Steve F HH Grazing School Intro 14 - University of … · harvest with the animals need for high...

July 23, 2014 – Minden

July 24, 2014 – Fallon

Table of Content

Grazing Management School Introduction…………………..............…………...…………….. 1

Forage Plant Growth Factors……………………………….…………………………………………….... 12

Soil Fertility in Managed Grazing Systems..…………………………….…………..……………..... 2

Grazing Management School Paddock and Layout Design……………………………………. 4

Grazing Management School Fencing………………………………………………………………….. 5

Plant Competition in Grazing Systems………………………………………………………………….

Grazing Management School Economics…………………………………………………………….. 7

Grazing Management SchoolIntroduction

Steve FosterSteve Lewis

Seth Urbanowitz

Agendao Introduction/Principles of Managed Grazingo Understanding Forage Growth

o Plant physiologyo Forage species selection

o Soil fertilizationo Grazing Systems Layout and Design

o Grazing mathematicso FencingWeed Control with GrazingEconomics

Cost share programsLunchField Exercise

Grazing Management“The ruminant animals we work with on today's

farms have practiced grazing since beforemankind discovered fire. Animals herded togetherfor protection from predators and rotationally

grazed to find new sources of forage”.

“Rotational grazing on farms perhaps had it'sbeginning with staking the animals out in a

different locations or herding animals to differentlocations each day. Recorded history of the

benefits of rotational grazing goes back at least tothe 1700's”.

Managed Intensive Grazing Systems July 23, 2014 - Minden July 24, 2014 - Fallon

1

Why use managed grazing?

• Farmers using managed grazing often describe it in terms such as “lessstressful” or “family friendly.”

• Practical benefits come along with the lifestyle improvements.

Management Grazing fits many classes of livestock

Management Grazing is not Size Dependent


2

Economically Profitable• Profit = Income Expenses• Feed cost can account up to 75% of thecost of keeping an animal.

• It is generally 3x more expensive to feedan animal than to make them graze it.

Environmentally Sound?

Socially Acceptable


3

What is the most important thing inthe world to you?

• Why do you want to start this business?• Is this a profitable business or just a hobby?

– “Price Taker or Price Setter?”

• Where do you see your business in 5 10years?

Vision & Values• What is your vision of your business?

– What do you want your business to look like in 10years?

• What values do you live by?• What do you believe in?

– Are they reflected in your business?

Mission

• What is the reason for your business?• What direction do you take to achieve yourVision?

• Mission Statement:– “Provide supplemental income by marketingquality livestock with minimal effort and cost,while maintaining the family farm for the nextgeneration.”


4

Objectives and Goals• SMART

– Specific,Measure, Attainable, Rewarding, Timed

• Execution of objectives– Who, What, Where, When and How

• Communication– Family and/or workers

Based on Andre Voison’sPrinciples

• Matching the plants need for rest between harvest with the animals need for high quality feed

Animals do most of the work• Harvest, store and transport the feed whilespreading the manure.

• Reduce tractor use, equipment needs, storagefacilities, and manure handling facilities.

• Reduce cost of production and debt whileincreasing profitability.


5

Managed Grazing Principles

• Psychological Barriers• No Seed Heads• Rest Periods• Short Duration Grazing• Match Animals Needs toForage Value

Principles

• Psychological Barriers– Fencing

Principles• Psychological Barriers• No Seed Heads


6

Principles

• Psychological Barriers• No Seed Heads• Rest Periods

– In general, must increase asgrowth rate slows

– Relates closely to seasonalforage growth

– Need to rotate betweenpaddocks every 3 6 days

The Yield Quality Compromise

Less rest More rest

Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3

Seasonal Distribution of CoolSeason Grass Production

Dan Undersander-AgronomyDan Undersander-AgronomyUWEXUWEX

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Months

Tons

/acr

e CoolSeasonGrass Legume


7

Seasonal Distribution of CoolSeason Grass Production

Dan Undersander-AgronomyDan Undersander-AgronomyUWEXUWEX

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Months

Tons

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Warm SeasonGrass

Principles

• Psychological Barriers• No Seed Heads• Rest Periods• Short Duration Grazing

For rapid regrowthTake half and leave half


8

Principles• Psychological Barriers• No Seed Heads• Rest Periods• Short Duration Grazing• Match Animals Needs toForage Value


9

Match Animals Needs to Forage Value

Very High Energy Need High Energy NeedLactating dairy cowsLactating ewes or nannieswith twins/ tripletsFinishing beef animals orlamb

Superior milking beef cowsGrowing steers and heifersw/ > 2 lb ADG

Moderate Energy Need Low Energy NeedAverage milk producingbeef cowsEwes nursing single lambsGrowing steers and heifersw/ < 2 lb ADG

Dry pregnant females atmaintenanceMature bulls and ramsGrowing steers and heifersw/ < 1 lb ADG

High

Medium

Low

Grasses Leafy Boot Heading BloomLegumes Leafy Prebud Bud Bloom

Com

posi

tion,

Rel

ativ

e Va

lues

Growth Stages

Management is the Key• Observation

–Ability to judge foragegrowth weeks inadvance

• Maintain Flexibility


10

Questions?Pasture and Grazing Management in the Northwest

http://www.cals.uidaho.edu/edcomm/pdf/PNW/PNW0614.pdf


11

Forage Plant Growth Factors

Jay DavisonExtension Crop SpecialistUniversity of Nevada Cooperative Extension

Sideboards

Grazing can be beneficial, neutral orharmfulAll plants can be grazed without adverselong term effectsGrazing can harm all plantsGrazing management is never perfect

Within year vs across year effectsDevil is in the details

Not whether its grazed, but how

UNDERSTANDING PLANT GROWTH

• Light• Temperature• Roots/Carbohydrate Reserves• Water• Fertility/Nutrients


12

Seasonal Plant Growth

From

ND

SU

EB

-69

Consumes Stored Energy

Produces and Stores Energy for Future Needs

Over-wintering tillersMay or may not be green

Dormant budsRoot crownAxillary buds on tillers

Soil temperature of 40-42 degrees.

