As producers turn livestock out to pasture, it is important to balance available grass and forages. According to NDSU Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist Miranda Meehan, balancing stocking rates helps to prevent overgrazing. “Stocking rate is based on the number of animals, the kind of livestock and the length of grazing,” says Meehan.”That will vary depending on the pasture, what forage is being produced and the amount of precipitation.” Now is also the time to evaluate grass and forage potential for the current grazing season. “First figure out what the dominant or key forage are in that pasture. Once you know that, look at the amount of forage and calculate how much is available for grazing.” Read more about grassland management.
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