Intensive grazing systems seek to control both the frequency and intensity of defoliation to achieve specific plant animal production objectives. Many ranchers have been forced to greatly reduce or liquidate their herds, plus the range has been used excessively, and many have lost considerable amounts of money. The use of planned grazing is certainly not going to solve all problems. Once we are into a drought though, fewer options exist. Healthy vigorous perennial grasses with a good root system can maintain some production longer into a drought and recover more quickly once rain occurs.
Light rains are more effective if some litter and stubble remain.
There will be a few preferred plants used by cattle that serve as an indicator of use and health of a range for determining when management adjustments are needed such as stocking rate or deferment. Realize that drought is inevitable, a drought plan should be developed. Flexibility in forage use, livestock numbers, livestock classes, marketing strategies and others will allow greater management decisions. If moisture becomes available within the first two or three weeks after time for plant growth to start, near-normal production may be expected. However, if available moisture is delayed until near or after the mid-point of the growing season, forage production will be greatly reduced, regardless of the condition of the range.