The Course will introduce the students with the knowledge of rangelands and their importance as major land use in Pakistan. Students will be able know the characteristics of rangelands of the country and complexities associated with management of rangelands. The course describe the range ecosystem, its components and types of range vegetation in different ecological zones of the country with brief discussion of the botany of range grasses, shrubs and trees, range plant ecology, range animal behavior, rangeland stocking rate and selection of grazing system. There is a comprehensive discussion on principles of scientific management of all the components of range ecosystem and its relation with wildlife.

The key objectives of this course are

• To introduce the students with the rangeland resources and associated wildlife of Pakistan
• To make the students identify major range vegetation types and wildlife species of the country
• To provide information about the problems of rangelands and their scientific management
• To acquaint the students with the grazing systems and range livestock management    

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

The students will be able to learn about the important features of rangelands of the country and their management requirement according to their ecological needs. Students will also be able to identify the range vegetation types, their preservation and quantitative analysis. Students will know the important wildlife species and threats to wildlife population in the country and ways and means to protect them in their native habitats.

READINGS

• Quraishi, M. A. A., G.S. Khan and M. S. Yaqoob. Range Management in Pakistan. (University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. 1993).
• Quraishi, M. A. A. Basics of Forestry and Allied Sciences. (A-one publishers, Lahore. 2012).
• Holechek, J. et al. Range Management, Principles and Practices. (Prentice Hall, Inc. Newberry. USA. 1989).

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

1. Sessional: 8 Marks

1. Quiz: 2 Marks
2. Presentation: 2 Marks
3. Assignment: 2 Marks
4. Attendance: 2 Marks

1. Mid Exam: 12 Marks
2. Final Exam: 20 Marks
3. Practical Exam: 20 Marks