Abstract:
Lack of attention to rural healthcare for livestock in the southeastern United States has
led to a focus on small ruminant farming, mainly using sericea lespedeza [SL; Lespedeza cuneata
(Dum-Cours) G. Don], a drought-resistant forage species with nutraceutical benefits. Climate change
has increased land availability for SL cultivation, further expanding the potential of this bioactive
(anti-parasitic) legume. This study aims to create a geospatial engineering and technology-assisted
model for identifying suitable SL production areas for supporting profitable small ruminant farming.
The cultivation of SL depends on specific weather conditions and soil properties, with minimum
requirements for temperature and rainfall, non-clay soil with reduced bulk density, and open land
cover. The main objective was to develop an automated geospatial model using ArcGIS Pro Model-
Builder to assess SL production suitability. This model also aimed to identify appropriate locations for
small ruminant production in Georgia in the southeastern United States, characterized by increasing
temperature fluctuations. A web-based geographic information system (webGIS) platform was
developed using the ArcGIS Online dashboard interface, allowing agriculturalists to access decision
support for SL production suitability tailored to their land. This forage production suitability analysis,
conducted in the context of climate change, offers valuable guidance for pasture managers in other
nations with similar environmental attributes, promoting global adaptability and resilience.
