The successful collaboration between the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Balochistan Forest and Wildlife Department resulted in a pivotal two-day Rangeland Resource Assessment and Mapping Workshop on November 13 and 14, 2023. Sponsored by the European Union-funded Revival of Balochistan Water Resources Program (RBWRP), the initiative aims to enhance income and food security in targeted river basins through sustainable agriculture and livestock farming systems, with a core focus on equitable water and rangeland resource management.
In the inaugural session, Mr. Waleed Mehdi, FAO's International Programme Coordinator in Balochistan, emphasized the workshop's significance for rangeland management. Dr. Faizul Bari, the Natural Resource Management Advisor, outlined the workshop's primary objective—to provide stakeholders with a platform for consultation and knowledge-sharing on the latest rangeland survey techniques. The insights gained will integrate into ongoing survey initiatives in Balochistan's four river basins.
Acknowledging the vital role of Balochistan's rangelands in livestock feed, Dr. Bari noted their decline due to mismanagement and climate changes, underscoring the need for coordinated restoration efforts. The workshop, attended by experts, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers, facilitated discussions on innovative methods and technologies applicable to rangeland survey and mapping. Key themes included challenges and opportunities in rangeland assessment, sustainable agricultural practices, livestock farming, and equitable water management for enhanced food security.
Acknowledging the vital role of Balochistan's rangelands in livestock feed, Dr. Bari noted their decline due to mismanagement and climate changes, underscoring the need for coordinated restoration efforts. The workshop, attended by experts, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers, facilitated discussions on innovative methods and technologies applicable to rangeland survey and mapping. Key themes included challenges and opportunities in rangeland assessment, sustainable agricultural practices, livestock farming, and equitable water management for enhanced food security.