Social Factors Accounting for Local Differences in the Damage Caused by a Meteorological Disaster

- A Case Study of the 2009-2010 Dzud in Mongolia -

Abstract

The livelihoods of Mongolia’s inhabitants have long been jeopardized by repeated natural hazards associated with a harsh environment and a cold and arid climate. Dzud is a Mongolian word denoting harsh winter conditions. The impacts of such hazards often vary considerably, even across adjoining areas. Given this situation, this study aimed to identify the social factors accounting for local differences between Taragt and Nariinteel Counties of Ovorkhangai Province during the 2009-2010 dzud using zoo-meteorological data and socioeconomic data obtained from interviewed herders. The results revealed much lower livestock mortalities in Nariinteel, despite its more severe climatic conditions. The social factors associated with reduced mortalities corresponded to the following actions taken by the herders in relation to the seasonal sequence of movements from summer to winter. These included: (1) conducting frequent and regular long-distance seasonal movements; (2) using pasturelands with a lower overgrazing rate measured in the summer; (3) promoting livestock sales and preparation of winter forage stock; (4) delaying movement to the winter camping site to ensure sufficient winter pasture; and (5) selecting warmer, middle, and lee sides of mountains for winter camp and shelter sites. These findings suggest that proactive herding management entailing careful consideration of local natural and marketing conditions will provide an efficient countermeasure for reducing dzud-induced damage.