pastures, with a frequency of twice per year based on relevant national standards and local conditions. The pasture regeneration rate is set at 5%, and the rotational grazing cycle is 46-50 days. The autumn grazing period is 23 days (September 1st to September 23rd), and the winter / spring grazing period is 189 days (September 24th to March 31st). Considering that Jiashang Village is located in the core of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with cold autumn and winter seasons, rotational grazing is difficult, and grassland growth ceases in the cold season, making rotational grazing unstimulating for grassland regeneration. Therefore, rotational grazing is not implemented in the autumn and winter / spring pastures. Taking herd number 01 as an example, the theoretical grazing days for the plot are shown in Table 2-1.

[0103] Table 2-1 Livestock Grouping Information in Jiashang Village

[0104]

[0105] Step S63: Determine the rotational grazing plan for the grazing area.

[0106] Taking herd 01 as an example, the rotational grazing scheme for the herd is shown in Table 2-2 and... Figure 4 As shown.

[0107] Table 2-2 Livestock Rotation Grazing Scheme in Jiashan Village

[0108]

[0109] Step S7: Determine the winter supplementary feeding and spring rest grazing stall feeding plan.

[0110] Step S71: Determine the amount of supplemental feed for winter.

[0111] Taking livestock herd No. 01 as an example, the amount of supplementary feed for livestock in each grazing unit was calculated based on the size of the grazing area and herd, as well as the forage production of the natural grassland (Table 2-3). According to the calculation, the livestock in Jiashang Village need a total of 743.48 tons of supplementary forage in winter.

[0112] Table 2-3 Winter Supplementary Feeding Program for Jiashang Village

[0113]

[0114] Step S72: Determine the amount of supplemental feed for spring grazing breaks

[0115] A spring grazing ban is implemented in Jiashang Village to mitigate the adverse effects of livestock grazing during the crucial greening stage of pasture, thereby promoting and ensuring plant growth and development. According to research, the grazing ban lasts from April 1st to May 31st each year, a total of two months. Based on the size of grazing areas and herds, the total forage requirement for livestock in Jiashang Village during the grazing ban period is estimated at 1327.92 tons.

[0116] Step S8: Rotational Grazing Infrastructure Design

[0117] According to the diagrams in the specific zoning (nomadic) grazing plan, grazing zones are set up using wire mesh fences, barbed wire fences, etc.

[0118] The width of pasture trails is generally 5m-10m, and their length should be minimized. Gate design should reduce the time livestock spend wandering in and out of the rotational grazing area, avoiding detours to enter the area, and also taking into account the location of water sources.

[0119] Water troughs are set up in rotational grazing areas according to the number of livestock. Livestock are guaranteed to drink water 2-3 times a day in summer and 1-2 times a day in winter.

[0120] Appropriately place licking bricks, back scratchers, and shade facilities within the grazing area.

[0121] Comparative Example 1

[0122] The technology based on CN117530234A was implemented in Jiashang Village.

[0123] The core technical features of this patent are: equal-area rotational grazing plots and adjustment of the cattle-sheep mixing ratio and rotational grazing frequency based on empirical rules. The main parameter calculation process and results of the implementation in Jiashang Village are as follows:

[0124] Step 1: Determine the rest and grazing periods. Jiashang Village currently practices three-season grazing, which needs to be adjusted to two-season grazing according to the patented plan. Based on the actual situation of local plant phenology and grassland type, the spring rest period is determined to be April 1st to May 1st, the autumn rest period to be September 1st to September 30th, the warm season grazing period to be June 1st to August 31st, and the cold season grazing period to be October 1st to March 31st.

