LCNRD presents unique opportunity to see annual, perennial grazing systems

HARTINGTON — The Bow Creek Watershed Project will be hosting a workshop that will present the principles and benefits of perennial grassland and annual forage crop grazing systems from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Sept. 22, at the Hartington Golf Course, Ralph Tate, HMI Certified Educator, will lead a discussion on grazing management systems in the morning.

After lunch, attendees will see annual mixed forages planted on both irrigated and dryland crop ground. This is the second year of the mixed forage planting on the farm and the system has provided good forage for cattle, while allowing grasslands to be rested for improved forage diversity and production.

The workshop will conclude at a long-term perennial grassland grazing system that started using principles of rotational grazing in the 1980s. Permanent and temporary fencing along with movable water systems have made this system profitable and enjoyable.

Having the annual cropland grazing and long-term perennial grazing system in close proximity to each other makes this a unique opportunity to see how these systems improve soil, plant, animal and farm financial health.

The workshop will also cover information related to USDA cost-share programs. The Environmental Quality Incentive Program provides producers with cost-share opportunities to install conservations practices that will improve grazing systems. Through this program, USDA will also assist individual landowners with developing a grazing plan that balances livestock needs with available forage. The Bow Creek Watershed Project has funds available to further incentivize grazing conservation practices.

Local producers and ag professionals may attend at no cost, with others paying only $20 for lunch, included with RSVP. To RSVP, email Becky Ravenkamp at bravenkamp@lcnrd.org or call the Lewis & Clark NRD office at 402-254-6758.