Stock Conservatively When First Grazing Former CRP Ground

Manhattan, Kansas (April 30, 2009)--Grazing livestock on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) ground coming out of contract is an option that producers and landowners may want to consider, said Walt Fick, K-State Research and Extension range and pasture management specialist. This option may require some special considerations initially, however.

“Most CRP stands coming off contract are initially not in condition for full grazing pressure. A management strategy covering two to four years may be necessary to condition the plants to use,” Fick said. “Use a light stocking rate to allow good plant growth the first year. Adjust stocking rates in subsequent years based on stand development.”

After years of non-use the plants are in a state of low vigor and may have a limited root system, he explained. Loss of topsoil from previous cropping and large spacing between grass plants is common, often resulting in low total forage production.

Getting CRP ready to graze will probably require fencing and water development, he added.

“Fence off CRP that is adjacent to native rangeland. Experience has shown that animals will not utilize seeded grass as well as native sod when given a choice. Producers can partially overcome this problem by using grazing distribution tools such as water development, placement of salt and mineral, and burning,” Fick said. “Care should be taken in determining where to place water developments. If feasible, water developments should be positioned in a way that will encourage uniform grazing of the land.”

As with haying, if the land has not been burned for a few years, it would be a good idea to conduct a prescribed burn, he added.

“Burning will not only get rid of old dead material, but should increase tillering and help the grass stand continue to develop. Frequent burning is not recommended in western Kansas, however,” he said.

More information is available by contacting Fick at 785-532-7223 or whfick@ksu.edu.