The fourth Focus on Forage webinar in the 2024 series, Focus on Pastures, features research-based pasture establishment and management recommendations and resources to keep pastures productive throughout the 2024 growing season.
Presenters are Jason Cavadini, UW–Madison Divison of Extension Grazing Outreach Specialist; Steve Okonek, UW–Madison Divison of Extension Agriculture Educator (Trempleau County); Dr. Marta Kohmann, UW–Madison Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist; and Stefania Cartoni-Casamitjana, UW–Madison Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences graduate student in the Renz Lab.
Expand each section below for recordings of and resources related to each talk. To find more information about the Focus on Forage webinar series, visit the Focus on Forage website.
Improving Production Potential of Pastures
Presented by: Jason Cavadini, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Every grazing operation should aim to maximize the grazing season as much as possible because stored feeds are the greatest profit reducer in livestock production. There are many ways to maximize the grazing season, but the perennial forage base is the most economical, and should always be the starting point. Farmers who get the most out of their perennial pastures choose an appropriate stocking rate from the start, implement the three main principles (rotation, rest, residual) of managed grazing, and stockpile forages for fall grazing. This discussion will describe how these things can take pasture production to the next level.
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Extending the Grazing Season
Presented by: Steve Okonek, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Extending the grazing season by managing limited summer pastures. This topic will encompass utilizing proper grazing management to minimize the impact of hot, dry weather that occurs in Wisconsin in July and August. A discussion of summer annuals to bridge the gap in production of perennial forages will also occur.
Pasture Species Mixes for Climate Resilience
Presented by: Dr. Marta Kohmann, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Choice of species is a crucial component of successful pasture management in Wisconsin. Grass-legume mixtures are commonly used particularly in grazing systems, with benefits to forage production, nutritive value, and animal performance. However, growing multiple species also adds complexity to our management decisions. In this seminar, we will address the main aspects to consider for long-term persistent and productive pastures of the Midwest.
Establishment Success of Forages in Renovated Forests for Silvopasture
Presented by: Stefania Cartoni-Casamitjana, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Converting unmanaged woodlands that have been invaded by shrubs to silvopasture increases profitability of farms while benefiting animal health. To successfully establish forage in wooded areas, the pre-existing forest understory needs to be managed. In this trial, herbaceous vegetation was controlled with a herbicide before four different forage species mixes were planted. Establishment success of each species was compared to a control that wasn’t treated with herbicide.
