High Plains Journal, KS
06-18-07
Where to spend the first dollars in pasture management
* Evaluate fertility status and soil test so you know where and what to spend
money on. Then fertilize (lime and fertilizer) to moderate soil test levels.
* Graze early (especially on fescue pasture) to utilize early grass production and
avoid mature or wasted pasture production that was not grazed.
* Develop a watering system. Grass isn't of much use without water.
* Frost seed legumes.
* Practice rotational grazing to allow pastures to rest.
* In stocker programs consider supplementing with gluten-corn mix or distillers
grains to improve gain and increase carrying capacity of pastures.
* Hay the early surplus growth and then stockpile for later summer/fall/winter
grazing.
* Educate yourself through grazing publications; Extension/NRCS programs;
grazing clinics, field days or pasture walks; Iowa Forage and Grasslands Council
meetings/conferences; mentors and other successful graziers.
* Install fencing for increased number of tracts and better rotational grazing.
* Control weeds and brush.
* Improve pasture composition. Interseed new grass or legume species.
Consider Palaton canary grass. Spread alfalfa, trefoil and red clover.
Source: Rathbun Lake Forage Project and Iowa State University Extension