SolublecarbohydratesLower stemsRoot crownsRoots

Where Does Spring Growth Originate?

Annual Growth Cycle For PerennialGrasses

Growth -• Vegetative tillers • Stem elongation • Developing seed heads

- Energy storage and biomass production

Reproduction

Fall regrowth• Existing tillers • Axillary buds• Takes energy that

must be restored for following spring

Winter Dormancy• Respiration in root crowns,

lower part of tiller and roots

Break dormancy• Initiate growth from buds in

the spring• Energy consumptive• New green leaves produce

carbohydrates SummerdormancyRespiration of buds –consume energy


13

Changes in Soluble Carbohydrates

Perennialcool season

grasses

Growing Point Locations in Grasses

Ground surface beforestem elongation

Base of leaf blade

Base of the leaf sheath

Tip of the stem, which canbecome elevated as theseed head develops

Bud at each node, base ofthe tiller, or on the rootcrown


14

Defoliation AboveGrowing Points of Leaf Blade

Growth continues provided water, sunlight andproper temperatures are present.

Photosynthesis produces carbohydrates

Soluble carbohydrate reserves and plant healthnot affected

Defoliation BelowTerminal Growing Point

Growth stopsFew carbohydrates produced or storedNew growth from dormant basal buds

Uses soluble carbohydrate pools stored in theroot crown and/or lower part of stems

Repeated defoliation below growing points, acrossyears, and during the growth phase eliminates storedenergy and eventually kills tillers and plants

Defoliation Stresses Forage Plants• Reduces or eliminates photosynthesis• Stops nutrient uptake from the soil• In legumes, nitrogen fixation stops withinhours of harvest


15

Leaf Removal vs. Root Growth

0 20 40 60 80 100

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

% LeafRemoved

Percentage Root Growth StoppageSource: Crider, 1955

Root and Shoot BalancePermanent decline in leaf area = fewer roots

Fewer roots = less leaf biomass

Less leaf = fewer cows/calves

Fewer cows/calves = career change

What is the lower acceptable limit?

Depends on managementgoals & objectives

What You Leave Behind…

• Affects re growth rate• Affects root growth• Affects soil temperature• Affects organic matter• Affects water infiltrationrate and water holdingcapacity

• Affects nutrient cycling


16

Grazing Principle

•Provide plants with adequate rest periodto re grow to correct grazing height

Relationship of rest period to pasture massduring periods of rapid vs. slow growth

Period of fast plant growth (days)

Period of slow plant growth (days)

0 5 10 15 20 25

0 10 20 30 40 50

Lbs.

DM / acre

OptimumRestPeriod

Source: CraigSaxe, Universityof WisconsinExtension

Grazing Principle

For Rapid Regrowth:Take HalfLeave Half


17

Rest and Minimum Stubble HeightsRequirements for Several Common Forage

Species

Plant Species Rest (regrowth) Period(Days)

Minimum Stubble Height(Inches)

Smooth Bromegrass 24 30 4

Tall Fescue 20 36 4

Intermediate Wheatgrass 24 30 4

Orchardgrass 20 36 3

Timothy 28 36 3

Alfalfa 28 40 2

Clover 20 26 2

MANAGEMENT TO OPTIMIZE PLANTGROWTH

• Avoid production of seed heads, keep theplant vegetative

• Maintain leaf canopy (residualmanagement)

• Recharge plant root reserves• Vary rest periods by season and irrigationamounts

• Frequent movements of short duration• Provide adequate soil nutrients

Some Considerations

Develop grazing management programsthat:

Minimize the loss of growing points at or belowbase of leaf blade

Facilitate rapid regrowth of leaves

Periodically allows abundant seed set

Protects basal buds for new tillers

Balances leaf area and root systems


18

Forage SpeciesSelection

How do I decide what species/varietiesto plant?

• Climate

• Time frame of use

• Irrigation water

• Soils

• Planned uses

• Management levels

• Mixes or pure stands

Climate

• Climate dictates which forage plants dominatein a local area.

• Northern Nevada’s climate dictates the use ofcool season forage species.


19

Cool Season Grass Characteristics

• Most common native grasses in Nevada• Grow best in cool temperatures (65 75°)• Start growth early in year & regrow in Fall withadequate water

• Slow growth in summer• Planted in Fall• Wide variety used as forage species in Nevada

Warm Season Grass Characteristics

• Not Common to Northern Nevada• Grow best in warm temperatures (80 95°)• Start growth in late Spring go dormant at firstfrost

• Rapid growth in summer hot period• Planted in late Spring 2 years to establish)• Most common grass used for forageproduction (Switchgrass)

Warm season grasses dominate

Cool season grasses dominate


20

Time Frame of Planned Use• Annual plants (short term)

– Cool season annuals Small grains such as Wheat, Barley,Oats etc.

– Planted in Fall or Spring and used in Fall, late Spring

– Warm season annuals Sudangrass, Sorghum sudangrass,Teff,

– Planted in late spring or early summer and used inSummer, early fall.

Time Frame of Planned Use

• Perennial plants (long term)

Cool Season Grasses

Warm Season grasses

Legumes clovers, alfalfa

Irrigation Water

• Quantity (How much)2.8 3.0 ac/ft/acre at full ET

• Time available (How long)Full season or short season

• Quality (How good)pH, salinity, sodium, alkalinity, ions (B,N, S

Ch etc.)


21

Soils

• Determine general soil characteristics(Web soil survey NRCS)

• Determine specific soil characteristics(Comprehensive soil sample)

Obtain Site Specific Soil CharacteristicsUsing Comprehensive Soil Sampling

• Need in depth soil testing• Depth to restricting layers• pH• Texture• % organic matter• Salt/sodium levels• Nutrient levels (high & low)• Nutrient recommendations

Planned Uses of Forage Species

• Hay for use/sale

• Pasture

• Hay/aftermath grazing


22

Management Levels

• Land/planting preparation levels

• Irrigation techniques

• Fertilizer use/non use

• Intensive pasture management (weed control,aeration, mowing etc.)

