Abstract
This study evaluates the ecological, biometric, and livestock productivity aspects of pasturelands located within three distinct natural zones – steppe, dry steppe, and semi-desert - along an altitudinal gradient in the Zhambyl Region, Kazakhstan. Research was conducted on six pasture plots managed by the “Batyr” farm, each distinguished by specific soil morphological features, botanical composition, and agrochemical parameters. A comprehensive geobotanical survey and soil analysis identified 14 primary plant communities and measured key indicators such as humus, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Additionally, seasonal changes in forage quality-namely crude protein and fiber contents - were assessed. A scientifically based, seasonal rotational grazing system was implemented to replace the prior unregulated grazing regime. Results indicate that rotational grazing significantly enhanced phytomass productivity, soil fertility, forage quality, vegetal cover regeneration, and sheep live weight gain. A three-year comparative experiment involving control and experimental groups revealed the greatest improvement in lamb weight gain (+8.64 kg on average), with all age-sex categories showing measurable gains. Based on these outcomes, an optimized pasture allocation scheme by season was developed, including calculations of forage carrying capacity and supported livestock numbers per pasture plot. Special attention was given to preventing spring overgrazing and pasture degradation. Provided findings have direct implications for advancing sustainable and ecologically balanced pasture-based livestock systems in arid and semi‑arid environments.