Impact of the Dzud Disaster on Nomadic Livestock Farming in Mongolia

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic impacts of the 2023–2024 winter dzud on Mongolia’s nomadic livestock farming. A comprehensive impact assessment approach is proposed, including a social assessment of the dzud impact on farms, an analysis of pasture carrying capacity, and an economic assessment of direct and indirect losses to nomadic livestock farming. The study’s results for the five most affected aimags indicate that 63.3% of surveyed households suffered livestock losses, and the total economic damage, including the reduced value of pasture ecosystem services, reached 1.5–1.9 billion USD. Based on the grazing pressure analysis and expert survey results, overgrazing was identified as a key vulnerability factor. Priority adaptation policy measures were identified, including sustainable pasture resource management, including the use of traditional nomadic practices, and increased direct financial and social support for nomads. The findings have practical implications for policy development in regions with similar climate risks.