[0125] Step 2: Calculate the yield of edible forage grass in the grassland. The yield of edible forage grass in the grassland is calculated using the formula... Calculation. Since the patent does not provide a method for estimating grassland yield, the natural grassland yield calculation method of this invention is used here. The warm-season grass yield per unit area in Jiashang Village is 1371.55 kg / hm². 2 The total area of ​​warm-season grassland is 4663.44 hm². 2 The yield of grass per unit area during the cool season was 1417.73 kg / hm². 2 The total area of ​​cold-season grassland is 6463.89 hm². 2 Substituting into the formula, we can obtain the yield of edible forage in warm-season grasslands as 3,198,070.57 kg and the yield of edible forage in cold-season grasslands as 4,582,025.39 kg.

[0126] Step 3: Adjust the ratio of cattle to sheep in mixed grazing. The preset ratio is 1:2 (fewer cattle and more sheep) in the early warm season, 2:1 (more cattle and fewer sheep) in the late warm season, and 1:1 in the cold season.

[0127] Step 4: Determine the number of cattle and sheep to graze. The number of cattle to graze is determined according to the formula. The number of sheep grazed is determined according to the formula. Calculations are performed separately. It is estimated that the average weight of yaks in Jiashang Village is approximately 245 kg, and the average weight of sheep is approximately 50 kg. The daily feed intake for cattle in the early warm season is calculated as 2% of their average body weight, and for sheep as 4% of their average body weight. Substituting these values ​​into the formulas, we get: approximately 2365 cattle and 11587 sheep grazing in the early warm season; approximately 4729 cattle and 5794 sheep grazing in the late warm season; and approximately 2569 cattle and 8786 sheep grazing in the cold season. The actual livestock herd in Jiashang Village consists of 3040 yaks and 32019 Tibetan sheep. The current livestock structure is dominated by sheep, and the projected ratio does not match the actual situation, requiring adjustment of the herd structure. However, the plan does not provide supplementary feeding measures for livestock not grazing.

[0128] Step 5: Determine the frequency of mixed rotational grazing for cattle and sheep. Three times per plot during the early warm season, twice during the late warm season, and once during the cold season. Based on a 92-day summer pasture grazing period, approximately 46 days are needed during the early warm season for three rotational grazings, with each plot grazing for about 10-15 days. However, this does not consider the differences in supply capacity due to variations in forage yield among plots.

[0129] Applying the technical solution of patent CN117530234A to Jiashang Village requires disrupting the village's existing grazing habits, including changing from three-season grazing to two-season grazing, removing fences on pastures with confirmed ownership, and adjusting the herd structure of cattle and sheep, increasing the difficulty of implementing the solution. The solution divides pastures into 6-8 sub-regions for each season based on the principle of equal area distribution, outputting institutional parameters such as the mixed ratio of cattle and sheep and rotational grazing frequency. Based on these parameters, herders need to determine the actual boundary locations of each sub-region on the pasture, arrange the rotational grazing order, and the timing of grazing. The implementation of the solution relies on the herders' secondary interpretation, which carries potential biases such as inaccurate boundary positioning and difficulty in controlling grazing duration. If the sub-region division fails to fully consider the spatial heterogeneity of pasture productivity, and high-yield and low-yield pastures are grouped into the same sub-region, it may lead to a situation where some areas are underutilized while others are overgrazed, resulting in a "waste on one side and overgrazing on the other," weakening the scientific nature of rotational grazing.

[0130] Comparative Example 2

[0131] The technology based on CN110443423A was implemented in Jiashang Village.

[0132] The core technical features of this patent are: determining "qualified" and "degraded" grasslands based on the NDVI threshold (0.4), the average carrying capacity of different zones, and cell matching based on an assignment model. When implemented in Jiashang Village, the calculation process for the main parameters is as follows:

[0133] Step 1: Zoning. Zoning is based on rotational grazing cycles and the number of grazing days per plot. In Jiashang Village, the summer pasture grazing period is 92 days; if calculated based on 10-12 grazing days per plot, approximately 8-9 plots can be divided. Autumn pasture has 23 days, allowing for approximately 2-3 plots; winter and spring pasture has 189 days, allowing for approximately 16-19 plots. Plot division is primarily based on the mathematical relationship between rotational grazing cycles and the number of grazing days, without considering the spatial distribution of grassland productivity as a primary factor.

