Spatiotemporal dynamics of vegetation in response to climate variability in the Borana rangelands of southern Ethiopia

In this paper, we analyze the spatiotemporal dynamics of vegetation and its association with climate variables in Borana rangelands southern Ethiopia. Moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference index (NDVI) data, namely, MODIS/TERRA, MOD09Q1 16-day L3 Global 250 m Version 6 from National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) United States Geological Survey (USGS), data 2000 to 2018 obtained Meteorological Agency (NMA) Ethiopia are used determine both at annual seasonal timescales. The results indicate that NDVI varies between .31 .41, study area is dominated by sparse vegetation, especially shrubs grasslands. were previously open grasslands, perennial herbaceous woody vegetations, some encroaching vegetations. revealed poorer growth than condition (VCI) 2018, although variations observed spatiotemporally. Rainfall was more highly variable scales temperature during studied years. significantly determined particularly growing seasons compared other periods. A significant strong positive correlation NDVI, VCI, main ( Belg ) short Meher rainy rangelands. beneficial for development proper intervention policies provide information sustainable rangeland management.