Comparison of net pasture yield with continuous and rotational grazing at a high level of nitrogen fertilization

Abstract

A comparative trial with dairy cows revealed that there was no difference in net pasture yield between continuous and rotational grazing, when managed at a stocking rate between 3.0 and 3.4 cows ha-1 and with a N fertilization of 440 kg ha-1 yr _1. The net pasture yield was calculated from the animal production data and the yield of harvested silage grass. Under continuous grazing a mean sward height of about 10 cm was maintained. It is noted that the actual optimum mean sward height with continuous grazing is about 7 cm. Under such management the net pasture yield is increased.