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4. Soil Management Considerations
Things to consider when choosing/designing a grazing system
1.
What are my production goals?
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Maximize profits
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Reduce feed inputs
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Reduce erosion
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Improve soil health
2.
How much land is available for grazing?
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Are there lease lands available?
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Can I graze an annual crop such as winter wheat?
3.
How productive are my lands?
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Are my lands producing to their full potential?
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What soil types do I have?
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What kinds of forages does my land produce?
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Are the forages productive/nutritious?
4.
How much forage will my herd consume in a day and in a year?
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If you plan to graze more than the land can sustain, you should further calculate how
much additional feed you will need to provide
5.
What are the existing water and fencing structures?
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How much more fencing and water will I need to be successful?
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Is it possible to employ herders to move the animals?