OSU Analyzes Cattle Grazing Systems To Maximize Production

Apr 06, 2015

With drought and the high cost of land, Oklahoma State University has been looking at alternatives for cattle producers to maximize their grazing resources. OSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Dr. Dave Lalman has been evaluating two different grazing systems. The extensive approach utilizes moderate grazing over a large number of acres or a more intensive system that utilizes cropland to reduce the amount of pastureland needed. Lalman said they evaluated both options to determine which system allowed them to have comparable beef production.

With one acre of cropland, Lalman said they used the forage as a supplement or as a summer forage source. OSU planted a cover crop for summer grazing, then limit grazed wheat during the winter months.

“That’s the intensification, is basically using that one acre of cropland about six months out of the year, where the native grassland could rest,” Lalman said.

The more extensive system uses more pasture or grazing land with minimum inputs. This system uses a moderate to low stocking rate of 13 acres per cow-calf unit. Lalman said a lot producers stock heavier than that, but then they will also feed more hay.

“The extensive system was designed to minimize inputs, so very little hay feeding, just a little bit of protein supplement during the winter,” Lalman said.

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