According to Kilyazova, organizations such as Kyrgyzpastbishche, the Institute of Pastures and Forage, and the Veterinary Service of Pasture Management under the Ministry of Agriculture participated in the development of this guide.
“Among the assessment indicators are the condition of the vegetation cover, the presence of degradation processes, weeds, as well as the degree of stoniness and shrub density. In 30–40 minutes, one can analyze a plot and determine its condition—whether it is good or degrading—and identify the causes,” she explained.
Kilyazova noted that the pastures in the Susamyr Valley are generally characterized by good condition and belong to typical pastures with diverse vegetation. However, in some areas, there is an active spread of the shrub Caragana, also known as altygan.
“Local residents report that Caragana is actively spreading and moving up the pastures. The first signals about the problem came from the Susamyr residents who are eager to get rid of this shrub,” she added.
Kilyazova mentioned that during the Soviet era, Caragana was destroyed everywhere, including the use of chemical agents. Currently, chemical, biological, and mechanical methods are used to combat the shrub.
“We assessed the condition of the pastures and tried various methods to combat Caragana—both mechanical and chemical. We selected two of the least toxic herbicides—products containing glyphosate, which were applied to fenced areas of the pastures, but not on slopes and along rivers,” Kilyazova reported.
She emphasized that the trials showed positive results.
“Caragana is successfully destroyed, while the forage vegetation remains untouched and recovers within a year if the pasture is given a chance to rest,” the specialist noted.
Additionally, a mechanical method was applied—uprooting the shrub and subsequently sowing perennial grasses.
“This method is more environmentally safe but requires significant costs for seeds and resources. Nevertheless, it allows for the creation of cultivated pastures and prevents further degradation,” she added.
In response to a question about natural methods of control, Kilyazova explained that Caragana poses a serious threat to livestock grazing.
“It is a thorny shrub up to 1–1.2 meters tall, forming dense thickets. In such places, it is difficult for animals to move, which can lead to oral injuries, and young animals sometimes get lost and die without finding an exit,” she explained.
According to Kilyazova, measures to eliminate Caragana are taken locally.
“We only combat it in those areas of the pastures where it does not perform soil retention functions. Grasses should prevail in the pastures. At the same time, we understand the importance of Caragana for the ecosystem, but its absence in the pastures would be preferable,” Kilyazova concluded.