• Intensively managed grazing vs “Columbus” Grazing

Mixes or Pure Stands

Pure Stands (grasses or legumes)

• Ease of management

• Increased weed controlmaterials

• Improved nutrition with alllegumes

Mixtures (grasses + legumes)• Less nitrogen applications

necessary

• Improved livestockperformance

• Longer high quality grazingseason

Important Forage SpeciesCharacteristics

• Ease of establishment• Winter hardiness• Fertility requirements/responses• Stand life• Drought tolerance• Regrowth ability• Flood tolerance• pH adaption


23

Important Forage SpeciesCharacteristics (cont)

• Salt tolerance• Response to irrigation• Soil texture adaptation• Bloat vs non bloat• Palatability• Compatibility for pasture mixes• Grazing tolerance• Production potential

http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/pub__7717229.pdf

WHEATGRASS, SNAKE RIVER [Elymus wawawaiensis; Native]Introduction – Snake River wheatgrass is a long- lived, perennial bunchgrass native to Hells Canyon of the Snake River and its tributaries in Washington and northern Idaho. Morphologically, this taxon is similar to bluebunch wheatgrass, but genetically it is related to thickspike wheatgrass. It is adaptable to most areas suitable for bluebunch wheatgrass, but is more vigorous and drought tolerant. In addition, it has good seedling vigor. Snake River wheatgrass has been successfully established on sites that receive as little as 8 in of annual precipitation.

Adapted Varieties – The variety Secar was originally released as a bluebunch wheatgrass variety in 1981. It was later transferred to Snake River wheatgrass. Secar was derived from a collection made near Lewiston, Idaho. It is adapted to 8 in plus rainfall zones at lower elevations of the Pacific Northwest on Intermountain big and Wyoming sagebrush sites. It is an early maturing bunchgrass with good seedling vigor and establishes well in native seed mixes under drought conditions.

WHEATGRASS, TALL[Thinopyrum ponticum; Introduced]Introduction – Tall wheatgrass is a long-lived, coarse, vigorous, perennial bunchgrass with leaves that are long and erect. It is the latest maturing of the grasses adapted to the temperate rangelands of the West. Tall wheatgrass is particularly noted for its capacity to produce forage and persist in areas that are too alkaline or saline for other forage crops. Tall wheatgrass remains green 3 to 6 weeks later than most other range grasses and is often valued as a source of forage during late summer, fall, and early winter. Tall wheatgrass has comparatively large seeds and good seedling vigor. It has been used in wildlife plantings to provide nesting sites and food for upland game birds. Tall wheatgrass plantings are valuable wind barriers against drifting snow and soil erosion.

Adaptation – Tall wheatgrass is adapted to semiarid rangelands that receive a minimum of 14 in of precipitation annually, irrigated or sub-irrigated soils, or imperfectly drained alkali soils at elevations from 4,300 to 6,000 ft. In North America, it is widely used throughout the Intermountain West and the northern Great Plains in salty areas in association with grease- wood and salt-grass. On saline soils, tall wheatgrass is easily established with good cultural methods. In soils where the salt concentration is around EC-16, it may require that the soluble salts be leached out or flushed with irrigation water before planting occurs. In the

Intermountain Region, tall wheatgrass flowers late in July and seed ripens in September. Tall wheatgrass is winter hardy.

Limitations – The major limitation in establishing tallwheatgrass stands are that young seedlings are slow to establish. To ensure a successful seeding, it is recommended that one growing season be required for establishing tall wheatgrass on irrigated land and two growing seasons on drylands. The newly established plants should be allowed to mature and set seed before harvesting or grazing. Under extremely dry conditions, tall wheatgrass does not live long. Due to its late maturity, competitive ability, and tendency to become coarse during the growing season, it is recommended that tall wheatgrass be seeded alone rather than in a mixture with other grasses.

Hay and Pasture Management – Tall wheatgrass produces high yields of fair quality hay and can be harvested as silage. At the early heading stage, tall wheatgrass is higher in digestible protein and total digestible nutrients than most wheatgrasses. Tall wheatgrass, because of its late maturity, provides a long grazing period when used for pasture. An 8 in stubble should remain at the season’s end to prevent animals from grazing too close the following year. Grazing should not be initiated the following season until at least 10 in of new growth have accumulated above the stubble. Palatability is fair early in the season, but the mature plant becomes very unpalatable and must be managed so it is utilized during early stages of growth. When planted in pure stands and fenced, tall wheatgrass is readily grazed by sheep, cattle, and horses. It must be heavily grazed (stocking rate) to maintain the plants in the vegetative state. However, tall wheatgrass does not tolerate continuous close grazing and requires a resting period between grazing events. It is a good winter forage for livestock; however, supplemental protein must be provided. Recommended planting depth is between 1/4 and 3/4 inches.

Adapted Varieties – The variety Alkar is widely used in the Pacific Northwest and the Intermountain Region on alkaline soils. Varieties Jose and Largo are widely used for soil improvement and pasture on saline and alkaline soils in New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona at elevations up to 7,500 ft. A newer variety, Platte, has not gained wide acceptance in the Inter- mountain Region. This variety is noted for its winter hardiness and improved forage and seed production. It is particularly well adapted to alkaline sites in lower valleys of Platte River drainage in Nebraska.

USDA NRCS Plant Guides & Fact Sheets

• http://Plants.usda.gov/index.html


24

http://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/articles/forage/Comparative/Comparativechar.htm

Comparative Characteristics of ForageSpecies in Montana

Final Thoughts

• Have a firm understanding of yourpasture/hayland management goals.

• Know your soil and irrigation opportunitiesand limitations.

