Stockpiled Forage Management Guide
A guide to managing stockpiled forage, from setting aside fields in late summer to strip grazing in winter, for graziers cutting hay costs. Work through the steps in order, and keep notes on what you decide for future reference.
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GuideForages, Pasture & GrazingFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Choose fields to stockpile
- Remove livestock at the planned date
- Consider fertility per soil test
- Estimate forage available
- Plan strip grazing with portable fence
- Provide water and minerals
- Monitor forage quality and condition
- Record use and leftover forage
How to use this guide
Follow the steps in order and write down any changes you make. Where your equipment or product has instructions, those come first.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA NRCS.
For more in this area, see the Ranch Beef Cattle. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Insider Tips on Farm Management, and farming farm stories.