By Scout Nelson
Forage and grazing management continue to evolve, aiming to improve soil, plants, and livestock. One rainy day can be a good time for reflection — and a reminder that healthy grazing systems matter.
Clear terminology is the foundation. Scientists worldwide now use shared definitions for terms like “stocking rate,” “rest period,” and even less common terms like “transhumance.” Using shared language helps grazing professionals communicate better.
There are at least 18 named grazing systems, including rotation, adaptive, and management-intensive grazing. Each may vary, but they all share a core goal: building strong, deep-rooted plants that provide enough quality forage for livestock.
Healthy forage leads to healthy soil and animals. These systems also protect soil with cover, improve rain capture, store carbon, reduce erosion, and support wildlife. They are not just environmental; they must also support farm income. A good system balances grazing intensity and timing, encouraging plant regrowth and deep roots.
Stocking rate is key. It ensures animals do not overgraze, and forage has time to recover. Stocking density, while related, focuses on animal weight per area. For example, 100 cows on one acre equals 100,000 pounds per acre — a high stock density.
Managing recovery time based on grazing pressure helps forage plants compete equally.
Many tools help farmers manage better. Virtual fencing, easy monitoring tools, and online resources all support smart grazing. However, challenges remain — like erosion and balancing forage supply with animal needs.
“Moving forward” means progress. There is no one-size-fits-all plan. Each manager must adjust based on land, livestock, and goals. Grazing is not just about forage — it's about improving the whole farm system step by step.
Photo Credit: istock-azmanjaka
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Equipment & Machinery, Livestock, Rural Lifestyle