• Select adapted species/varieties• Buy/plant certified seed.• Manage forage plants to maximize productionand plant health.


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Seth UrbanowitzExtension EducatorWhite Pine County

Soil Fertility in Managed Grazing

Systems

Nevada Soils• High pH/alkaline soils

• Nutrient availability reduced • Ca-P minerals, Iron, etc.

• Low organic matter• Water retention, nutrient adsorption and availability,

and spring warming of soil

Feed

Fertilizer

Biomass

Manure

Legumes

Livestock

Hay


28

Estimated nutrient removal by 1 ton of grass hay

• Nitrogen 40 lbs.• Potash (K2O) 60 lbs.• Phosphate (P2O5) 13 lbs.• Sulfur 5 lbs.

• Generalized, but a good proxy for understanding nutrient removal

Dollars and CentsNutrient Lb. Removed

per TonPrice per Pound

Replacement Value

Nitrogen 40 $0.29 $11.60

Phosphate 13 $0.31 $4.03

Potash 60 $0.30 $18.00

Total = $33.63 per ton of hay

Prices from Spring 2014 - National Average

Nutrient Removal in PastureAbout 80% of the nutrients consumed by livestock are excreted as urine and manure

Grazing requires much less fertilizer than haying

Translates into about 9 lb. N3 lb. P2O511 lb. K2O


29

Concentrated Nutrients

Withoutmanagementnutrients will be transferred to areas that contain…

WaterShadeFeed/minerals

Improve low fertility areas

Where do you feed?

LandscapeConsiderations

Summits: lower organic matter, fertility and drierToeslopes: high organic matter, fertility and wetter


30

Even Distribution of Excrement in Pasture

High stocking densityShort occupation periodsClose water < 800 ft.Large stones at water to discourage loafingUse salt/minerals to attract animalsMore intensive management will reduce fertilizer cost

Liebig’s Law of the Minimum Growth (yield) is controlled by the scarcest resource

Soil test for fertility

Look at the Farm- Systems ApproachIf irrigation management, weeds, or grazing are an issue then additional fertility could be a waste

NitrogenMost limiting in grasses and required in largest quantities

Nitrogen increases crude protein content of pure grass or grass-dominated stands

Crude protein in tall fescue has been shown to increase from a low of <9% CP in unfertilized fields to a high of 18% with 150lbs of N/acre


31

Nitrogen applicationLarger amounts of N will change plant community to favor grass over alfalfa and meadow barley, timothy, meadow foxtail over sedge rush

Nitrogen applied in early spring will stimulate rapid growth, tillering and high yields in cool season grasses

Applying nutrient for when crop demand is highest

Important to evaluate production potential of the field and fertilize accordingly

Strategic Use of NitrogenConsiderations:

When do I want more forage?How much total nitrogen do I need?What type of nitrogen source, and when?Will I be applying manure?What is my pasture composition?

Seasonality of Grasses- When do I Want more Forage?


32

Strategic use of NitrogenWhen forage is needed early:

20-40 pounds Nitrogen/acre in March

Excess Nitrogen in the spring may possibly increase toxins in endophyte-infected tall fescue.

May also increase the risk of grass tetany.

Strategic use of NitrogenWhen forage is needed during summer slump:

30-50 pounds Nitrogen/acre as growth starts to slow… May-June

Strategic use of NitrogenWhen forage is needed late:

Stockpile growth for extended grazing by removing summer growth by late July. Apply 40-60 pounds of Nitrogen/acre and manage to stockpile grass.


33

Seasonality of Cool Season Grasses

0

5

10

15

20

25

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Rela

tive

Fora

ge P

rodu

ctio

n

Cool Season Grases

Apply N Apply N Apply N

General N Applications- How Much?

PhosphorousResearch has indicated that phosphorus can reduce the incidence of grass tetany.

Phosphorus regulates the uptake of Mg and Ca.

P losses under grazing conditions are minimal

Critical element for legumes

Critical for seedling establishment


34

Phosphorus-application• Growth response is seen from 60 to 90 days

• Application late fall or early spring is recommended

• Research has shown that fewer applications (at least every two years) of higher rates can be applied more economically than lower rates

• Can also be applied granular or liquid mid-season before too much regrowth

Phosphorus Needs<5ppm is considered deficient 5-15ppm is marginal15+ ppm or greater is considered adequate

4-7ppm 150-2008-10ppm 100-15011-15ppm 50-10015+ppm 0

PotassiumK in Nevada soils

Likely have sufficient levels of native K in soilHigh concentrations in many irrigation watersLow in sandier soils

Higher yielding fields or fields that have been in production for MANY years may have depleted native K

Soil moisture constraint for Nevada soilsLimited moisture limits K diffusion- increasing soil moisture by 10-28% can increase diffusion by 175%


35

SulfurS in Nevada soils:

Plentiful in most soils and in irrigation waterUseful in sandy fields or fields brought into production recentlyLow sulfur in irrigation water, sandy soils or fields that have been in production for many years may lead to low S

Sulfur applicationA response is expected if irrigation water contains less than 5ppm sulfate (SO4

2-)

Most economical practice is to lightly incorporate 200-300lbs of elemental sulfur per acre before planting (for 5+ years of sufficient S)

High potential to burn plant tissue if incorporated too late or applied over head

Applications should be made when temperatures are above 50F

Testing Field Fertility


36

Nutrient Management ToolsField observations combined with soil and/or plant tissue tests

Soil TestsBest estimate, more data

Plant Tissue TestsLess data

Soil and plant tissue testingYou can’t manage what you don’t measure

Provides an index of nutrient availability

Useful in diagnosing nutritional problems or monitor effectiveness of fertility program

Allows for optimization of fertilizer rates, yields and can save fertilizer costs in the long-run

Relative reliability of soil & plant testing

Nutrient Soil testing Tissue testing

P Good Excellent

K Good Poor

S Very Poor Excellent

N Not effective in mixed legume-grass or alfalfa stands

Not effective in mixed legume-grass or alfalfa stands


37

General ConsiderationsNot all species or sites will respond the same to fertilization

Generalizations/recommendations to give you a good proxyExperience and field observations

Cost of additional fertilizer < Value of additional forage ($ x Q)

Cost of additional fertilizer < Value of additional forage ($ x Q)

Assumptions:One acre of improve mixed grasses will produce 4000 lbs. of forage without any fertilizerpH, P, K, S etc. are adequate45 lbs. of forage/ lb. of N appliedCost of N: $300/ton for 46-0-0;920 units N/ton or $.33/unit + application cost (?-Diesel, Equipment, Labor)Cost for an additional lb. of forage is $.007 or $14/ton

Bottom LineA positive economic response to N is obtained from applications of 50-100 lbs. of actual N/acre.


