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STOCKTON, Mo. – “Efficient forage and livestock management are essential to a successful livestock grazing operation,” says Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist. Because grazing pastures can be more cost-effective than grain-based supplements for meeting nutritional needs, a well-managed grazing system can help lower feed costs and promote optimum profitability.
MU Extension, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Missouri State University will host a Management Intensive Grazing School, Sept. 8-10. The first two days will be held at the MU Extension Center in Hickory County, 22126 U.S. Highway 54, Hermitage. The final day will be at Missouri State University’s Shealy Farm, 5607 S. 222nd Road, Fair Grove. Classes run 9 a.m. to about 5 p.m. each day.
“The school will cover livestock and forage management for all grazing species, with special focus on cattle and sheep,” Davis says.
Topics include:
- The "Art and Science" of grazing
- Soils, soil management and fertility
- Evaluating farm resources
- Grazing arithmetic
- Plant growth, forage quality and persistence
- Fence and water systems
- Matching livestock and forage resources
- Livestock nutrition on pasture
- Layout and design of grazing systems
- Economics of management-intensive grazing
- Extending the grazing season
- Brush and weed control
“Outdoor field exercises and grazing system tours provide hands-on learning during the school,” says Davis. These activities reinforce classroom instruction and give participants insight from producers who use these tools successfully in their own operations. Participants will tour a sheep and cattle operation, evaluate pasture quality and quantity, and apply classroom knowledge during a pasture allocation activity. The tours also help participants connect what they learn in class to the real-world grazing management discussions, he says.
“Registration and payment are due by Aug. 28 to attend,” says Davis. To register, contact the Hickory County MU Extension Center at 417-745-6767 and mail payment to 22126 US Highway 54, Hermitage, MO 65668. The cost is $225 per person, plus $125 for each additional participant from the same farm who does not need materials. The fee includes materials, lunches, and refreshments throughout the event. No refunds will be issued after the registration deadline.
For questions or special ADA accommodations, contact Davis at 417-276-3313 or davismp@missouri.edu.