Maintaining healthy, productive herds
Fescue pastures are a staple in many cattle operations, but without proper management, they can present significant health challenges for cow-calf pairs.
Raising cow-calf pairs on fescue pastures presents unique challenges, but with the right management strategies, producers can maintain healthy, productive herds.
Fescue is a widely used forage in cattle operations across the U.S., but it comes with risks, particularly fescue toxicosis. This condition, caused by toxic endophytes in certain fescue varieties, can lead to poor weight gain, reduced milk production and heat stress in cattle.
“Producers managing cow-calf pairs on fescue need to be proactive in their approach,” said Dr. Mark Johnson, a livestock specialist. “By implementing strategic grazing and proper supplementation, they can mitigate the negative effects of toxic fescue.”
One of the most effective management practices is rotational grazing. Allowing pastures to rest and recover improves forage quality and reduces the likelihood of cattle consuming excessive toxic endophytes. Pairing fescue with legumes like clover or alfalfa can also dilute its effects while boosting forage nutrition.
Providing proper mineral supplementation is another key strategy. Research has shown that feeding high-magnesium mineral mixes can help alleviate some of the negative impacts of fescue toxicosis. Additionally, ensuring adequate water availability is critical, as cattle consuming toxic fescue often struggle with heat stress.
Calving on fescue pastures requires careful planning. Calves born in the spring may experience better growth rates due to improved forage conditions, while fall-calving pairs may require additional supplementation to maintain body condition through the winter months.
By utilizing these management strategies, producers can maximize the benefits of fescue pastures while minimizing their risks. With the right approach, cow-calf operations can maintain strong herd performance and long-term profitability.
