Below is a dynamic catalogue of ecological knowledge shared by people working on pastures and grasslands. The current examples and those in development are drawn from regions with oceanic, warm Mediterranean, and continental climates; and most likely gradients between these, such as in western Washington where a prevailing warm Mediterranean climate grades with oceanic depending on location. The focus here is on ecological pasture and forage management, herders and grass-based livestock producers, and also grassland habitat niches. Plant and animal wildlife is included. The goal is to raise interesting questions, and share applicable knowledge about ecologically-grounded grazing among herders, ranchers, graziers, researchers and others. More examples are currently being developed and will be posted here.
Conservation Outcomes as a Paradigm Shift in Grazing Systems
Grassland management is undergoing a broad transition, as much in Europe as elsewhere. In North America this has been described as a transition from “utilitarian” focus on forage and livestock production to an “ecosystem management” approach. Click on the image link to read on.
Sward diversification to support transition to low-input pastures systems
When a grazing system transitions conventional fertilizers are not available. The site discussed here in northern England is under organic transition, and the farmer is variously trialing field mixes and practices to enhance AM fungi in their grazing system. Click on the image link to read on.
Breed selection to influence livestock foraging behavior
A local herder uses the local Hungarian grey cattle to utilize reeds that are difficult for many animals to graze on. His experience is that the native breed, compared to Simental, exhibit improved forage use, and can better digest the feed (convert it to energy). Click on the image link to read on.