What is a common environmental issue caused by overgrazing?

Desertification is a significant environmental issue that can result from overgrazing. When livestock graze excessively on a piece of land, they can strip away the vegetation needed to maintain soil structure and fertility. This vegetation acts as a protective layer that holds the soil in place, and without it, the soil becomes more susceptible to erosion and degradation. Over time, the lack of plant life leads to a decline in soil quality and fertility, which can transform arable land into desert-like conditions.

Desertification not only affects the immediate area by reducing the land's agricultural productivity but also can have broader implications for the climate, water cycles, and ecosystems within the region. As vegetated areas become less frequent due to overgrazing, there is an increased risk of soil erosion, decreased water retention, and reduced habitat for wildlife, all contributing to the phenomenon of desertification. This is why it stands out as a direct consequence of overgrazing.

While soil compaction, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity are indeed serious issues associated with various land-use practices, they are not as directly tied to the phenomenon of overgrazing as desertification is.