soil health - Irish Dexter Cattlemen

When can my cows start grazing?

The question that starts rolling around in all our brains the moment the weather turns and we see the fresh green forage poking through the soil is, when can I start grazing my cattle? This is an important question and one that requires some observation. Turning the cows out too soon could have significant impact on the length and quality of forage growth during the entire grazing season. The hay is usually dwindling at this point and everyone is eager to start grazing. But, please pause and read this short article for advice and have a great grazing season!

https://cropsandsoils.extension.wisc.edu/articles/when-can-i-start-grazing/#:~:text=So%2C%20when%20can%20you%20start,20%20days%20of%20forage%20available.

When can my cows start grazing? Read More »

Farm Management

Farmer-led research

When you are considering trying something new it is always helpful to have the wisdom of others who have tried and failed or succeeded. We’ve done a little winter bale grazing with our Dexter herd, and the effects on the pasture are dramatic and obvious (a swath of lush green and clover through a mostly browning pasture). Here is a great farmer led study on the benefits of bale grazing that I have found compelling. Have you or would you try bale grazing?

https://practicalfarmers.org/research/bale-grazing-effects-on-soil-and-pasture-plant-communities/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR12RUqGZHHVrzgIknlKpftHaJXMNRuzAbjeQdmtnQ7LYIbs4_DRrmEA8dY_aem_nwVxF1iDSxHNk7PRtA41fA