Study goals
Analyze the conditions of pastures in the Central-West region, highlighting two municipalities from each state in this region, selected based on the level of degradation.
Relevance / originality
This study discusses pasture degradation in two principal municipalities of each state in the Central-West region, considering the context of native vegetation loss often associated with livestock activities in the area, which are predominantly carried out through extensive practices.
Methodology / approach
We correlated data provided by IBGE and the Laboratory of Image Processing and Geoprocessing (LAPIG) regarding cattle production, based on herd evolution, with data related to pasture quality for the period from 2012 to 2021.
Main results
The results reveal a trend of decreasing pasture areas alongside an increase in the cattle herd. This scenario may lead to an intensification of pasture degradation processes, but it also presents opportunities for more sustainable land use.
Theoretical / methodological contributions
This study highlights the issue of pasture degradation, as well as its relevance in the implementation of more sustainable production systems, in a region of Brazil where agribusiness is becoming increasingly significant.
Social / management contributions
Opportunities for adopting techniques and technologies aligned with sustainable production and market demands remain a challenge for small farms, implying the need for adaptation by smallholders and support from the government.