Tree Growth and Cattle Weight Gain in a Ponderosa Pine System

Integrated timber and livestock systems (silvopastoral) are common in several regions of the United States. Grazing of three timber stands in eastern Nebraska showed no signs of tree damage due to rubbing or soil compaction. Steer gains were lower under the silvopastoral system compared to a typical pasture system (1.05 lb/day versus 1.70 lb/day). Growth of timber in silvopastoral stands was reduced (35.0 cubic feet per year versus 37.8 cubic feet per year); however, total productivity of the silvopastoral system (timber plus livestock) was greater ($20.98/acre) than with traditional timber systems