Investigating the changes in the prodcution and consumption of Stipa Hohenackeriana Trin. and Rupr in Kordan rangelands of Alborz

Stipa hohenackeriana Trin. and Rupr. is one of the proper forage plants for supplying the required forage for animals and soil conservation in different rangelands, particularly those in Kordan region. The present study was carried out in Kordan rangelands of Alborz, during five years, in an attempt to analyze the productive features as well as the consumption rate of the forage of Stipa hohenackeriana Trin. and Rupr. Accordingly, during the grazing season and as soon as the livestock entered the rangelands, the amount of the forage remained from livestock graze was harvested at one-month intervals until the livestock left the rangelands. The consumption rate was determined by subtracting the harvested forage from the grazed rangelands and those obtained from the fenced plot. Afterwards, for investigating the effect of the harvest years and month on the production and consumption of the species under analysis in the study area, the obtained amounts were analyzed. Generally speaking, the results indicated that the highest and the least amounts of Stipa hohenackeriana were produced in the fourth and the first years, respectively. A similar result was obtained regarding the consumption rate. In addition, it was found that Stipa hohenackeriana’s growth and forage production periods were in spring. The growth and production rates of this plant were maximal in April and gradually decreased toward July. The forage of this plant was extensively grazed by livestock during May. It appears that by the completion of the stages of growth, the plant turns woody and this reduces the tendency of livestock for eating it. As a result, less amount is consumed by livestock.