While it's difficult to accurately measure greenhouse gas production, Cohen said there has been research that points to the benefits of grazing. A study by a University of Manitoba student looked at one cow and calf grazing on five acres of native grass pasture in one calendar year. After working through a complex series of calculations, the study concluded that the cow and calf removed 1.3 times the amount of carbon from the atmosphere as they put in. He emphasized throughout the presentation that the benefits are achieved by grazing on perennial pasture rather than annual grasses. Perennials have a greater root mass than annual plants, and it is through the roots that carbon is returned to the soil.
More support is needed for research and extension work in grazing management.
Education and extension work must be directed toward encouraging correct pasture management. Programs should be put in place to encourage the return of degraded cropland to permanent pasture. The amount of land seeded to perennial forage must be increased. Producers should be encouraged to background and finish cattle on pasture and keep them out of feedlots as long as possible. Send us an e-mail.