We are learning how livestock owners in South Africa respond to extreme weather events, and how high-tech weather
forecasts may help them in their work.
Our research is supported by the NOAA Sectoral Applications Research Program
|
|
Climate in dryland ecosystems is more variable than in wetter areas, with droughts more frequent.
The developing field of long range climate forecasting means that an important new source of
information will be available to people living in drylands. But in general, how these forecasts
may benefit livestock owners is not well understood. We are exploring the value of climate
forecasting to livestock ranches and pastoralists, where drought can decrease production and causes
livestock to starve.
We are using interview results to learn how livestock producers in northern South Africa adjust their management to respond
to climate variability and how they use, or might use if packaged well, climate forecasts. We are also
determining the benefit of climate forecasting on humal well-being by using ecosystem and socioeconomic
computer models that incorporate forecasts.
| |
| |
