Swath Grazing Checklist
A checklist for swath grazing, where forage is cut and left in windrows for livestock, helping producers prepare and monitor the field.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
ChecklistForages, Pasture & GrazingFree PDF
What is on this checklist
- Select the forage crop and field
- Cut and leave swaths per plan
- Plan access with portable fence
- Set up water supply
- Check forage quality by test
- Watch snow and ice conditions
- Monitor animal condition
- Record use and leftover forage
How to use this checklist
Fill in the farm, date and your name, then walk the job with the sheet in hand. A habit of five minutes on this list tends to catch small problems early.
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 cow-calf and ranch know-how. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including RANCH Act Grazing Land: Cattle Want a Golf Course, and farming farm stories.