Rotational grazing is done for a variety of reasons. One reason, according to Brie Menjoulet, agronomy specialist for University of Missouri Extension, is to more evenly distribute manure and urine excretions by livestock. Menjoulet also mentions that, “By not overgrazing, there are green parts of the grass that are able to start photosynthesizing to reproduce leaf and stem material. Overgrazing forces the plant to use carbohydrate reserves in the root system to start regrowth. Also, a root system doesn’t start growing until ample green material on the surface is photosynthesizing. So overgrazing also produces plants with weaker root systems because they (the plant) are focused on replenishing and re-growing the top versus what’s below the surface.”
According to an article published by the MUGuide, “Managed Grazing Systems and Fencing for Distribution of Beef Manure,” when you allow better plant growth to occur, you also have a better cover to catch rain that impedes run off of plant nutrients and animal manure. This helps to not only keep your pastures healthy but aides in not polluting waterways as well.
This article describes rotational grazing as being from two to seven pastures. Management intensive grazing (MIG) is the producer that moves their cattle between eight or more pastures. Long rest periods occur following short grazing periods in this MIG environment. The article recommends ready access to water located midway in the pasture if possible. They also describe how many producers choose to use electric fence for their portable paddocks and train their animals to use the fence. They can then move the fencing as needs change.
Rotational grazing can also be utilized by leaving your last hay cutting on the ground and letting your cattle graze in the field. This saves you time and money from cutting and baling and gives your pasture yet another break.
Tim Schnakenberg, regional agronomy specialist for the University of Missouri Extension has this advice for extending your grazing season. “Lime and clover are the two best approaches for economically enhancing the fertility base of a pasture or hayfield. Clover and lime provide a greater amount of nutrients for the money spent on them than what most fertilizer sources can provide. If the clover is not in the system yet, producers may want to apply 50-60 pounds of nitrogen per acre if spring forage is short for the stocking density that is planned. Otherwise apply smaller amounts in various paddocks as needed following the initial grazing sequences to stimulate regrowth prior to the dormant season. Phosphate and potash can also be addressed at any time ahead of the growing season.
If there is a concern for a lack of hay for the coming season, oats can be planted in late February to give some quick forage. However, they should only be planted in fields where competition from existing grasses and forages is minimal. This is vital for their success. If pasture is short (in supply), there is opportunity to plant turnips or another brassica in late February. Again, it would be most successful where competition is minimal. Oats can also be used for pasture.”