38

Soil testBest for pre-plant P & K

Tissue testIn season nutrient applications or S

Why would you soil test if tissue testing is more accurate?

Cost related to testing and labor

Soil Sampling

Soil samplingGreatest potential for error is taking the sampleContinuous depth

When:Sample in fall after soils are below 50F every 2-3 years

Depth:Dependent on crop and nutrientFor P, K, pH and most micro-nutrients in hay fields samples from 0-12” and 12-24”—keep each separate

Equipment:Probe, tools to clean probe (flat head screw driver), plastic containers, sampling bags (paper bags), pen

Handling:Air dry in front of fan in paper bag

Sampling:In general, get a composite sample (15-40 core samples) and mix thoroughly to get 1 pint of soil from a sampling area (max. sampling area is 25 acres).


39

Methods

Tissue Sampling

Tissue samplingCalifornia method for alfalfa:

1/10th bloom @1st cuttingSampling at earlier stages will have 10% higher nutirentconcentrations

Collect 40-60 alfalfa stems from random areas at swathing height

Divide samples into 3rds (top, middle, lower stemTop 3rd from B and other micronutrientsMiddle 3rd stems for P and KMiddle third leaves for SDiscard lower 3rd


40

Tissue samplingUtah method for alfalfa:

Sample at 1/10th bloom at 2nd cuttingSampling at 1st bloom may show over-winter mineralization surpluses not seen at later cuttings

Collect 50 stem tips 6-8” from random areas

Rinse any dust off, shake water off and air dry

Bag and ship to lab

Tissue sampling

• Lab variability in analysis• Contact lab and use their recommendations

for sampling

Sufficiency rangePercent

CropGrowth Stage Plant Part N P K Ca Mg S

Alfalfa1/10bloom

top 4-6 inches (leaves and stems 3-5

.25-

.702.0-3.5

.8-3.0

.25-1.0

.25-

.50

Tall fescue

actively growing whole plant

2.8-3.8

.26-

.42.5-3.5 ND ND ND


41

Thank you for your time!

Questions?


42

Grazing Management SchoolPaddock and Layout Design

Continuous grazingOne pasture system where livestock have unrestricted

access throughout the grazing season.Advantages• Requires less management• Capital costs are minimalDisadvantages• Lower forage quality and yields• Lower stocking rate and lessforage produced per acre• Uneven pasture use• Greater forage losses due to trampling• Animal manure is distributed unevenly

Simple rotational grazingSystem with more than one pasture in which

livestock are moved to allow for periods of grazingand rest for forages.

Advantages• Can increase forage production and improvepasture condition over continuous grazing• Allows pastures to rest and allows for forageregrowth• Can provide a longer grazing season,reducing the need for feeding harvestedforages• Better distribution of manure throughoutthe pastureDisadvantages• Costs for fencing and water systems can behigher than with continuous grazing• Forage production and pasture utilization isnot as high as intensive rotational


43

Intensive rotational grazingSystem with many pastures/paddocks.

Livestock are moved frequently from paddock topaddock based on forage growth and utilization.

Advantages• Highest forage production and use per acre• Stocking rates can typically be increased• More even distribution of manurethroughout the paddocks• Weeds and brush are usually controlledthrough grazing• Provides more grazing options and reducesthe need for mechanically harvested foragesDisadvantages• Requires careful monitoring of forage supply• Initial costs may be higher due to fencingmaterials and water distribution systems• Requires more management

Components of the Grazing System

• Water• Landscape• Forage• Livestock• Fence

Layout and Design Guidelines• Keep livestock within 800 feet of water

– Improved grazing distribution– More uniform manure distribution– Increased water consumption


44

Layout and Design Guidelines• Plan now for water supply• Water consumption is 15% higher ifavailable in each paddock

“I have seen weight gainincreases of 5 10%over 9 10 months sinceremoving my beef cattlefrom the stream andproviding water fromsprings and wells.”Scott Campbell,Augusta County

Layout and Design Guidelines

• Limit access to streams


• Keep paddock as square as possible– Less fence required

• Each paddock is 10 acres!

2640 ft3380ft

3280 ft


45

Layout and Design Guidelines• Keep paddock as square as possible

– Less fence required– Livestock are closer to water

• Herd animals grazing in circles, will avoid corners• Horses, alpacas graze back and forth

Layout and Design Guidelines• Follow landscape lines for paddock boundaries

– Soil type– Topography– Plant community– Plant growth rates– Keep Fences as straightas possible

Fencing sloped areas

Water lane

Incorrect method of fencing slopes

Ridge

Slope

Bottom

Correct methods of fencing slopes


46


• Make paddocks of similargrazing capacity– Keep diet more consistent– Ease of rotationmanagement

– Can maintain desired restperiod

• Uniform production is theKey!


• Plan lanes for easy livestock movement andmachinery access– If it becomes to unhandy or hard to movelivestock, you will quit or not graze properly

Layout and Design Guidelines• Plan for access to emergency areas fordrought, floods and mud– Sacrifice paddock for supplemental feeding

• Shelter from extreme cold/wet• Shade from extreme heat?

