Llama and Cattle Grazing Effects on Hydrological Function in a High-Elevation Mountain Rangeland

Abstract

The impact of cattle versus llama grazing on hydrologic soil function was measured in poor and regular-condition high-elevation ecological sites, under deferred grazing system. A randomized, 2×2 factorial design with covariance was used, where the factors were animal species and rangeland condition, with repeated measures. Rangeland hydrology parameters were biomass, litter, soil bulk density, infiltration rate, and soil moisture. Results showed that following deferred grazing, there was more biomass and litter available in regular-condition paddocks, where hydric response was also better. Llama paddocks also had more biomass and litter and less soil compaction resulting in a greater infiltration rate than cattle paddocks. Further evaluation of the role of deferment and camelid grazing in maintaining and improving the hydrologic function of rangeland ecosystems is needed.