Abandoned drylands transformed into thriving forage production with Astragalus.
Astragalus plants are important for soil health and forage production in Iran's rangelands. These plants help increase soil fertility and provide valuable grazing options for animals due to their high protein content. Overgrazing is a concern, with some areas experiencing more grazing pressure than the land can handle. By cultivating herbaceous Astragalus in abandoned drylands, researchers believe that more forage can be produced, helping to restore degraded rangelands. The deep roots and large canopy of Astragalus plants also help protect water and soil, promoting biodiversity in these areas.