ASSESSMENT OF FORAGE STOCKING RATE UTILIZATION FOR LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN GAMAWA AREA OF BAUCHI STATE

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the forage stocking rate and utilization by livestock in Gamawa area of Bauchi. Descriptive statistics as the analytical techniques use to achieve the objectives of the study. A grazing monitoring stick (GMS) was a user-friendly tool for measuring and monitoring the utilization of pastureland and rangelands. Thirty measurements for each key species across pasture were measured. The findings of the study revealed that, Urochloamosambicensis has 48 percent of height removed and 27 percent used by weight. For the Zornia glochidiata60 percent of height removed and 57 percent used by weight. Alysicapusveginalishas 55 percent of height removed and 40 percent used by weight and Cenchrusbiflorus has 40 percent of height removed and 28 percent used by weight.Orochloamosambicensis, Alysicarpusveginalis and cenchrusbiflorus has lower percent by weight which is normal while Zornia glochidiatahas higher percent by weight which is an indication of danger. The research recommends that improve variety need to be provided such as stylo varieties to overcome loss of valuable species.