GRAZING MANAGEMENT SCHOOL
Animal Science
Lindsey Wiggins
Extension Agent II, MS
HENDRY COUNTY EXTENSION SERVICE
LABELLE
Abstract
The South Florida Beef Forage Program \r\nBaucum, L.1, Carlisle, B.2, Crawford S.1, Davis, C.B.4, Hogue, P.4, Kirby, C.5, Prevatt, T.3, Sellers, B.6, Silveira, M.6, Vendramini, J.6, Wiggins, L.F. *1 \r\n\r\n 1. Extension Agent, University of Florida, LaBelle, Florida 33935\r\n 2. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Bartow, Florida 33831 \r\n 3. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Moore Haven, Florida 33471\r\n 4. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Okeechobee, Florida 34972\r\n 5. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Palmetto, Florida 34221 \r\n 6. Associate Professor, University of Florida, Ona, Florida 33865 \r\n\r\n In Florida, the population has grown significantly, from approximately five million to sixteen million people in the last 55 years. This three-fold increase has fueled an increase in urbanization with an associated loss of land devoted to agriculture. Extension agents and state specialists are required to deliver research based information to agriculturalists that enhance the quality of lives, and encourage profitability and sustainability. The South Florida Beef Forage Program offered the Grazing Management School to educate participants about utilizing native range, pasture establishment, soil fertility, weed control, and forage management. Participants are taught grazing management concepts and methods in a classroom setting and the presented information is supported by practical applications in the field during a tour of local ranches. Improvement of water quality via pasture management is another aspect covered extensively at the Grazing Management School; for example, management practices to maximize fertilizer benefits while preventing nutrient run-off, especially phosphorous, are presented in the classroom and field visits. Thirty-two participants attended the School; representing 6 Florida counties, Equator, the Cayman Islands, and Brazil. According to pre/post tests and follow-ups, 95% of participants have implemented new practices or exhibited a behavior change based on a 65% increase in knowledge.
Authors: Wiggins, L.
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Wiggins, L. Extension Agent II, MS, Hendry County Extension Service, Florida, 33975