Optimizing grazing for better forage and livestock health

By Scout Nelson

Grazing management is critical for maximizing pasture productivity and maintaining healthy livestock. Kevin Sedivec, a rangeland management specialist at NDSU Extension, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the primary grass species in pastures. Different grasses have unique growth patterns and nutritional values, affecting the optimal grazing times.

Pastures primarily consist of cool-season grasses in northern U.S. regions and warm-season grasses in the south. Cool-season grasses can be grazed earlier in the spring, extending the grazing period.

Grazing before plants reach the proper development stage can reduce herbage production significantly, impacting the carrying capacity and animal performance.

Poor grazing practices and drought conditions can delay the grazing readiness of grasses, as noted by Miranda Meehan, NDSU Extension's livestock environmental stewardship specialist. Overgrazing in the fall can reduce the next season's forage production by more than 50%.

Drought-stressed pastures need careful management to recover effectively. Grazing too early in the spring can weaken plant health and decrease forage output.

Strategies for Effective Grazing, to optimize forage and livestock production, ranchers should:

• Determine the predominant grass species in their pasture.
• Monitor grazing readiness and delay grazing until plants are ready.
• Utilize grazing readiness resources provided by NDSU Extension at ag/grazing2024.
• Provide supplemental forage if grazing cannot be delayed and continue dry lot feeding in May.

As the grazing season progresses, monitoring the extent of grazing is crucial to avoid overuse. The recommended utilization level is 40% to 60%, ensuring even usage and adequate recovery of grasslands.
"It takes grass leaves to replenish the root food reserves needed to grow grass," Sedivec warns. Early spring grazing following a drought can severely affect the forage production for the entire season.

By implementing these strategies, ranchers can ensure that their grazing practices support sustainable pasture management and robust livestock health.

Photo Credit -north-dakota-state-university