A continuously grazed pasture can be just as productive and efficient as any other pasture when available forage is controlled by adjusting stock numbers or by feeding hay as needed. Therein lies the management key. When pastures are continuously grazed properly, the stocking density must be altered as forage supply changes. This can be done with a temporary electric fence to close off part of a continuously grazed pasture during periods of surplus growth. During periods of forage deficit, new pastures can be opened up, hay can be fed or some animals can be marketed.
Continuous grazing encourages grass to tiller.
This improves pasture stability and production over a long period of time. Certain plant species, such as johnsongrass, big bluestem, indiangrass and switchgrass, are not well suited for continuous grazing since they may be killed by repeated, close defoliation. But, this is difficult to do without allowing rest periods. Hay-type alfalfas should also be rotationally grazed. Tall grass is one indication of understocking.