University of Idaho Project Studies Concept of Early Grazing

The University of Idaho reports researchers have undertaken an early grazing study.

  The study will examine the effects of early grazing on riparian fields

Riparian fields are those that are adjacent to more wooded or forested areas or alongside or near streams, rivers, or bodies of water.

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The study, according to news from the University of Idaho, will examine some potential positive effects of what's called early grazing:

"University of Idaho researchers are studying if grazing riparian meadows earlier in the season than normal could provide ranchers with extra forage while also sequestering more soil carbon and bolstering vegetation regrowth.

Ranchers typically wait until the ground is firm and plants reach a minimum height, known as range readiness, before turning cattle loose within meadows to avoid compacting the soil and trampling the grasses, shrubs and forbs."

Early work has shown this practice could result in better soil condition and long-term plant health. This is the first year of a multi-year planned study. It was requested by some ranchers, who are looking for ways to shorten the time frame needed to supply hay to their livestock.