• Depends?• Short hair and heat tolerant?• Good water more important• Good shade – Bad shade• Heat index over 100?• Shade paddock/Portable shade


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Layout and Design Guidelines• Provide secure training facilities

– When exposing new animals to electric fencingthey must be trained to respect psychologicalbarriers

• Area must be a physical barrier• Crowd animals within physical barrier with electricfencing

• Goal is to get as many animals educated (shocked) in asshort of time as possible

Layout and Design Guidelines• Keep livestock within 800 feet of water• Make paddocks as square as possible• Follow Landscape lines for boundaries• Make paddocks of similar grazing capacity• Plan lanes for easy livestock movement andmachinery access

• Plan for access to emergency areas for drought,floods and mud

• Train animals• Flexibility

Getting Started with Paddock Layout

Step 1 Pencil and paper and aerial or soil mapStep 2 Flag proposed systemStep 3 Check gate location and animal flowStep 4 Seek inputStep 5 ModifyStep 6 Build fence and install water system


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Number of Paddocks in System• As the # of Paddocks increases the level ofManagement also increase!

• The length of Grazing period shouldbe…SHORT

• Move Livestock Before Grazed Plants Regrow– Vary by season

– 2 3 days Spring– 4 5 days Summer

Paddock Size VS. Grazing pressure(Livestock # & Weight)

• # of Paddocks isdetermined by GrazingPressure…Which will affectPaddock Size

• Small enough to be GrazedBefore Regrowth

• No Ideal number…11 oftenused in 3 day systemsgiving 30 days of Rest(works well for legumes)

HowMany Paddocks Are Needed

• No. of paddocks = Days rest + 1Days grazing

• 15 day rest/ 3 days grazing = 6 paddocks



• 44 day rest/4 days grazing = 12 paddocks


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How Big Should the Paddocks Be ?

What You Need to Know:1) Amount of feed animal needs from pasture =

[(A X B) C] X D

A = Total body weight of all animalsB = DM requirements per day

Beef & Sheep 2.5% 3% of body weightDairy 3.5% 4% of body weight

C = Supplemental feeds (silage, hay, grain)D = Length of grazing period

What You Need to Know:2) Available forage from the pasture =

[(D E) X F] X G

D = Forage height in paddockE = Remaining stubbleF = DM yield per acre

Range = 100 500 pounds ofDM per inch of growth per acre

G = Utilization rate (75% 90%)


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Beef Example:A = 30 beef cows @ 1250 pounds each =

37,500 pounds of body weightB = DM requirement/day 3%C = 0 = No supplemental feedD = 1 = One day paddock

[(37,500# X 3%) 0] X 1day =1,125 pounds of dry matter (DM) needed/day

Beef Example (cont.):D = Pasture at 8” tallE = 3” remaining stubbleF = 300# DM/inchG = Utilization rate 75% (25% wastage)

[(8” 3”) X 300#] X 75% =1,125 # available DM

Beef Example (cont.):Therefore, 1 acre with 1,125# of available DMwill supply the DM requirements of the 30 cowsfor one day.


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Dairy Example:A = 100 dairy cows @ 1350# each =

135,000 pounds of body weightB = DM requirement/day 4%C = 1800# grain mixD = 0.5 = One half day per paddock

[(135,000# X 4%) 1800#] X 0.5 days =1,800# dry matter (DM) needed for 1/2 day

paddock

Dairy Example (cont.):

D = Pasture at 8” tallE = 3” remaining stubbleF = 300# DMG = Utilization rate 85% (15% wastage)

[(8” 3”) X 300#] X 85% =1,275 # available DM

Dairy Example (cont.):Therefore, approximately 1.5 acres with 1,275#of available DM will supply the forage requirementsof the 100 dairy cattle for half a day.


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Sheep Example:A = 250 ewes @ 150# each =

37,500 pounds of body weightB = DM requirement/day 3%C = 0 = No supplemental feedD = 1 = One day per paddock

[(37,500# X 3%) 0#] X 1 day =1,125# dry matter (DM) needed/day

Sheep Example (cont.):D = Pasture at 8” tallE = 3” remaining stubbleF = 300# DMG = Utilization rate 75% (25% wastage)

[(8” 3”) X 300#] X 75% =1,125 # available DM

Sheep Example (cont.):Therefore, 1 acre with 1,125# of available DMwill supply the DM requirements of the 250 ewesfor one day.


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NRCS Forage Calculator

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/mi/technical/landuse/pasture/

Land resources map

Soils map http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/HomePage.htm


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Sensitive areas and soil limitation area map

Fence Location Map


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Summary

• There is no perfect system,only those that use foodmanagement principles tobest fit available resources.

• The most flexible systemwill have some combinationof permanent and portablefencing and water.

“Next week I’ll rotate ‘em toanother neighbor’s fenceline”

Questions?NRCS Pasture and Grazing Tools

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/mi/technical/landuse/pasture/


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Grazing Management SchoolFencing

Fencing• Purpose – Most fences are used to keep domesticanimals where you want them.– This may mean keeping livestock in an area or excludethem from certain areas

– Fences may also be used to keep wild animals andvermin away from livestock

• Considerations for Installation– Livestock and wildlife movement– Management and handling needs– Security– Watering– Costs– Etc.

Fencing Types

• Permanent– Constructed with materials having a minimumlifespan of 20 years

• Semi permanent– Constructed with permanent types materials, butmay be easily changed

• Temporary– Constructed with light weight materials that maybe moved frequently


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Permanent Fence Materials• Woven Wire• Barbed Wire• High Tensile

– Non Electric, Electrified• Board or Split rail• Wood Post• Steel Post• Recycled Plastic• Etc.

Temporary Fence Materials• Energizer• Ground rods• Fencing

– Poly wire– Poly tape– Electro net

• Post– Plastic step in– Steel/Fiberglass Rods– T Post

• Insulators• Lead out andUnderground cable

• Etc.


