Long-term production and profitability of grazing on northern mixed-grass prairie using yearling steers on rangelands of three land condition classes (low-far, good and excellent), and actual stocking rate to maintain those classes were calculated using 34 years of data from the South Dakota State University Livestock Research Station, near Cottonwood, SD, about 120 km east of Rapid City (43° 94’ N; 101° 85’ W). Six pastures were rested from grazing in 1968 and fenced for three experimental treatments: pasture units of low-fair, good and excellent range condition with two replicates per treatment. Pastures were variably stocked with yearling steers from 1969-2002. Plant community was annually monitored for adjustment as necessary to maintain original range condition classes. Cattle weights were measured end of season and average daily gains calculated. Annual gross expenses and income (from fall cattle prices) were calculated to determine profit per hectare. Several variables were taken into consideration for calculations.
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