Remember the cross-country trip I took late this past summer? It was 2,600 miles filled with fun and new experiences. More importantly, it was a great experience to learn more about diversity in forage management from producers across the country. No matter the environment in, no one style of management fits every farm or ranch. … Continue reading Diversity in Forage Management
Armyworms Impact Southern Pastures
This month you begin seeing ranchers scouting the fields (rather what's left of them), or even on their knees with hands in the grass. Other than praying for rain, we're looking for an army of caterpillars. These are not your average young butterfly, but rather, as a group, these worms can wipe out pastures in … Continue reading Armyworms Impact Southern Pastures
Benefits of Mowing Livestock Pastures | Part 2
Why do livestock producers mow pastures? As a follow-up to yesterday's post, we'll explore how mowing livestock pastures from a forage management perspective can be beneficial. Benefits of Mowing Livestock Pastures The following is a guest contribution from Jesse Bussard, a graduate student at the University of Kentucky I was posed the question, “Why do … Continue reading Benefits of Mowing Livestock Pastures | Part 2
Why Am I Mowing Pastures: Part 1
As I'm bumping, bouncing, and thumping across the rough pastures lately one question comes to mind. Why am I mowing pastures?!? Why are we brush hogging pastures, clipping the grass and weeds, when we have cows that can do the very same thing? There are many, many answers to these questions. Don't forget to read … Continue reading Why Am I Mowing Pastures: Part 1
Prepare Now For Fall And Winter Forages
Here's a short write up I contributed to the local Conservation District newsletter this month. It's just a brief overview of forage management in Arkansas but thought I would share anyways. Maybe it will give you an idea of production methods in our region. Post any questions you have in the comments and I'll try to answer … Continue reading Prepare Now For Fall And Winter Forages