By Andi Anderson
Winter feeding is an annual challenge for many beef cattle producers, especially in regions that experience wet winter conditions and prolonged periods of muddy ground. Repeated feeding in the same areas can lead to soil damage, nutrient buildup, and reduced pasture productivity. Agricultural experts are encouraging farmers to consider more strategic winter feeding practices that can improve soil health and make better use of valuable nutrients.
According to Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler, PhD, PAS, Extension Professor, University of Kentucky, many beef operations traditionally feed cattle in the same locations each winter. These areas are often called sacrifice lots because they are used repeatedly to protect other pasture areas from damage. However, constant use of these feeding sites can create significant nutrient imbalances and soil structure problems over time.
Recent research led by Dr. Greg Halich and a team of collaborators has examined bale grazing as an alternative winter-feeding strategy. The project involves researchers and farms from Kentucky, New York, West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina and is supported by a Natural Resources Conservation Service Conservation Innovation Grant. The study focuses on understanding how bale grazing affects soil fertility and forage production.
Researchers evaluated winter-feeding sites at three University of Kentucky research stations where feeding had occurred in the same locations for many years. Under the guidance of Dr. Alan Franzluebbers, USDA Soil Ecologist, more than 100 soil samples were collected at each site using a detailed grid sampling approach. The study examined areas located within 87 yards of feeding stations and compared them with the remainder of the pasture.
The findings showed a significant concentration of nutrients near feeding areas. Soil nitrogen levels were found to be 10% to 40% higher in zones closest to feeding sites compared to the rest of the pasture. Even larger differences were observed for phosphorus and potassium, with the highest nutrient levels occurring in heavily used feeding areas.
These results highlight the importance of improving the spatial distribution of cattle during winter feeding. When animals remain concentrated in one location, manure nutrients accumulate in small areas rather than being spread evenly across the pasture. This can create fertility imbalances and reduce the efficient use of nutrients.
At the same time, rising fertilizer costs have encouraged producers to seek management practices that maximize nutrient efficiency. Strategic grazing systems and bale grazing methods can help distribute manure nutrients more uniformly across fields. Placing hay bales in areas with lower soil fertility can naturally move nutrients to locations where they are needed most.
Researchers believe bale grazing can serve as a valuable tool for improving pasture productivity while reducing dependence on purchased fertilizer inputs. Better nutrient distribution may also contribute to stronger forage growth and healthier pasture conditions in future seasons.
The research team will continue working with producers during the upcoming winter through demonstration farms that showcase bale grazing practices. Field days and educational programs are expected to provide producers with opportunities to learn more about this management approach and observe results firsthand.
Experts encourage beef producers to begin planning their winter feeding strategies well before the season starts. By carefully selecting feeding locations and considering bale grazing, farmers can improve nutrient utilization, support soil health, and enhance the long-term productivity of their pastures. Strategic winter feeding decisions made today can deliver both environmental and economic benefits for beef operations in the years ahead.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline-nix
Categories: Ohio, Livestock