Upgrade your grazing land - free program in MO

By Blake Jackson

The University of Missouri Extension is seeking farmers interested in a project that enhances productivity and environmental benefits of tall fescue grasslands. Participating farms will receive compensation while working with specialists to implement proven management practices.

"This project directly invests in Missouri farmers seeking to improve grazing lands using climate-smart practices," says Harley Naumann, MU Extension forage specialist. "We'll tailor these practices to each farm's unique goals, ensuring they're functionally adaptable."

Funded by the USDA's Climate Smart Commodities program, the project is a collaborative effort by the Grasslands Partnership, a consortium of extension services in nine tall fescue belt states.

Here's a glimpse of potential practices explored in the project:

• Native Warm-Season Grasses: Establish pastures with these drought-resistant grasses for improved forage production.
• Grazing Management: Implement strategic grazing techniques to enhance pasture health and livestock performance.
• Legume Integration: Introduce nitrogen-fixing legumes as a sustainable alternative to commercial fertilizers.
• Perennial Field Buffers: Create buffer zones between fields and waterways to improve water quality.
• Silvopasture: Integrate trees into existing pastures for shade, forage, and habitat diversification.
• Soil Amendments: Explore the benefits of biochar or gypsum for improved soil health.

Beyond financial incentives, participating farms can expect increased forage drought tolerance, healthier soil and water, enhanced wildlife habitat, and potential carbon market opportunities.

Extension specialists will collaborate with each farm to identify the most suitable practices. Ideally, three or more practices will be implemented across different pastures. A control pasture with your usual management practices will be maintained as a comparison point.

Commitment includes record-keeping, allowing farm access for monitoring, and hosting field days throughout the five-year project.

For more information contact project coordinator Ellen Herring at emh3d9@umsystem.edu.

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