The effects of grazing on soil

Abstract

Soil is commonly perceived as an inert substance, viewed merely as a medium for plant growth or a passive support system, reflected in the way soil is commonly referred to, as dirt and ground. This perspective often overlooks the dynamic and intricate nature of soil, including its vital role in supporting terrestrial ecosystems and providing essential ecosystem services. Soil encompasses weathered mineral material, water and air, just like dirt does. However, soil teems with a vast array of microorganisms, insects, worms, and plant roots that form intricate ecological networks. These living components actively interact and contribute to vital soil processes such as nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and the maintenance of soil structure and fertility. These living components and the organic matter that is derived from them, are termed as soil organic matter (Grubinger, 2015). Grazing animals are a vital cog in the dynamics of soil organic matter (SOM), as these animals do more than simply eat plants. As these animals eat and drink, they also defecate and urinate. This is organic material derived from living organisms which forms part of the SOM. As the animals move, they also trample plants onto the soil, which are then decomposed by living organisms in the soil. Upon the death of these animals, their bodies will also become part of SOM. Inevitably, grazing animals have an effect on soil. However, whether the effects of grazing is positive or negative, and the degree of those effects, depends on how grazing animals are managed (Savory & Butterfield, 2016).