Impact of grazing management on forage productivity
JEFF BRAIDEK
GOVERNMENT OF SASKATCHEWAN
April 2012 - Feb 2014
Audience(s): Cow-Calf Project Type(s): Demonstration
Forage productivity is has implications on long term financial viability. This project examined how species mix and grazing practices can impact long term forage productivity.
Three mixes were planted including: (1) sainfoin, alfalfa, meadow bromegrass, (2) cicer milkvetch, alfalfa, meadow bromegrass, and (3) alfalfa, green needlegrass, northern wheatgrass, western wheatgrass, needle and thread, rough fescue, blue grama. Forage productivity was monitored under two grazing systems: (1) moderately grazing with a twice-over grazing system, and (2) heavy gracing with simulated continuous grazing.
The proportion of sainfoin was the same under moderate grazing but decreased in heavy grazing. While the proportion of cicer in the mixture increased under moderate grazing and was no different under heavy grazing. Forage yields were less under heavy grazing versus moderate grazing all mixtures. Forage quality as measured by crude protein was lower on sainfoin with heavy grazing, and higher on cicer milkvetch with heavy grazing. Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) was higher on both mixtures with heavy grazing, but could be due to concentration in plants.
Goals:
Goal #3: Enhance ecosystem services and biodiversity on lands managed by beef producers
Goal #9:Increase the financial viability of beef production in Canada
Indicators Addressed:
- Grasslands, tame pastures and native ecosystems are maintained or enhanced
Communication Tools:
http://www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/apps/adf/ADFAdminReport/20120431.pdf
Tagged as: Grazing Management