Complementary Grazing Systems for the Northern Great Plains

Grazing systems for the Northern Great Plains based on the exclusive use of natural grassland are no better than continuous grazing. Since the quality of the majority of the ecosystems within the region makes seeded grass pastures feasible, seeded pastures containing highly adapted cultivars such as crested wheatgrass, Russian wildrye and alfalfa can be used in various grazing systems to balance and extend the grazing season. The growth habits and nutrient characteristics of the herbage of the native grasses are of maximum value for a relatively short period during the year. Grazing systems detailed include one in which the requirement per animal unit is reduced from 24.8 to 11.4 acres.