Pastures And Livestock in Some Villages of North Nablus Governate

This study discussed the livestock and pastures in some villages north of Nablus based on the information and data available. The study aimed to investigate and address the reality of animal production in an attempt to improve the potential and capabilities of agricultural and animal resources. The study included an extensive and specialized analysis of the animal resources and the calibrate of the farmers who are responsible for managing them. It also addresses production conditions and sheds light on the most significant problems and obstacles faced by the livestock sector in the area. The study adopted a descriptive and analytical approach. Data was collected by referring to the available resources and scientific references. A field study was also conducted in the form of a questionnaire that was distributed among farmers and consumers. Later, the results were processed and analyzed using the SPSS program.The main results: 1-Animal production and distribution is affected by different climate factors such as rainfall and temperature. 2-Livestock and pastures in the area of study face several problems that contribute to the decline of pastoral areas and 3-animal production. Such problems and challenges include the expansion of urban areas, overgrazing, and irresponsible logging. 4-The level of awareness and education in issues related to modern livestock farming methods is very low among farmers. 5-There is an absence of effective regulation and supervision of drugs and veterinary practices. Israel has a policy of deliberately selling fake drugs to the farmers, which often leads to death of livestock. 6-The importing of cheap meat has a detrimental effect on the local farming economy. 7-The Israeli military policy of confiscating farm land for Settlements and as security and training zones have all contributed to the decline in local production.The study concludes by stating that it is necessary to improve the quality of local animal fodder and to focus on creating new types that can be produced in large quantities and which are sustainable and suited to the local environment. Moreover, it is equally important to enhance the different agricultural methods that the farmers use in producing the fodder such using advanced technology, modern machinery, fertilizers and pesticides.In addition to this, it is important to support and prepare an adequate transportation network in the rural areas so that services such as veterinary, medical and food care are easily accessible to the farmers. Finally, it is crucial to establish cooperatives and unions to take responsibility for organizing and managing livestock in a way that ensures its sustainable development.