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Temporary Electrified Fence System

• A psychological barrier• Lower cost• Easy to construct• Easy to move

Fence Energizers• Modern fence chargers create moderate tohigh voltage with low impedance– Alternating Current (AC)– Solar– Battery

AC Fence Charger

Leadout cable

Yellow cutout switches A D

Lightning diverter


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Solar Fence Charger

Grounding Rods

Rule of thumb: 1 rod for each 5 joules of stored energy, minimum of 3rods, but this can vary with soil type and moisture

Grounding Rods• Without proper grounding no energizer can maximize its

potential!!!• Properly grounded systems should have a minimum of 3 ground

rods, 1/2 5/8 inch diameter, 6 8 ft. in length, placed in a series nocloser than 10’ from the previous rod– (Rule of thumb: 1 rod for each 5 joules of stored energy, minimum of 3 rods,

but this can vary with soil type and moisture).

• Ground rods should be galvanized or copper to resist rust andcorrosion.


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Grounding Rod (cont.)• The wire that connect rods to the energizer should be aone piece continuous wire (12 gauge or larger) andsecurely attached to each rod using a ground rodclamp.

• The ground wire used should be of the same materialas the ground rods to reduce corrosion (electrolysis) atthe point of attachment.

• Fence grounding systems are most effective whenconstructed in continuously damp, high mineral soil.Fence grounding systems should be at least 33 ft.(further is better) from other electrical or telephonegrounding systems.

• To eliminate stray voltage problems, fence groundsshould be kept 33 ft. away from metal water pipes and66 ft. or more away from dairy shed pipework.

Lightning Choke• A lightning choke shouldbe installed in the leadout cable to maximizesafety for your energizer

• A choke provides ablocking effect forextremely high voltagesof lightning and diverts itto the ground to protectthe energizer.

Porcelain Lightning Diverter


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Blade Type Cut Out Switch

• Switches may be used toisolate areas turningpower on or off withinthe system.

• Switches can be a greathelp when trying tolocate a short or whenmaking repairs in anelectrified system.

Leadout/Underground Cable

• Never use household electrical wire in highvoltage electrified fence systems

• Use insulated cable for undergroundapplications where gates are installed

Spinning Jenny

Spinning Jenny’s are used to eliminate tangledmesses or possible injury when building high tensilefence.


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Fence Reels

Light weight reel

Electrified Netting

Originally used for sheep, but now is usedwith goats, poultry, rabbits, calves etc.


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Light Weight Post

Plastic & MetalStep in Posts

Eucalyptus Post

FiberglassT Post

Tumble Wheels

Ratchet Strainer

For maintaining tension on high tensile fences.


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Daisy Wheels

Daisy wheels may be used to tightenfences without cutting the wire.

Pin lock Insulator

Used where the wire mayneed to be dropped to allowequipment to pass over top.

Tube Insulator


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Claw Style Insulators

Movable Post and Insulator

Corner Insulators


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Gate Handles

Gates

Drive Through Gates


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Final Thoughts• Design a fence system that will control your animals and one

you feel comfortable with for your situation

• If building fences for incentive payments programs or linefences, make sure to follow standards and specificationsaccording to requirements– "legal fence" means a fence with not less than four horizontal

barriers, consisting of wires, boards, poles or other fence material incommon use in the neighborhood, with posts set not more that 20feet apart.

– The lower barrier must be not more than 12 inches from the groundand the space between any two barriers must be not more that 12inches and the height of top barrier must be at least 48 inchesabove the ground.

– Every post must be so set as to withstand a horizontal strain of 250pounds at a point 4 feet from the ground, and each barrier must becapable of withstanding a horizontal strain of 250 pounds at anypoint midway between the posts.

• Purchase a good energizer and install the proper groundingsystem to keep livestock where you want them

Questions?


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Plant Competition in Grazing Systems

Seth UrbanowitzExtension Educator

AnimalManagement

PlantManagement

RanchManagement(Human Factor)

Manager’s Goal

Reduce feed costs

Reduce costs

Increase production and maintain quality (plant and animal)

Reduce amount of labor


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Animal’s GoalEat the best tasting, most desirable plant available

If that plant re-grows, eat it again

Plant’s Goal

Reproduce by producing a seed head

Store carbohydrates in stem and crown tissues (grass) or tap root (legumes) for recovery and regrowth (pests, drought, grazing, heat)

Cope with stresses through grazing tolerance (reserves) or production of allelochemicals to reduce palatability

Plants in Pasture SystemsPasture systems are more competitive than more cultivated systems

Weeds are very competitive:Efficient at scavenging for nutrients and waterTolerate a wider range of environmental conditionsGrow rapidlyGerminate and emerge over a wider range of environmental conditionsMany have polymorphic seeds, often resistant to animal digestionAbundant seed production


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Weed Control in Agricultural Systems

Herbicide used for maintaining standsDicamba, 2,4-D, etc. for grass pastures

• Not a tool for heavy weed infestationVigorous, uniform stands should be used to prevent or slow weed infestations

Grazing Management

Manager

AnimalPlant


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Grazing influences plant vigor

Root carbohydrate storage

Rooting depth

Treading/hoof action

Nutrient distribution

Treading/Hoof Action

Bunch species (timothy, perennial rye , orchard) are less tolerant of treading than sod species (tall fescue, indiangrass)

Legumes (alfalfa) are less tolerant to treading than grasses

Compaction can lead to reduced bulk density making an area more suited for weed colonization

Root Carbohydrate Storage: Saving Account

Plant regrowth after harvest:From carbohydrates produced by remaining leaf areaFrom carbohydrate reserves

Enough withdrawals and you will lose stand vigor and change species composition

In season or after winter die-off


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Managing Plant GrowthResidual management (take half, leave half) and plant rest are grazing principles that must be followed to get best plant growth and plant health

The intensity, and frequency of defoliation is managed through pasture divisions

Severe defoliation during the later part of the growing season is detrimental to the plant

