2011 Grazing Video Conference
What is Rotational Grazing?
Rotational grazing is a livestock production system where livestock graze in one portion (a paddock) of a pasture that has been divided into several paddocks. Livestock are systematically moved from paddock to paddock based on the stage of growth of the forages and on the objectives of the grazing system. While one paddock is being grazed, the rest of the pasture rests. This rest and recovery time maintains forage plants in a healthy and vigorous condition.
Benefits of Rotational Grazing
- Improved forage production
- Improved rainfall infiltration
- Reduced runoff
- Improved soil health
- Reduced soil erosion
- Diverse wildlife habitat
- Carbon sequestration
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- Reduced costs of production
- Reduced fuel use
- Reduced machinery use
- Reduced fertilizer and pesticide use
- Reduced labor
- Minimize feedlot issues
- Improved animal health
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Why Develop a Rotational Grazing Plan?
- To increase overall farm profitability.
- To have a written plan and grazing map to help with decisions on when and where to move livestock.
- To have a grazing plan that could become part of the conservation plan for the entire farm. These plans can be used to qualify for USDA-NRCS conservation programs, such as the Environmental Quality Incentive Program.
Components of a Grazing Plan
- Environmentally sensitive areas
- Goals for the grazing enterprise
- Livestock summary
- Grazing system management
- Fencing system
- Livestock water system
- Forages
- Cost estimates
MDA staff, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), is available to develop rotational grazing plans.
More Information
See the Minnesota Conservation Funding Guide, a one-stop online tool to learn about key conservation practices, programs, and payments, such as: Rotational Grazing, Fencing, Livestock Watering Facility, Pasture/Hay Planting, Stream Crossing.
MDA Contact
Wayne Monsen, Grazing Specialist
or USDA-NRCS District Office in your area
Wayne.Monsen@state.mn.us ~ 651-201-6260
Ag Marketing & Development Division |
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