Traditionally, management of rangelands is based on the successional theory for vegetation developed by Clements. This approach, which came to be known as “the range succession model”, assumes a progressive change of vegetation towards the final (climax) stage and considers grazing as a primary driver of its dynamics. This model cannot be applied in Mediterranean rangelands, however, because they are largely modified plant communities and their final stage is usually a forest or dense woodland.

Rangelands encompass 30-40% of Earth's land surface and support 1-2 billion people. Their predominant use is extensive livestock production by pastoralists and ranchers. But rangelands are characterized by ecological, economic, and political marginality, and higher-value, more intensive land uses are impinging on rangelands around the world. Earth Stewardship of rangelands must address both livestock management and the broader socioecological dynamics that promote land-use changes, fragmentation, and degradation.

Establishment of seasonal grazing enclosures has become an important rangeland rehabilitation strategy in semi-arid regions. This study assessed the impact of enclosure age and enclosure management on the vegetation composition in the Njemps Flats range unit, Lake Baringo Basin (Kenya). Six communal enclosures (13-23 years since establishment) and six private enclosures (3-17 years since establishment) were selected.

This Report was developed in the context of the “Global Dialogue on Climate Change and

Agriculture,” a project facilitated by the Meridian Institute that began in August 2010. The

Meridian Institute is an internationally recognized, nonprofit organization that facilitates

neutral and independent policy dialogues and assessments. The Global Dialogue is a program

intended to provide relevant information and opportunities for productive engagement and

discussion among government negotiators, experts, stakeholders, and others involved and