Abstract ID: 3.10083 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Transhumance yak herding practice is an important livelihood strategy for high mountain communities in the Hindu Kush Himalaya region. Adapting to harsh climatic conditions and shortages of fodder, yak herders migrate to lower elevations (2500 to 2800 meters) in winter and move to higher elevations (3000 to 4500 meters) in summer. Traditional knowledge (TK) has played a key role in sustaining the herding practice for generations; however, there has been a gradual decline in TK and practice due to social, economic and political changes. Past studies have focused on analysing key drivers of decline in the practice; however, efforts for documenting and revival of TK in the region were limited. In this context, we conducted a study in Lower Mustang to document TK amidst climatic and non-climatic changes and to explore potential nature-based solutions and other pathways for sustaining the practice. Using rapid appraisal research tools and consultation workshops with the yak herding community and other stakeholders, particularly, representatives of governmental and non-governmental organizations, we gathered information on key drivers of changes, traditional knowledge and practices, and potential pathways for sustaining yak herding. Participatory systematic foresight tools such as casual loop diagrams, impact uncertainty matrices and scenario development were used to identify desired future pathways for integrating TK with nature-based solutions (NBs). Erratic snowfall, growing disaster risks, particularly avalanches, water scarcity and encroachment of non-palatable species in summer pastures were major environmental challenges reported by herders. Outmigration, livelihood shifts, and consequent local labour shortage led to hiring of external herders. Subsequently resulting in decline of traditional sustainable practices such as rotational grazing, collection and use of yak dung, tying yaks at night, and crossbreeding. After the establishment of Annapurna Conservation Area, the officials strictly prohibited traditional burning practices in the pastures, which have also resulted in uncontrolled growth of weeds in the pastures. All these had adverse impacts on ecology of the pastures. Key actions for improving health of pastures to sustain yak herding include incentivising and capacity building of external herders as well as integrating TK with NBs into local ecosystem management following participatory ecosystem management.