As winter approaches and daylight fades, it’s time to think about how to feed our livestock. But instead of focusing on the mud we all expect, let’s discuss ways to enhance soil health during these chilly months.
Our pastures shouldn’t just survive; they should thrive. Smart winter feeding can boost both animal health and soil quality, giving pastures a head start for spring. Studies, like one from Beef Magazine, show that muddy conditions can severely impact livestock gains. Cattle in mud 4-8 inches deep lose 14% of their weight gain, and those in deeper mud (8-24 inches) suffer a 25% loss. Winter feeding can lead to soil erosion and nutrient runoff, harming not just pastures but nearby water sources too.
When cattle trample over soft soil, they can damage already stressed vegetation, especially after two tough summers. So, what can we do to improve soil health this winter? One strategy is to graze stockpiled tall fescue pastures late in the season. Fescue holds its nutritional value well, delaying the need for early hay feeding.
Another effective method is strip grazing. This extends grazing time and minimizes waste while evenly distributing manure. As manure breaks down over the winter, it enriches the soil with nutrients that foster growth.
If using feeders, consider unrolling hay bales across pastures. This practice allows livestock to graze and naturally distribute manure, promoting organic matter in the soil. While there might be some hay waste, the breakdown adds valuable nutrients and helps with soil structure and moisture retention. Additionally, seeds from the hay can reseed pastures.
In situations where it’s impractical to unroll bales, using hay rings can help. These feeders minimize waste and should be placed in well-drained areas. Rotating feeding locations reduces soil compaction and mud issues. If dry spots aren’t available, heavy-use pads made of stone or concrete can serve as alternatives, with collected manure easily spread later on.
A sacrifice lot can also be useful. By keeping livestock off certain areas, we can prevent overgrazing and trampled soil while allowing ground cover to recover. This approach allows for stronger root growth, resulting in healthier pastures come spring. A good sacrifice area is flat, easy to access for feeding, and can be reseeded to repair winter damage.
Every farm has its unique challenges, so winter feeding plans should be adaptable. Creating a strategy not only makes winter easier but also sets up livestock and pastures for a successful spring.
Interested in more insights on livestock management? Check out resources from the Natural Resources Conservation Service for sustainable practices and support.
