Southern Oregon farmers practice sustainable grazing


Livestock ranchers in Coos and Curry counties cultivate grass by using sustainable grazing methods.

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Livestock ranchers in Coos and Curry counties cultivate grass by using sustainable grazing methods.

Besides helping the environment, sustainable grazing saves costs on feed and fertilizer.

“Continually improving on our forage management is important because we can grow grass,” said Amy Peters, livestock agent with the Oregon State University Extension Service.

“In a continuous grazing system, you’re depleting not only the top growth, but the roots,” she said. Whether the pasture supports sheep, beef cattle or dairy cows, the goal is to maintain high quality feed that matches the animal’s nutrient demands throughout the year. Letting the pasture rest encourages root growth. Healthy roots produce more leaf mass, which feeds more livestock.

Read more at The Bandon Western World.

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