It also can reduce aeration, thus increasing the potential for denitrification. Because livestock on muddy pasture slopes can produce areas of bare soil, which slows grass sod recovery and generally adds to the potential for later soil erosion, the sacrifice area should be on a relatively level site, be suitable for reseeding, and be accessible for supplemental feeding if necessary. This research project is designed to measure and evaluate the effect of grazing corn residue or stockpiled forage on soil quality, infiltration rates, and sediment loss, and whether simple site measurements can be used to predict potential runoff and the impact on subsequent crop productivity. Winter grazing of stockpiled forage and crop residue can save producers money and add to the efficiency of their operation. However, it requires careful management to maintain the health of the livestock and to protect the soil.
Crop residue is a very cost-effective alternative to hay.
But, neither crop residue nor stockpiled forage is sufficient as a stand-alone ration. Supplemental feeding is needed to meet the nutritional needs of livestock. Stockpiled forage is forage that is allowed to grow and accumulate for use at a later time. Nearly any grass or legume species can be stockpiled, but tall fescue is used most often for its fall growth and persistence under grazing. Although the palatability of tall fescue is relatively low during the grazing season compared with other grasses, it maintains its quality when exposed to adverse autumn and winter weather.