Satellite based long-term assessment of rangeland condition in semi-arid areas: An example from Botswana

► Methodology was devised to compare range-condition over time irrespective of imagery used. ► This was applied to range-condition change mapping in Botswana through 1984-2000. ► Results suggest resilience of semi-arid rangelands even under significant grazing pressure. ► Persistent degradation in communal areas and ranches is related to high livestock density. ► Method useful to improve range-condition monitoring in semi-arid developing countries.