By Andi Anderson
The East Central Grazing Alliance recently gathered at The Johnson Family Farm in Noble County for a pasture walk that focused on practical grazing management strategies. Farmers and livestock producers discussed bale grazing, forage management, soil testing, hay quality, and the growing challenge of johnsongrass in local pastures.
A major topic of discussion was bale grazing during winter months. Participants explored how to determine whether bale grazing is a practical and labor-saving option for livestock operations. Conversations also covered hay placement, soil and forage testing, fertilizer management, manure use, and evaluating the nutritional and economic value of hay. Understanding these factors can help producers make more efficient and cost-effective feeding decisions.
During the event, attention also turned to the spread of johnsongrass, a weed that has become increasingly common due to excessive rainfall and flooding. Moving water has carried weed seeds across fields, waterways, and drainage areas, resulting in greater johnsongrass pressure in many locations.
Johnsongrass is a warm-season perennial grass related to corn, sorghum, and sorghum-sudangrass. Unlike these commonly cultivated crops, johnsongrass has become established in the environment and is classified as a noxious weed in Ohio. Although it can provide some forage value for livestock, it is considered invasive and can negatively affect native plants and agricultural production systems.
Controlling johnsongrass can be difficult, especially in grass-based pastures where herbicide options are limited. However, the weed has one important weakness: it does not tolerate frequent grazing or mowing.
Repeated defoliation can reduce seed production and gradually weaken the plant's root system over time. This approach can help pasture managers limit infestations while making use of the forage produced.
Livestock managers should also be aware of potential risks associated with grazing johnsongrass. Horses should not graze areas containing johnsongrass because of the risk of equine cystitis. Additionally, the plant can become dangerous when exposed to environmental stress such as drought, frost, or excessive nitrogen fertilization. Under these conditions, harmful nitrate and prussic acid levels may develop, posing serious health risks to livestock.
When johnsongrass is identified, early action is essential. Producers should develop a management plan that may include spot spraying, repeated mowing, grazing pressure, or approved herbicide applications. Monitoring fields regularly and responding quickly to new infestations can help prevent widespread establishment and protect pasture productivity.
By combining effective weed control practices with careful grazing management, producers can reduce johnsongrass pressure, safeguard livestock health, and maintain productive pasture systems for the future.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline-nix
Categories: Ohio, Livestock