research on livestock management in droughts by nomads

Purpose: every nation’s indigenous knowledge has enabled people to meet their needs without wasting resources, which can be applied to create a more sustainable future. this study sought to gain insights into the indigenous knowledge of some iranian nomadic tribes in terms of how they manage drought conditions on nomadic pastures. selected tribes in ardabil, bushehr, chaharmahal, bakhtiari, mazandaran, golestan, and semnan provinces in iran were selected. methods: a qualitative approach was adopted for this study. specifically, a multiple case study approach will be used with reference to the theories of symbolic interaction and ethnographic methodology. the data collection method included in-depth individual and group interviews, participatory observation and focused group discussion techniques. the sampling method was purposeful and theoretical. semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with nomads to explore indigenous knowledge of drought management until theoretical saturation was reached. data were recorded on paper, and the results were analyzed item by item by adapting the method of postmodern ethnography using a descriptive model.results: the results showed the nomads were implementing a range of solutions to address drought conditions, including moving livestock to areas with food sources, managing water resources (e.g., the hanare system or livestock watering every other day, constructing traditional water storage structures, and water supply by tanker), and livestock management (removing livestock fattening and finally selling livestock).conclusion: during droughts, nomadic herders try to keep the herd in the same condition as before the drought or with minimal changes through different management methods. it seems that providing legal facilities in such periods can lead to the stability of nomadic livestock farming.