In recent times there has been a global shift back to pasture-based dairy farming led largely by the “clean green” push. Although philosophically this may be the correct move by the dairy industry, care must be exercised that it is achieved in a thoughtful, controlled way in order for the appropriate management to be employed and sensible decisions made. The danger is in embracing radical changes without thoughtful and balanced evaluation of the potential consequences. Many times we see well-meaning farmers get into trouble changing too quickly with too little homework.
The decision to use pasture as a major source of nutrients for milking cows must be accompanied by a strong commitment to properly manage the pasture. Determining soil fertility status, choosing a fertilization program, selecting appropriate forage species, and controlling grazing are important elements of a pasture management program.
Foot rot is a subacute or acute necrotic (decaying) infectious disease of cattle, causing swelling and lameness in one or more feet. The disease can become chronic, with a poorer prognosis for recovery if treatment is delayed, which results in deeper structures of the toe becoming affected.
Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is the most economically important cool season forage grass grown in the United States and is the predominant forage in the southeastern part of the country (Figure 1). It is desirable because of its ease of establishment, tolerance to close grazing, ability to stand up to heavy animal traffic, survival during drought conditions, and resistance to insects, diseases and competition by weeds (Stuedemann and Hoveland, 1988). In addition, tall fescue can grow in a wide range of conditions and can be used to extend the grazing season in many areas.
Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is the most economically important cool season forage grass grown in the United States and is the predominant forage in the southeastern part of the country (Figure 1). It is desirable because of its ease of establishment, tolerance to close grazing, ability to stand up to heavy animal traffic, survival during drought conditions, and resistance to insects, diseases and competition by weeds (Stuedemann and Hoveland, 1988). In addition, tall fescue can grow in a wide range of conditions and can be used to extend the grazing season in many areas.
