Just a few generations ago nearly all heifers spent part of the year on pasture. Today, many farmers choose not to implement grazing. But there’s good reason for farmers to consider going back to their roots. It’s important to understand the distinctions between managed grazing and other types of grazing management.

“The shift towards sustainable grazing aligns with increasing focus on soil and water conservation and soil health,” explains Jason Cavadini, UW-Extension Grazing Specialist. “Livestock grazing plays a crucial role in promoting soil health by fostering a complete functioning ecosystem.”

He added that getting livestock back on the land has numerous benefits, not just for soil health but also for overall land management. He has been engaging dairy farmers in discussions about incorporating grazing into their operations, which can significantly reduce heifer-raising costs by up to 47 percent.

“To balance animal nutrition and environmental stewardship, it really all comes down to the three R’s,” explains Cavadini. “Rotation, Residual, and Rest. By rotating animals and maintaining residual forage, the farm not only improves soil health but also safeguards water resources and enhances overall pasture quality.”

Just a few generations ago nearly all heifers spent part of the year on pasture. Today, many farmers choose not to implement grazing. But there’s good reason for farmers to consider going back to their roots. It’s important to understand the distinctions between managed grazing and other types of grazing management.
“The shift towards sustainable grazing aligns with increasing focus on soil and water conservation and soil health,” explains Jason Cavadini, UW-Extension Grazing Specialist. “Livestock grazing plays a crucial role in promoting soil health by fostering a complete functioning ecosystem.”
He added that getting livestock back on the land has numerous benefits, not just for soil health but also for overall land management. He has been engaging dairy farmers in discussions about incorporating grazing into their operations, which can significantly reduce heifer-raising costs by up to 47 percent.
“To balance animal nutrition and environmental stewardship, it really all comes down to the three R’s,” explains Cavadini. “Rotation, Residual, and Rest. By rotating animals and maintaining residual forage, the farm not only improves soil health but also safeguards water resources and enhances overall pasture quality.”

Join Pam Jahnke for the latest farm news. Heard daily on WOZN 96.7 FM and 1670 AM in Madison Wisconsin from 5-6am. Also heard on affiliate stations all over Wisconsin.

Join Pam Jahnke for the latest farm news. Heard daily on WOZN 96.7 FM and 1670 AM in Madison Wisconsin from 5-6am. Also heard on affiliate stations all over Wisconsin.

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