The last 6 months we have been implementing 2 x Day herd moves. It's a little more work, so have we seen any benefits?!
Are 2 x Day Herd Moves Worth It!?
Grazing Management on the Farm
Why Grazing Livestock on Grasslands is Important
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Grazing livestock on grasslands is not just an ancient practice that humans have been implementing for thousands of years ; it’s a sustainable practice that offers numerous benefits. By grazing livestock, graziers can:
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Enhance Soil Health: Grazing helps in maintaining soil structure and fertility, reducing erosion, and promoting nutrient cycling. For example, rotational grazing allows pastures to rest and recover, leading to healthier soil and more robust plant growth.
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Support Biodiversity: Proper grazing management can create habitats for various plant and animal species, fostering a rich and diverse ecosystem. For instance, grazing can help maintain open grasslands that are crucial for ground-nesting birds.
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Improve Water Quality: Well-managed grazing reduces runoff and improves water infiltration, which helps in maintaining clean water sources.
Ecological and Economic Benefits
Grazing livestock can significantly benefit both the environment and the local economy:
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Ecological Benefits: Grazing can help in controlling invasive species, promoting native vegetation, and enhancing wildlife habitats. The herd effect, where livestock movement mimics natural grazing patterns, can lead to healthier and more resilient ecosystems. For example, targeted grazing can be used to manage brush and reduce wildfire risks.
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Economic Benefits: Grazing reduces feed costs and makes use of marginal lands that are unsuitable for crop production. With good grazing management, graziers can increase the amount of animals per acre and therefore decrease labor needs, which equates to more profit.
Success Stories
ECC has been in adaptive grazing for over 15 years. Our innovative approach has led to numerous successes, demonstrating the potential of this grazing modality to improve both land health and farm productivity. For example, we have seen a significant increase in forage production and grazing days this year by having moved to 2xDay herd moves. This is helping increase herd impact which increases soil organic matter on the farm, which has translated into higher livestock weights, more head per acre and better overall farm resilience.