By Andi Anderson
As summer progresses, many pastures can become overgrown, making it tempting to cut hay or mow. However, producers should consider the long-term impact of removing forage before reaching for the mower.
Every bale harvested removes valuable nutrients, organic matter, and moisture from the field. Unlike grazing, which recycles much of these nutrients back to the soil through manure and urine, hay production continually exports fertility from the pasture. Over time, this can weaken forage stands and increase fertilizer requirements.
Mowing also reduces ground cover during the hottest part of the year. While a freshly cut pasture may look neat, it can leave soil exposed to heat and moisture loss. Bushhogging may also remove healthy forage and leaf area needed for plant regrowth, limiting future productivity.
Seedheads are often blamed for declining pasture quality, but they are only one part of the equation. Factors such as fly pressure, dust, stress, and overall animal health can have just as much influence on livestock performance.
In many cases, excess forage can be managed through strategic grazing. Proper grazing allows livestock to harvest forage, recycle nutrients, and leave residue that protects the soil and supports future growth. Short grazing periods and adequate recovery time can help turn surplus forage into both animal gain and improved soil health.
While hay production is sometimes necessary, especially when winter feed supplies are limited, grazable acres often provide greater long-term value when forage remains in the pasture system. Rather than focusing on creating a cleaner-looking field, producers should aim to maintain pasture productivity, soil health, and resilience throughout the entire grazing season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline
Categories: Ohio, Livestock