Effect of two different supplementary feed rations on partures in an area of Italian Alps

The present work focuses on a trial conducted on the pastures of ‘Malga Juribello’ located in the ‘Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Regional Park’. The aim of the experiment was to investigate interactions between the quantity of feedstuff supplied daily to livestock and some important pastoral features. The trial area was divided into two plots. In one area (H) the animals received an higher feedstuff supplementation, whereas in another area (L) the livestock received a lower ration. Data collection on pastures concerned botanical analysis, production and height of Deschampsia caespitosa. Results showed a positive effect in the L plot in terms of presence of legumes and pastoral value. In these conditions, even less palatable species, such as Deschampsia caespitosa were grazed, permitting a positive evolution of the pastures. This demonstrates that an extensive management could result in a better pasture quality and that it can contribute to the preservation of delicate habitats.