Livestock’s Relationship with Plants: Palatability

Usually avoid grazing weedsTaste, smell, texture, tearing resistance, moisture contentMost have an acrid, bitter tasteAllelochemicals may cause negative digestive consequences

However, many are similar in structural components and digestibility to grasses and forbs

Species of Herbivore: Plant Consumption

Cattle prefer grasses, sheep prefer forbs and goats prefer browse

Cattle and horses actively avoid most weedy forbs

Multispecies grazing will help restore balance to the plant community


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Stocking Rate/IntensityForcing the animals to eat weeds

Altering plant availability

Even at high stocking rates, animals will still graze preferred plant

Still potentially giving a competitive advantage to the weed

Concentrating animals to control more palatable weeds is best to reduce weed populations

Avoid weed seed dispersal by animals

Many weed seeds are polymorphic (resistant to animal digestion)

If livestock have been grazing noxious weedsQuarantine for a period and feed weed-free forage

• 7-10 days

Avoid livestock grazing in weed infested areas during flowering and seeding stages

Preventing the Establishment and Spread of Weeds

o General management programs o Equipmento Vegetationo Animalso Wasteso Grounds

Weed Management involves more than your production field – it’s the entire property and maybe more


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Farm / Ranch Waste Management

o Manure or waste managemento Seeds can persist for yearso Know your weed species and longevity of their

seedo Don’t move to uncontaminated areas

Grounds Management

o Minimize soil disturbance and bare groundo Kill new weeds before first seed set

o Early control is cheapest and easiesto Some seed viable for decades

o If flowered, remove carefullyo Inspect disturbed areas frequently

o Most likely place for new weeds

Animal Managemento Purchase weed free hay/forage

o Don’t move animals from weedy to clean pastures when seed can be spreado Dispersing from flowers o Seeds in mud stick to hooves, hide and ATV’s


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Vegetation Managemento Plant with weed-free certified seedo Maintain desired species

o High densities and vigoro Know management needs of your vegetation

o Appropriate amount of water/nutrientso Too much or too little weakens vegetation

o Know what you are transporting o Know what is being transported to you

Equipment Management

o Avoid driving in weed infested areaso Don’t spread seed from contaminated areas o Clean before entering different fields

o Remove mud, dirt, and plant partso When possible, use a quarantine area

Thank you!


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Grazing Management SchoolEconomics

Agendao Introduction/Principles of Managed Grazingo Understanding Forage Growth

o Plant physiologyo Forage species selectiono Soil fertilization

o Grazing Systems Layout and Designo Grazing mathematicso FencingWeed Control with GrazingEconomics

Cost share programsLunchField Exercise

Economic Considerations

• Is Grazing a Profitable Enterprise?• Yes,

–BECAUSE it INCREASES PRODUCTION andREDUCES COST if done properly.


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Economic Considerations• What if you were told of a special cropproduction system that would increase outputby at least 30% and reduce your cost by 50%


• In Most Situations Managed Rotational Grazingwill do both increase production and reduce costby:– Increasing carrying capacity– Increase ADG– Improved herd health– Longer productive life

• It also results in larger calf crops and producersare more aware of the health of the herd

Economic Considerations• In Most Situations ManagedRotational Grazing will do bothincrease production and reduce costby:– Reducing Feed Cost– Reducing Fertilizer Needs– Greater Weed Control– Less Fuel Needs– Less Labor(yes you move theanimals but they harvest)

– Less Manure to Haul


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Economic Considerations• Is Grazing a Profitable Enterprise?• Do I have the Necessary….

– Land– Cattle– Fencing– Labor– Capital


• Profitability• Do a Balance Sheet• Project Expenses and Income• Look at History of Operations• Remember Most Markets are Cyclical

– Get in when prices are low– Get out or reduce inventory when prices up

Grazing Economics

• Managed Intensive Grazing (MIG)– Offers greater management Flexibility– Comes at an added cost

• Fence• Water systems• Labor• Higher level of management required• Greater investment per animal


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Fencing Cost• One of the largest expenses in Grazing• Many different options but some rules apply

– Have secure perimeter fence– Use temporary or portable fence in cells– Use the lay of the land to your advantage– Be flexible in cell sizing

Woven WireFence

Barbed WireFence

Cost of Fencing


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High Tensile Fence

Cost of Fencing

Poly Wire Fence


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Cost of Fencing

What about Equipment• One of the primarybenefits of Grazing is theMachinery necessary– Many producers limitthemselves to a:

– Tractor with loader– Manure spreader– One hay making set ofequipment(square balesor round baler)

Managed Grazing; Will it pay?

• General statements about the value ofrotational grazing could be misleading becauseof very significant differences in pasture quality,field layout, water availability, and managementability among farms.

• What can be stated categorically is that theeconomic benefits of rotational grazing dependon the cattle price as well as costs ofimplementing the system.


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Effect of year-round continuous vs. rotational stocking of endophyte-free tall fescue and common bermuda grass mixed grass pastures at Central Georgia BranchStation, Eatonton, Ga., 3-year average.

Continuous Rotational Change, %

Stocking rate, cow-calf units/acre 0.50 0.68 +36

Calf weaning weight, lb 502 502 0

Total calf gain/acre, lb251 342 +36

Cow pregnancy rate, % 94 93 0

Hay fed/cow, lb 2,390 1,690 29

Source: Dr. Carl Hoveland, University of Georgia

Managed Grazing; Will it pay?

• Producers who implement rotational grazingneed to be aware not only of how thismanagement change will affect the long runprofitability of their operations but also of howtheir cash flow will be affected in the short andintermediate run.– Herd expansion, in particular, may have a pronouncednegative effect on cash flow, depending upon how theexpansion is financed and/or the time frame overwhich the expansion occurs.

Resources

• Fence Worksheet• Water Worksheet• NRCS Graze Calculator• NRCS Design Plan• NRCS Fence Plan• NRCS Principles• Grazing Handbooks


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