Efficient beef production from grazed pasture.

Abstract

Documented data comparing both cutting and grazing grass growth rates in Ireland are minimal. Most protocols for measuring grass growth involve a cutting regime of either 3 or 4-week cycles. The effect of the grazing animal is absent in most situations. However, herbage production can readily be affected by the rate of fertiliser nitrogen used and the frequency of grazing/cutting management 6 practices employed. The first two experiments reported here were undertaken to assess grass growth under grazing and cutting regimes and to determine the extent of differences which may arise from different harvesting procotols. The third experiment investigated the effect of nitrogen application rate and regrowth interval on annual herbage production. Early grazing: The experiments reported here were conducted to examine the effects of early turnout to grass on beef cattle production and on sward productivity. Autumn pasture production: The present series of experiments investigated the effects of autumn closing dates on herbage yield and quality as well as their effects on sward productivity. The effects of short and long grazing rest intervals were evaluated in the context of autumn grass growth and their effects on subsequent spring growth.