Publication

Project publication

Chihuahuan Desert Grassland Conservation: Perspectives of Ranchers in Mexico

Description

This report presents the results of a survey of ranchers and livestock owners across the Chihuahuan Desert region of northern Mexico, to understand their perspectives, experiences and practices related to livestock production and grassland conservation. A structured questionnaire was distributed digitally and in print to collect both quantitative and qualitative data from 172 participants, mostly from Chihuahua, but also from Durango, Coahuila and other states. Results highlight how ranchers learn about management practices (primarily through direct exchanges with peers and observation of their own land), as well as the indicators they use to evaluate success, including production, economic, environmental and quality-of-life measures.

This report is intended for conservation practitioners, researchers, policymakers and organizations working in grassland conservation. It provides insights into rancher engagement, motivations for participating in conservation programs and barriers to adoption, offering practical guidance to design locally relevant, flexible and effective conservation initiatives in northern Mexico and across the Central Grasslands region.