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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #170325
Title: GRAZING LAND CONTRIBUTIONS TO CARBON SEQUESTRATION

Author
item Follett, Ronald
item Schuman, Gerald

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/16/2005
Publication Date: 5/30/2005
Citation: Follett, R.F., Schuman, G.E. Grazing land contributions to carbon sequestration. pp. 265-277. In: D.A. McGilloway (ed). Grassland: A global resource. XX Int'l. Grassland Congress, 25 June-1 July, 2005, Dublin, Irelad. Wageningen Academic Publishers, Wageningen, The Netherlands.

Interpretive Summary: On a global basis, grazing lands sequester substantial amounts of SOC annually. With improved management the potential to sequester carbon on many of these lands can be greatly enhanced. Improved soil C sequestration on grazing lands is an important strategy to assist in mitigating the greenhouse effect. Policies and programs that encourage the conservation of current grazing lands and conversion of marginally productive croplands to perennial vegetation are critical to the implementation of strategies to sequester soil carbon. Additionally, efforts to increase SOC sequestration in grazing lands worldwide will have important co-benefits to the environment.

Technical Abstract: The objectives of this paper were to provide an overview of: (a) the influence of climatic factors and management practices on rates and processes of carbon (C) accumulation and on long-term sequestration; (b) the potential contribution that grazing lands can make to C sequestration and soil C storage; and (c) issues and a current perspective of grazing lands in carbon credit trading. The paper provides information about processes of soil C accumulation and the influence of climate and management as well as its long-term retention.