BOTANICAL COMPOSITION, NUTRITIONAL-STATUS AND CARRYING-CAPACITY OF NATIVE ALPINE PASTURE OF BARA-BANGAHAL FOR SHEEP

Grazing lands of alpine pastures of Bara Bangahal (above 3 170 m msl, Kangra, H.P.) were evaluated for their botanical composition, nutritio nal status and carrying capacity. Agrostis stolonifera, Dactylis glome rata, Andropogon ischaemum and Agropyron spp. provided about 70% cover . CP, cell solubles and Ca were high in August and declined in Septemb er. NDF, ADF and lignin increased with maturity. Trace mineral status was adequate except copper. Sheep (60 and 30 days trial) gained 18.33 g/day and DMI was 3.73 kg/100 kg bw. A low carrying capacity of 2 shee p/ha annum was observed. There is a tremendous scope for the introduct ion of improved species.