Efficient forage management and utilization are crucial to the profitability of a livestock operation. The optimal approach to achieve efficient forage management and utilization in a livestock operation is through the implementation of management-intensive grazing practices. To educate livestock producers on these methodologies, MU Extension, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), Missouri Forage and Grasslands Council, and Dade County Missouri Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will collaborate to host a Management Intensive Grazing School from June 16 to 18 at the Arcola Community Building, Arcola, MO 65603. Classes will commence at 9 a.m. and conclude at approximately 5 p.m. each day.  

This school is relevant and will provide education in livestock and forage management for all grazing species, with a particular emphasis on cattle. The educational topics covered 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 
• Multi-species Grazing 
• Outdoor Field Exercises and Tour of Producers’ Farms 

Additionally, participation in this program is required to receive MO SWCD cost-share funding and may assist in obtaining NRCS cost-share funding for grazing system development.  

Registration and payment are required to attend this event by June 11. Registration can be completed online or by contacting the Cedar County MU Extension Center at (417) 276-3313. 

The fee for attending the event is $200 per person, with an additional charge of $100 for each additional participant from the same farm who does not require materials. 

The fee includes materials, lunches, and refreshments throughout the event. Fees will not be refunded after registration deadline. 

For any inquiries regarding the event, please contact the Cedar County MU Extension Center at (417) 276-3313 or email Davis at davismp@missouri.edu.