Grasslands Supporting Livestock and Human Nutrition

A former researcher and professor at Oregon State University, Dr. A. Morrie Craig spent most of his career studying biophysics and veterinary toxicology. Dr. Morrie Craig was scheduled to attend the International Grassland Congress (IGC) Conference this year, but the event has been postponed until next year.

The IGC Conference brings together professionals in the field of agriculture to share their expertise. A few years ago, the Assistant Director at the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, David Miano Mwangi, discussed the various types of grasslands in East Africa.

According to a 2017 article, grasslands comprise 26 percent of the world landmass and 80 percent of the agricultural area. Globally, grasslands contribute significantly to livestock products, including meat, milk, fiber, and manure.

Livestock, which relies heavily on grassland, contributes to 40 percent of the agricultural output. In poor households, livestock animals are necessary assets.

The importance of finding sustainable measures to support livestock is related to food security. Grassland sustainability has become important for supporting livestock production because the world population is expected to outpace current meat demands. By 2050, meat consumption is expected to double current demands.