Efficient forage management and utilization is important to the profitability of a livestock operation,” says Patrick Davis MU Extension Livestock Field Specialist. The best way to promote efficient forage management and utilization in a livestock operation is by incorporating management intensive grazing practices. To educate livestock producers on these practices MU Extension, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), MO Forage and Grasslands Council and Cedar County MO Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) are cooperating to provide a Management Intensive Grazing School on October 1st -3rd at the Stockton United Methodist Church Basement, 708 East Highway 32, Stockton, MO 65785. Classes will begin at 9 a.m. and end at approximately 5 p.m. daily.
“This school is applicable and will provide education in livestock and forage management for all grazing species, though cattle will be emphasized,” says Davis. Educational topics will include:
● The “Art and Science” of Grazing
● Soils, Soil Management and Fertility
● Plant Growth, Forage Quality and Persistence
● Fencing and Water Systems
● Matching Livestock and Forage Resources
● Meeting Nutritional Needs of Livestock from Pasture
● Layout and Design of Grazing Systems
● Economics of Management-Intensive Grazing
● Outdoor Field Exercises and Tour of Producers’ Farms
Furthermore, this program is required to receive MO SWCD cost share funding and may help in receiving NRCS cost share funding for grazing system development.
“Registration and payment are required to attend this event by September 26th,” says Davis. Register online at https://shorturl.at/fkk8k. Cost to attend the event is $200 per person and $100 per additional person from the same farm not needing materials. Fee includes materials, lunches, and refreshments during the event. For all questions related to the event contact the Cedar County MU Extension Center at (417) 276-3313 or Davis by email at [email protected].