McCollum et al. measured vegetation composition on pastures managed with season long grazing (April-September) or intensive-early stocking (April-July) to determine which grazing system was more beneficial in Oklahoma pastures. Intensive early stocking management decreased standing crop in mid-season but did not effect end of season standing crop. Composition of pastures varied slightly by grazing system. Pastures managed with season long grazing tended to decrease tallgrasses that were preferred in the late grazing season, whereas intensive early season grazing reduced the composition of tallgrass and forb species in mid-season but did not effect end-of season composition. These results and livestock production data suggest that intensive-early stocking may be economically and vegetatively beneficial on Oklahoma pastures when compared to season long grazing management.
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.