Abstract: [Objective] To better understand the characters and utilization status of natural grassland resources in Henan Province, and to provide a basis for better protection and rational utilization of local natural grassland in the future. [Method] According to the overall work plan for national grassland inventory formulated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, field investigation of natural grassland resources in Henan Province was carried out from five aspects: grassland type, grassland area, vegetation productivity level, forage species, and utilization status. [Result] ①With a total area of 52.24×10⁴ hm², Henan Province has 4 categories and 30 types of natural grassland. 74.04% of the natural grassland is distributed in the mountainous and hilly areas of southern and western Henan Province. ②In natural grassland in Henan Province, there are around 1 400 forage plants, comprising 41 constructive species, 123 dominant species, and 357 main associated species. ③Natural grassland in Henan Province has an average grass layer height of 70.43 cm, an average coverage of 86.36%, and an average grass yield of 7.02×10³ kg/hm², with 94.40% of the natural grassland being underused or barely utilized. [Conclusion] Henan Province has abundant natural grassland resources, a diverse range of grassland varieties, high forage production and a lot of room for growth and application. Further development and utilization are necessary to boost the economic value of herbivorous animal husbandry.

Key words: natural grassland, forage grass, resources, utilization