Ralphs et al. determined the impacts of increasing stocking rates on plant species composition and standing crop, under short-duration grazing management, in a Texas mixed-grass prairie. Standing crop decreased as stocking rate increased, reducing the amount of forage available to cattle. Species composition was not significantly different at the end of the five year study, however, a shift in plant composition from mid-grass to short-grass species was evident. Results of this study support the findings of previous research and refute the claims that managing pastures with short-duration grazing will enhance forage production, maintain species composition and allow increases in stocking rates.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.