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Herd 'round the World
The Society for Range Management assigned the theme "Herd 'round the World" to the 2026 National Meeting in Monterey, California. In preparation for that meeting, our team explored what the theme means in the context of ecosystem health and services, global sustainability, and rangeland management practices.
WHAT IS GLOBAL PASTORALISM?
Global pastoralism is the practice of raising livestock on natural rangelands across the world, often in environments where crop farming is difficult or impossible. Herders manage animals by relying on native forage and water resources. Many pastoral systems use seasonal movement to follow changing rainfall and vegetation, allowing rangelands time to recover and remain productive.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Pastoralism connects people, livestock, and landscapes in a dynamic relationship that supports both livelihoods and ecosystems. Pastoral communities apply generations of ecological knowledge to manage vast rangelands, influencing plant diversity, soil health, and wildlife habitat. Today, these systems play a vital role in global food security, local food availability, and rangeland stewardship. As climate and land-use pressures grow, understanding global pastoralism helps ensure resilient rangelands and sustainable futures, truly a “Herd ’round the World.”
HOW DOES PASTORALSIM CONTRIBUTE TO
GLOBAL SUSTANABILITY?
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Climate Change Mitigation: Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhanced carbon sinks.
Food Security: Sustainable livestock production and forage availability.
Biodiversity Conservation: Habitat protection for native species, including pollinators and food sources.
Resilience to Environmental Change: Adaptation to climate variability and extreme weather events.
HOW CAN WE PROTECT GLOBAL PASTURES?
Sustainable Livestock Grazing: Proper grazing practices to prevent overuse and degradation.
Restoration Efforts: Active reclamation and revegetation of degraded lands.
Policy and Management: Evidence-based land-use policies promoting conservation and sustainable practices.
Cultural Practices: Respect for traditional land
management and stewardship practices.
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