Coexistence of wild ungulates and livestock farmers on the Kazakh steppe: assessing ecological, economic and social interactions for sustainable rangeland use (WiLiKaSteppe)

In WiLiKaSteppe, we investigate the coexistence of wild ungulates—specifically the Saiga antelope—and livestock farming systems on Kazakhstan’s steppe. Saiga antelopes experienced severe declines in the late 20th century due to poaching and habitat loss. Conservation efforts have since led to a remarkable recovery, with populations reaching approximately 4 million by 2025. However, this success has intensified conflicts between Saiga and local land users.

The project addresses growing socio-ecological challenges arising from competition over pasture, hayfields, and water resources. Farmers report significant economic losses due to crop damage, grazing competition, and trampling, compounded by climate change-induced droughts that reduce vegetation productivity. Yet, the extent to which Saiga versus climate factors contribute to these losses remains unclear.

The main objective of the research is to disentangle the impacts of Saiga grazing and climate change on agricultural productivity. We hypothesize: (1) Saiga use of agricultural land has increased over the past decade; (2) Saiga grazing significantly reduces hay yields and farmer revenues; and (3) climate change has decreased overall pasture productivity.

To test these hypotheses, the project combines social and ecological methods across two study areas in Kazakhstan. These include stakeholder interviews, participatory mapping, livestock and land-use data analysis, Saiga GPS-tracking data, and field-based vegetation sampling. Remote sensing tools and climate data will be used to assess long-term vegetation trends and distinguish between grazing and climate impacts.

Ultimately, the project aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for sustainable land management, conflict mitigation, and policy development. It also contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, biodiversity conservation, gender equality, and international research collaboration.

Involved researchers: Alyona Koshkina, Johannes Kamp

This research is funded by a Georg Forster Research Scholarship of the Alexander von Humboldt foundation awarded to Alyona Koshkina.