JERRY LITTLE

UK Extention Agent

Farmers who raise livestock, whether cattle, horses, sheep or goats, should think of themselves as forage farmers as well.  Increased use of forage reduces feed costs and increases potential yield per animal; to some extent, it is an input that a farmer can

manage himself to minimize feed purchases.  According to a Top 10 list put together by

scientists, using forage benefits the land by increasing organic matter and it is a sustainable practice that reduces surface water runoff and slows or prevents the leaching of nutrients.

Spring provides a good opportunity to assess fields and create a working plan that is economical and increases or protects the fertility of the land. Good pasture management enables livestock to graze on pasture for more days of the year. To increase days on pasture, farmers should first implement a rotational grazing system to allow pastures time to recover. Having two (or more) pastures and rotating stock back and forth increases the fertility of the soil by allowing the empty pasture to replenish itself.

Farmers should consider these management practices:

• Farmers must establish strong stands of forage, using high quality seed of proven varieties and timely planting.

• Soil test. Tests tell farmers how to best use lime, phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen top dressings.  This improves yield, quality, and stand life, and it also reduces weed problems.

• Nutritional needs. Cattle, horses and goats, for instance, each have different nutritional needs. These variations are further impacted by the age and use of the animal. Weight gain, lactation, and pregnancy (last trimester) require pasture with high levels of nutrients. Farmers need to match the pasture to the animals’ requirements.

• Stocking rates. Grazing the right number of animals is extremely important to short-and long-term grazing success.

• Legumes. Use legumes as much as possible.  Examine each field individually, assessing its potential for legumes, either as an introduction or enhancement planting.

• Reduced use of stored hay. Farm efficiency can be measured through use of stored hay.  This expensive input should be as low as possible, indicating strong forage management.  Additionally, farmers should reduce waste of stored hay, silage, and concentrates.

• Invest time. Your investment of time and care is necessary for a grazing program to be successful.

For more information on pasture management contact the Boyle County U.K. Cooperative Extension Service.