Tall and mid grasses once dominated such areas. Later, yearlings were summered there prior to feedlot feeding in the Midwest. In recent years, cow-calf operations have replaced many of the transient steer operations. At present about half of the area is used for cow-calf, and half for steer grazing. Many cattle are grazed year-round on bluestem pastures with protein supplement supplied during winter months.
Energy is supplied for pregnant cows during later winter, usually as sorghum grain.
Stocking rates vary with pasture condition and individual variability. Controlled spring burning to the Flint Hills and Osage Hills is an integral part of management for increased livestock performance and maintenance of a high quality stand of range plants. When woody species amounts become excessive, herbicides are commonly used as an initial control with prescribed burning as the following treatment.