Prediction of High Andean Grasslands Biomass in the Upper Zone of the National Sanctuary of Ampay, Peru, for Promoting Adequate Management of Natural Grasslands

Grasslands are characterised by native non-forest vegetation, occupying a large land area worldwide. The study was conducted in the Andean National Sanctuary of Ampay, Peru, at 3,500−4,500 masl. The purpose has been to evaluate the relationship between biomass, forage productive potential, degree of soil erosion, and presence of valuable species for grazing. The three-step (Parker) method was used for natural pastures and the linear intercept for vegetation. The herbaceous vegetation frequency results were obtained from thirteen zones distributed in three study sectors (Yanacocha, Uspacocha, and Faccha). The annual grazing carrying capacity was 1.2 animal units per hectare. The most productive sector with species desirable for livestock was Uspacocha, which had better soil conditions without overgrazing, while the least productive was Yanacocha. The predominant families in herbaceous plant associations were Rosaceae, Poaceae, and Asteraceae; the study area was in regular conservation condition with few eroded areas. Currently, the inhabitants of the communities surrounding the study area use many plant species for feeding, medicinal, fuel, fodder, and manufacturing purposes. It is necessary to promote self-sustainable development by strengthening production units.