Pastoral nomadism is generally considered to be an extensive form of land use. This type of agriculture relies on the movement of herds over large areas of land in search of fresh pastures and water sources. Unlike intensive farming, which aims to maximize output from a small area through techniques like irrigation and fertilization, extensive pastoralism spreads its activities over a wider area.
The strategies employed in pastoral nomadism are adapted to the environment, allowing herders to utilize vast, often marginal lands that are unsuitable for traditional farming. This lifestyle is characterized by mobility, as communities move their herds seasonally to find suitable grazing areas. This system is sustainable in arid and semi-arid regions where resources are limited, and it allows herders to maintain their livelihoods while minimizing the environmental impact on any single location.
In summary, pastoral nomadism is extensive due to its reliance on large areas of land and the mobility of the herds, making it well-suited for the ecological conditions in which it is practiced.