In Iceland, beaked sedge is excellent forage for cattle, which will wade deep into the water to reach it. A study was conducted on beaked sedge from June to October for 4 years. The overall calcium-phosphorous ratio was good. Carotene was highest in July. Beaked sedge sod rapidly recolonizes disturbed sites by rhizome expansion.
Beaked sedge can withstand moderate grazing.
On wet soils, hikers and packstock often create multiple or parallel trails, resulting in severe rut formation. To prevent this, roads should be maintained, and off-road travel should be discouraged. Sedges respond satisfactorally to traditional grazing systems designed for upland species. In areas adjacent to streams, residual cover filters sediments from fall rains and spring runoff. Beaked sedge is tolerant of extreme water level fluctuation in reservoirs used for hydroelectric power, although shoot size is affected.