Don’t neglect grazing strategies this summer
Take the time to understand how grasses grow and their optimum uses and best management. This sets the course for systems, strategies and opportunities.
Like livestock, score your pasture condition
The Guide to Pasture Condition Scoring can help graziers identify and prioritize management practices that may improve pasture productivity.
Managing pastures for genetic potential
A recent study out of the University of Illinois suggests that the low energy and high protein in lush pastures may have a negative impact on reproduction.
How to identify poisonous plants
Poison hemlock is not the only plant that you should be on the lookout for. Jimsonweed, pokeweed and black locust are potentially poisonous to livestock.
How I use watergates on my cattle farm
In the ideal world, they need to be able to hold in or deter livestock, but be able to allow water and debris to pass during periods of high water.
Fertilizing forages, pastures improves growth
If hay is harvested year after year and not fertilized, production will decrease substantially.
How to divide pastures for better performance
The essential principles are to avoid overgrazing the grass plant and to provide a rest period that allows the plant to regrow to a target grazing height.
Diversity on the farm: My cows are prejudiced
What should you consider when trying to accomplish diversity and inclusiveness on the farm? Columnist Ed Brown lays out the benefits and concerns.
Plant chemicals don’t always benefit livestock
Many times livestock show a preference for forbs, legumes or one type of grass over another. This preference can be species dependent or an animal's custom.
Grazing behavior depends on species, location
Each livestock species has a tool or set of tools that help it gather food, grind and swallow.
