Grazing smarter: science-based grazing strategies, not only stocking rate, determine rangeland outcomes

Abstract

Research indicates a ‘crisis’ in the search for optimal grazing strategies with experimental results suggesting that stocking rate is the primary factor influencing rangeland condition and cattle performance. However, we contend that this is a spurious conclusion, inevitably conceived by comparing conceptually flawed rotational stocking systems (RSs) with continuous stocking systems (CSs). Our studies in southern Africa demonstrate that grazing management strongly determines rangeland outcomes when the conceptual basis underlying the design of these strategies is robust. We recognise four key principles essential for effective grazing management: (1) nonselective grazing is sacrosanct, facilitated by spring fire and high-density grazing, (2) in intermediate and especially high-rainfall grasslands, facilitation of short, high-quality forage in focal grazing areas is essential for improved animal performance and nonselective grazing, (3) an uninterrupted growing season and early dormant season rest for optimal recovery of perennial grasses; and (4) flexible and adaptive livestock movement to deal with rainfall variability, facilitated by moving livestock between short focal grazed and taller reserve grazing paddocks. We show that implementing these principles improve both rangeland condition and animal performance. These findings show that merely maintaining correct stocking rates is insufficient for achieving optimal outcomes for productive and sustainable livestock production.