Sustainability factors underlying traditional grazing in Mount Rinjani National Park, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Traditional grazing in Mount Rinjani National Park (MRNP), West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, is a crucial livelihood practice for local communities. However, it poses ecological challenges such as overgrazing, habitat degradation, and an increased wildfire risk. Understanding the sustainability of grazing requires an integrated assessment of ecological, social, economic, and institutional factors. Methods: This study employed the MICMAC method to analyze key sustainability variables and their interdependencies. Data collection included expert judgment, interviews with local farmers and stakeholders, field surveys, and secondary data analysis. A structured influence-dependence matrix was used to classify variables based on their role in the grazing system. Results: The quadrant analysis identifies key factors influencing grass utilization in MRNP. Determinant variables such as vegetation cover (C1), land area (C4), grass use (C6), use frequency (C8), and use pattern (C7) play a major role in shaping grazing sustainability. Linkage variables, including institutional factors (C9) and demographics (C5), highlight the importance of governance and community dynamics. Other factors significantly influence the dependent variables, whereas autonomous variables, such as wildlife habitat (C2) and carrying capacity (C3), have minimal interaction with the system. These findings emphasize the need for an integrated approach to balancing grazing activities and conservation efforts in MRNP. Conclusions: Sustainable grazing management in MRNP requires a collaborative approach that integrates community participation, institutional support, and conservation strategies. Fire prevention, controlled livestock management, and the rehabilitation of degraded grasslands are necessary interventions. Future policies should balance ecological conservation with local economic needs to ensure long-term sustainability.