Improving Pasture Productivity through Forage Management

I must confess that putting these thoughts and ideas onto paper is more difficult then just opening my mouth and letting those same thoughts roll out. When I began rotational grazing in 1992, I realized there was a lot I didn’t know. Today I realize that there is even more I don’t know. My management decisions reflect the thought process that I have developed through reading, attending conferences, participating in pasture walks, and trial and error. Without a doubt, the most valuable tool in my possession is the knowledge that I have acquired. Limited time and resources, higher land prices, lower cattle prices, all of these influence the decisions I make. As land prices increase, my carrying capacities must increase and my cost per head must decrease. It will be tough to remain in the cattle business at the ratio of 1 cow/calf pair for every 3 acres; how much nicer it would be to achieve 1 cow/calf pair for every 1.5 acre. So let’s take a look at various aspects that can perhaps move us in this direction