WWF-Mongolia is paying special attention to pasture-related issues as part of its efforts to conserve the Mongolian saiga antelope. Climate change and the increase in livestock numbers have led to pasture overgrazing, which negatively affecting wildlife. To address this issue, WWF-Mongolia is collaborating with eco-club students to raise awareness among herders in areas inhabited by the saiga, focusing on the sustainable use and management of pasturelands.      

As part of this outreach work, experts from the Gobi-Altai Provincial Meteorology Office participated and presented weather forecasts for the winter and spring of 2026, along with detailed pasture studies for seven soums where the Mongolian saiga are found. Maps illustrating pasture conditions and the risk of harsh winter particularly captured the students’ attention. This approach helps identify areas where herders should reduce livestock grazing or relocate their herds, ultimately supporting the long-term conservation of pastures.         

Meanwhile, eco club students conducted surveys on households with livestock within their schools and found that 53% of students come from herding families. During the school’s winter break, they will collaborate with these students to share and explain survey results on pasture conditions with local herding families, while promoting the importance and value of sustainable pasture management. Additionally, the students will engage with local decision-makers and pasture management specialists to explore ways of effectively and collaboratively communicating this information to herders, ensuring a coordinated approach to pasture conservation.