Profitable Pastures

A guide to grass, grazing, and good management

A Commitment to Grassland

Pasture covers nearly 10 percent of Iowa’s land, and provides forage that helps produce beef, milk, wool and leather. The impact of pastureland and livestock that graze those pastures is significant to Iowa’s economy and to the livelihood of those who manage the land.

Many producers are interested in taking care of the pasture resources, but admit the bottom line is economics. Many say “the bottom line is—if it makes me money, I’ll do it.”

Good pasture management is key to higher profits. Producers across Iowa who have implemented some or all of the pasture management practices in this book have improved their bottom line.

Pastures are also good for the environment. They help reduce erosion, improve water quality and provide food and habitat for wildlife. In 1997 erosion on pastures was 1.1 tons/acre/year, compared to cropland erosion of 4.7 tons/acre/year.

The goal of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the cooperators of this publication is to improve the grassland resource while benefiting those who manage the land.

This booklet will show you options for pasture management, including different grazing systems. It will provide you with information to care for, and to get the most out of your pastures and grasslands.

Pasture management is more than just moving livestock from one pasture to another, it involves choosing and managing forages, soil fertility, fencing, water development and distribution, harvesting, resting pastures and much more. This booklet discusses each of these subjects, and takes you through a step by step process to develop a grazing plan that works for you.

Pasture management is a process that can be completed in steps. As time and labor allow, you can add to your current system and make improvements.

There may be financial assistance available to help you improve and manage your pastures. The 2002 Farm Bill designated funds for livestock production as part of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). State funds are also available in some counties for pasture improvement through the local Soil and Water Conservation District. Check with your local conservation office to see if funds are available and if you are eligible.

NRCS will be here to help you along the road to improved pasture management. Iowa NRCS currently has three grassland conservationists who work with landowners across the state to improve this particular natural resource. Soil conservationists in local NRCS field offices can also provide assistance. NRCS can help design or adapt your pasture management system to meet your production and resource goals.

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