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As fall moves toward winter, many producers across Nebraska are looking at how to stretch feed resources while keeping costs in check. Whether it’s winter pasture, crop residue, or stockpiled annuals, one of the most effective ways to extend grazing days and improve animal performance is through strip grazing.
Strip grazing simply means allocating a small portion of the field or pasture to livestock using temporary electric fencing. Once the forage in that area is grazed down, the fence is moved forward to provide access to the next strip. It’s a simple concept, but the benefits can be significant.
Research and producer experience show that strip grazing can increase harvest efficiency by 30% or more compared to unrestricted access. When cows have access to the whole field, they tend to trample and waste more feed—especially when conditions are wet or snow-covered. By controlling access, waste is reduced and feed use is improved.
Strip grazing also helps manage forage quality. For crop residues or stockpiled annuals, it encourages animals to graze more uniformly across the field. While diet quality may start slightly lower, the average quality is maintained longer compared to open access, where cows quickly consume the best feed and are left with the poorest at the end.
One consideration with residue grazing is potential feed loss over time. Leaf and husk make up the bulk of the diet, and UNL research shows these portions are often the first to blow away during windy Nebraska weather. Stretching the grazing period increases the risk that cattle may miss out on those higher-quality components. This December, Nebraska Extension will host a webinar on grazing standing milo, with in-person viewing locations across the state. The session will highlight work from Missouri on strip grazing milo and cover topics such as electric fence setup, estimating feed availability, and balancing rations for cows grazing these forages. Contact your local Extension office for details.
Strip grazing doesn’t have to be complicated. A single-wire poly fence and portable posts are often enough. Even moving the fence every few days can noticeably extend grazing. Moves can be flexible—set up a week’s worth of feed during busy times, then switch to more frequent shifts when labor allows. Always plan fencing with your water source in mind.
As feed costs continue to climb, getting the most out of what’s already in the field—whether winter pasture, crop residue, or stockpiled annuals—can pay big dividends. Strip grazing remains one of the simplest and most effective tools to add to your winter feeding strategy.
-Ben Beckman is a beef systems Extension Educator serving northeast Nebraska. He is based out of the Cedar County Extension office in Hartington. You can reach him by phone: (402) 234-6821 or email: ben.beckman@unl. edu
