GRAZING MANAGEMENTWhat is proper
grazing management?
Grazing management is planned to avoid overusing forage plants and to
avoid undesirable effects on soils and water quality. The keys to good
grazing management are control of the timing, intensity and distribution of
grazing on the land. Good management will insure that plants are grazed at a
level which will maintain or improve the impacts on soil and water quality
caused by livestock concentration. Periodic rest from grazing during the
growing season allows grazed plants and soils to recover from grazing.
How does grazing management contribute to conservation goals?
Good plant cover is the key to reducing soil erosion on uplands by
increasing infiltration of water into the soil rather than allowing it to
run off quickly. Reduced soil erosion improves downstream water quality.
Water quality is also enhanced by regulating the season and length of
grazing periods in riparian areas. Good grazing management promotes a
diversity of plant species for wildlife habitat and insures that adequate
vegetation is left after grazing for wildlife food and cover. Good rangeland
management allow the sustainable harvest of a natural forage supply to
provide high-quality food and many by-products without the intensive use of
fossil fuels, fertilizers, pesticides or other artificial inputs.
