Grazing management has come a long way since the days of stone walls and barbed wire fence! And yet, we find that the old becomes new again, but this time with modern science and modern equipment. From energizers to pig tail posts, there is a lot to sort out just in new technology options. But the tricks to good grazing start with a focus on soil, plant and livestock health. The focus on herd impact as opposed to just herd size and duration are very important. Modern grazing is all about managing both the amount of forage taken at a given time, and how long the plants are allowed to regrow before regrazing. Our grazing specialist, Cheryl Cesario, is here to help Champlain Valley farmers navigate the challenges and rewards of good grazing. Cheryl works with new grazers, seasoned grazers, and skeptical grazers alike. Contact her with questions - Cheryl.Cesario@uvm.edu.
Grazing Resources
Managing Pasture as a Crop (PDF): A Guide to Good Grazing, by Darrell Emmick, Ph.D., UVM Extension
Grazing Heifers: An Opportunity for Large Dairy Farms [Cornell](PDF)
Grazing Management and Soil Health, NRCS (PDF)
Frost Seeding, A Cheap Alternative to Improving Hay and Pasture (PDF), Dr. Heather Darby
Characteristics of Forage and Pasture Grasses Found in the Northeast U.S. (PDF), Dr. Sid Bosworth (retired)
Characteristics of Forage Legumes Found in the Northeast U.S. (PDF), Dr. Sid Bosworth (retired)
Grazing Links
Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Pasture Livestock Program
Vermont Grass Farmers Association
University of Maine’s Pasture Management Course
Grazing systems planning guide [U of Minnesota Extension and NRCS]