Decline in traditional fodder availability and shift to alternative fodder supplements for livestock in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India

The Himalayan region’s traditional fodder systems are under increasing strain from socioeconomic shifts and environmental change. This study examines the changing dynamics of fodder availability and livestock management in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand (India). The study was conducted in five blocks of the district (Joshimath, Pokhari, Karnaprayag, Tharali, and Dewal). These covered different elevation zones: lower (800–1,500 m), middle (1,500–2,500 m), and higher (>2,500 m). The research employed household surveys (n=150) to examine trends in traditional fodder resources, adaptation strategies, and associated challenges. Findings reveal a 37% decline in overall fodder availability since 1990, with the highest reduction (45%) in higher regions due to climate change and decreasing snowfall. Mid-altitude areas experienced a 38% decline, largely due to restricted forest access and invasive species. The lower zones reported a 29% decrease, which was driven by agricultural expansion and deforestation. The study highlights a 105% increase in fodder collection (from 2.1 to 4.3 hours daily) as well as a doubling of collection distances (from 1.8 to 3.6 km) over three decades. Periods of acute shortage extended from 2.3 to 4.7 months annually. This increase disproportionately impacts women’s workloads. Households have responded by adopting alternative strategies, including commercial feed (63% adoption), increased reliance on crop residues (88%), and herd reduction (97%). Household income, market access, and education significantly influence adaptation capacity. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions, such as improved fodder cultivation, integrated fodder development programs, enhanced forest management policies, and economic support for dependent populations. This research contributes to understanding social-ecological transitions in mountain systems.