[0134] Step 2: Herd Sorting. The herds are divided into "preferential herds" (growing / lactating stages) and "regular herds," with preferential herds prioritized for allocation to sub-areas with NDVI > 0.4. Based on the actual carrying capacity of 36,621 sheep units in Jiashang Village, buffer zones or supplementary feeding will be required if some sub-areas cannot meet the herd's needs during the allocation phase.

[0135] Step 3. NDVI Threshold Determination. This patent uses an NDVI threshold of 0.4 to distinguish between "qualified rotational grazing areas" and "degraded rotational grazing areas." The source of this threshold is unclear, and its applicability to different grassland types in Jiashang Village (Artemisia linearis + Poa annua, Artemisia alpineis + Artemisia dwarfis, etc.) is questionable. Figure 5 Spatially, in Jiashang Village, areas with NDVI < 0.4 are not numerous. According to the patented scheme, almost all plots are allocated to preferential livestock herds, so there is no allocation problem, making it difficult to implement in Jiashang Village. Plots with NDVI below 0.4 are simply classified as "degraded" and treated with reduced carrying capacity or supplemental feeding, but the possibility that their actual forage yield can still support moderate utilization is not analyzed.

[0136] The technical solution of patent CN110443423A was applied to Jiashang Village. Based on rotational grazing cycles and the number of grazing days per plot, approximately 8-9 summer plots were divided. An NDVI threshold of 0.4 was used to distinguish between qualified and degraded pastures. Average carrying capacity data for each plot was used, and an assignment model outputs a "herd-plot" matching result. Based on this result, herders need to manually locate the actual position of the corresponding plot on a map, determine the plot boundaries, and the grazing duration. The implementation of this solution also faces uncertainties in boundary identification and scheduling. Furthermore, the applicability of the fixed NDVI threshold needs to be verified, and the average carrying capacity of each plot masks the heterogeneity within the plots, making it difficult for the assignment model to accurately identify overgrazing hotspots.

[0137] When implemented in the same case area, this invention, based on pixel-level continuous spatial distribution of forage yield data, automatically divides rotational grazing plots according to equal productivity using a multi-process dynamic coupling model. It directly outputs a rotational grazing plot planning map containing precise geographical boundaries, area, and coordinates, as well as a grazing schedule with start and end dates for each plot, forming a "one herd, one..." Figure 1The standardized deliverables of the "table" allow herders to construct fences and relocate their herds directly according to the drawings without needing further interpretation. Furthermore, the invention's innovations in spatial zoning logic (based on productivity) and compatibility with existing facilities (maximizing the use of existing fences) further enhance the scientific rigor and practicality of the solution.

[0138] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A method for zoned rotational grazing and supplemental feeding of natural grasslands, comprising: To calculate the grass yield of natural grasslands, an empirical model was established using ground quadrat survey and monitoring data and remote sensing normalized vegetation index to calculate the maximum annual grass yield. Calculate the appropriate carrying capacity based on the highest annual grass yield; The carrying capacity pressure index is calculated based on the actual carrying capacity and the recommended carrying capacity to assess the grass-livestock balance. The herd size is determined based on the results of the grass-livestock balance assessment. The average number of livestock in each group is determined based on the herd size and number of subgroups, and the herd size in winter is estimated. The number of grazing areas is determined based on the total area of ​​pasture for each herd, and the theoretical number of grazing days for each grazing area is determined based on the total grass production of each grazing area. A rotational grazing plan for the grazing areas is then developed. The amount of supplementary feed in winter is determined based on the total amount of grass produced by natural grasslands in winter and the size of livestock herds in winter. The amount of supplementary feed in spring during grazing rest is determined based on the size of livestock herds in winter and the number of days of grazing rest.

2. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The calculation of natural grassland yield includes: An empirical model was established using ground quadrat survey data of the maximum annual hay weight during the growing season and remote sensing normalized vegetation index. Select remote sensing data sources with a resolution of no less than 30 meters, preprocess and invert the normalized vegetation index for multiple periods throughout the year, and perform maximum value synthesis to obtain the annual normalized vegetation index. Based on the collection time and latitude and longitude coordinates of the ground quadrat data, the annual normalized vegetation index mean of 9 pixels centered on the pixel where the sample point is located is extracted to form a dataset. A mathematical empirical model is then constructed to calculate the highest annual grass yield.

3. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The calculation of the suitable carrying capacity includes: Calculate the appropriate grazing livestock size for non-warm season grasslands and warm season grasslands separately; Choose the highest suitable grazing size for livestock in the seasonal pasture as the appropriate carrying capacity.

4. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The formula for calculating the suitable grazing size of livestock on non-warm season grasslands is as follows: The suitable grazing scale for livestock on grasslands during the non-warm season is equal to the total grass production of natural grasslands during the non-warm season multiplied by the proportion of edible forage grass and the grassland utilization rate, divided by the product of the daily feed intake of livestock and the number of grazing days. The formula for calculating the suitable grazing size for livestock on warm-season grasslands is: The suitable grazing size for livestock on warm-season grasslands is equal to the total grass production of natural grasslands in the warm season multiplied by the proportion of edible forage, grassland utilization rate, and regenerated grass growth rate, divided by the product of the daily feed intake of livestock and the number of grazing days.

5. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: Determining the herd size includes: When the carrying capacity pressure index is less than 1, the herd size should be increased to at least the appropriate carrying capacity. When the carrying capacity pressure index is equal to 1, the herd size is equal to the suitable carrying capacity. When the carrying capacity pressure index is greater than 1 and the overloading is serious, the livestock should be reduced first, and artificial grassland should be increased or forage should be purchased for supplementary feeding. The size of the herd is the actual carrying capacity after the reduction. When the carrying capacity stress index is greater than 1 and the overloading level is not high, artificial grasslands should be added or forage should be purchased for supplementary feeding, and the herd size should be equal to the actual carrying capacity.

6. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The formula for determining the average number of livestock in each group is as follows: The average number of livestock in each group is equal to the herd size divided by the number of groups. The formula for estimating the size of livestock herds in winter is: The size of the livestock herd in winter is equal to the size of the livestock herd in the warm season multiplied by the livestock reproduction survival rate and the coefficient of young sheep, and then multiplied by the livestock slaughter rate.

7. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The formula for determining the theoretical number of grazing days in a grazing area is as follows: The theoretical number of grazing days in a warm-season grazing area is equal to the total grass production of the warm-season grazing area multiplied by the proportion of edible forage, grassland availability, and regenerated grass growth rate, divided by the product of the number of livestock in the warm-season herd and the daily feed intake of the livestock. The theoretical number of grazing days in a non-warm season grazing area is equal to the total grass production of the non-warm season grazing area multiplied by the proportion of edible forage grass and the grassland availability rate, divided by the product of the number of livestock in the non-warm season group and the daily feed intake of the livestock.

8. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The formulation of rotational grazing plans for grazing areas includes: The number of grazing areas shall not exceed 10; During the warm season, each neighborhood should not graze for more than 15 days at a time, and grazing should be done in 2 to 3 rounds. Rotational grazing is carried out 1 to 2 times during the non-warm season.

9. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The formula for determining the amount of supplemental feed in winter is: The amount of supplemental feed in winter is equal to the product of the size of the livestock herd in winter, the daily feed intake of the livestock, and the theoretical number of grazing days in the grazing area in winter, minus the product of the total grass production of natural grasslands in winter, the proportion of edible forage grass in the grassland, and the grassland utilization rate.

10. The method of rotational grazing and supplemental feeding according to claim 1, wherein: The formula for determining the amount of supplemental feed for spring grazing rest is as follows: The amount of supplemental feed provided during the spring grazing break is equal to the product of the winter herd size, the number of grazing days, and the daily feed intake of the livestock.

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