By Blake Jackson
As winter winds down, many farmers and ranchers are ready to stop feeding hay and return cattle to pasture. However, University of Missouri Extension state grazing specialist Harley Naumann cautions that turning livestock out too early can create problems that last all season.
“Late winter grazing pressure on cool-season pastures can compromise spring regrowth,” Naumann said. “It is important to not begin grazing too early – at spring green-up, for example.”
Allowing cattle onto green pastures before plants are fully ready can reduce total forage production, drain carbohydrate reserves stored in roots and weaken overall plant health.
“When combined with the ever-present potential for drought, pastures can quickly be set up for failure,” Naumann says. “While we may be tired of feeding hay, avoid the temptation and delay turnout for the sake of pasture health and productivity.”
Rather than grazing, late winter offers a valuable window for preparation. Producers can inspect fences, check water systems and evaluate paddock design. Establishing proper rest and recovery periods is one of the most critical management steps for maintaining productive pastures. Monitoring forage residuals and adjusting grazing plans can help prevent “rotational overgrazing.”
This is also a practical time to evaluate forage supplies. “Many farms and ranches exit winter with tighter hay and stockpiled forage reserves than planned,” says Naumann.
“The saying ‘It takes grass to grow grass’ couldn’t be truer,” Naumann says. Overgrazing stockpiled forage can thin stands and limit spring growth. Reviewing forage budgets and considering options such as supplementation, early weaning or alternative forages can address potential shortfalls.
Late winter can also be ideal for frost-seeding legumes like annual lespedeza to improve summer nutrition and add nitrogen to the soil.
“As spring approaches, patience and planning now can pay dividends all grazing season long. Delay turnout, protect forage recovery and make thoughtful adjustments to grazing plans for healthier pastures and more resilient forage systems,” Naumann says.
“A few proactive decisions in late winter often make the difference between merely getting by and setting pastures up for long-term success.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Hay & Forage, Livestock, Dairy Cattle