Effects of time-controlled and continuous grazing on total herbage mass and ground cover

Farm Table says:

Study showed that time controlled grazing can increase total herbage mass and ground cover when compared to continuous grazing at similar stocking levels

What is the problem?

Time-controlled grazing has been put forward as an alternative to continuous grazing, which has been documented to reduce pasture productivity and decline soil surface. However, little research had been performed on how time controlled grazing affected ground organic matter and land surface protection.

What did the research involve?

Sub-tropical region of Australia – commercial property in southeast Queensland
2001-2006
44 permanent sampling location sites
Herd of merinos with different sizes in different grazing events (1,750 – 4577 DSE) moved between 21 paddocks
In time-controlled grazing, paddock grazed with an average of 12.3DSE/ha over 14 days (mean) and rested.
In continuous grazing, pasture stocked with constant ~1.6DSE/ha.

What were the key findings?

Herbage mass under time controlled grazing increased to 140% in 2006 (compared to 2001). Outcomes higher where soil deeper and slope gentler
Ground cover under time controlled grazing significantly higher percentages in all years of the study
Ground cover increased from 54% to 89%

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Grazing, Fodder & Pastures

Last Edited:

31/03/2025

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Articles

Bradley Dawson

Bradley is a seasoned copywriter at Farm Table, bringing decades of experience in journalism and content creation. Formerly a producer and journalist for the Telstra Sports website, he has honed his skills in crafting engaging and informative content. Now, he applies his expertise to the Australian agriculture sector, delivering high-quality writing that informs and supports the Australian farming community.

bradley@farmtable.com.au