By Scout Nelson
James Rogers, a Forage crops production specialist at NDSU Extension, shares insights on how past grazing practices affect future forage production and why spring is a critical time for planning. His observations highlight the importance of careful management as producers enter the new growing season.
This year brings mixed expectations. While spring usually creates hope for strong growth, unusual winter conditions in some regions raise concerns about soil moisture and future forage supply. Weather plays a key role, but past grazing decisions also shape how well pastures recover.
Experts suggest that farmers review how fields were managed during the previous fall. If the grazing was too heavy and plants lost an important leaf area before frost, those pastures may need to rest during spring. This recovery period helps plants rebuild strength and improve future growth.
New research and guidance provide different scenarios based on rainfall and temperature patterns. Farmers must prepare for both good and poor conditions. Planning early helps reduce risks and supports better forage production.
A historical study on drought conditions offers an important lesson. It states, “In general, ranges that were properly managed before and during the drought came through in fair to good condition; overstocked ranges were severely damaged and subsequent recovery has been limited. Thus ranchmen have evidence for the need for carrying out proper management practices year after year, not only to meet drought periods, but to build an economic unit by capitalizing on the years of favorable moisture. Thus the old rule still prevails that close grazing does not pay.”
This message remains true today. Good grazing management protects pasture health and ensures long-term productivity.
As spring begins, it is important to review past grazing management decisions and understand how they may influence forage production in the coming season. Several monitoring tools and reliable information sources can help farmers better assess current conditions. These include NDSU Extension, the North Dakota Natural Resources Conservation Service, the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network, the National Drought Mitigation Center, and the Climate Prediction Center. In addition, burn restrictions and fire danger maps are available at ndresponse.gov to support safe and informed planning.
Farmers are encouraged to use tools such as weather networks, drought monitors, and extension services to track conditions. Monitoring plant health, and livestock condition is also important, especially during dry periods.
Dry weather can cause issues such as nitrate buildup or harmful plant compounds. Testing forage and adjusting feeding plans can reduce risks to livestock.
In the end, strong grazing management every year helps farms stay prepared. Even in good seasons, careful planning acts as insurance for future challenges.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Livestock, Weather