By Blake Jackson
As summer approaches, livestock producers should focus on managing cool-season pastures to maintain forage quality and cattle performance, according to University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist Patrick Davis.
“Cool-season pastures are becoming overmature and need to be reset,” says Davis. Proper pasture management during this period can help sustain animal productivity and contribute to a profitable grazing operation.
One of Davis’s key recommendations is pasture clipping. “Clip pastures to return them to the optimum growing height for cattle performance,” says Davis.
As grasses mature and begin producing seed heads, forage quality declines because more plant energy is directed toward reproduction rather than leaf growth.
Clipping helps restore pastures to the ideal 4- to 8-inch height range, encouraging new vegetative growth and improving forage quality throughout the summer.
Davis also advises producers to minimize health risks associated with toxic compounds found in seed heads. “Reduce toxin-related health problems by clipping seed heads from cool-season grasses,” says Davis.
Fescue seed heads often contain ergovaline, while both fescue and orchardgrass may harbor ergot alkaloids. These compounds can restrict blood flow in cattle, reducing their ability to regulate body temperature and increasing the likelihood of heat stress.
Seed heads may also irritate the eyes, potentially contributing to pinkeye.
Maintaining proper grazing heights is equally important. “Avoid grazing pastures too short, and allow enough rest for regrowth during the grazing season,” says Davis.
Cool-season grasses should not be grazed below 4 inches, as excessive grazing weakens root systems, slows regrowth, and reduces stand longevity.
Rest periods of 30 to 45 days are generally recommended, with longer recovery times needed during drought conditions.
In addition to pasture management, Davis encourages producers to monitor animal condition. “Watch cattle body condition and manure to make sure nutritional needs are being met,” says Davis.
Tracking body condition scores and manure consistency can help identify nutritional deficiencies and guide supplementation decisions.
“Optimum pasture management this time of year is important for a successful summer grazing season and sets up the forage for good performance in the fall,” says Davis.
Davis adds that sound management practices also support cow fertility, herd productivity, and calf performance later in the year.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-r-j-seymour
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Hay & Forage, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle