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May is an ideal time to evaluate grazing management
An extension forage systems specialist says now is a good time for producers to evaluate their grazing management strategies.
Daren Redfearn with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln says planning ahead could help avoid overgrazing. “When we do have limited moisture, there are some leaves available to the plant that have energy for leaf growth. If we graze it pretty hard, and don’t leave any leaves remaining, we’re not going to have much growth at all.”
He tells Brownfield there are a few strategies that producers should start thinking about based on the amount of moisture received this month. “Some of that will be reduced stocking rates in some instances. I hate to use destocking, but it won’t be widespread.”
Redfearn says May can be a good indicator for future pasture growth. “Below normal precipitation is going to result in reduced grass production. Near normal or above normal precipitation will enhance pasture production. This is the pasture production that’s going to occur in June, July and on into August.”
He says pasture conditions vary across the Great Plains and recent moisture will help but widespread improvement isn’t expected.
Daren Redfearn:
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