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EVALUATING THE IMPACTS OF GRAZING MANAGEMENT CLINICS IN ALABAMA

Animal Science

Kent Stanford
Associate Extension Professor/Extension Specialist
Alabama Extension
Crossville

Abstract

Stanford, M.K.*1; Johnson, J.M.2; Mitchell, C.C.3; Prevatt, J.W.4\r\n\r\n1.Extension Specialist – Nutrient Management, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Crossville, AL 35962\r\n2.Extension Forage Specialist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University, AL 36849\r\n3.Extension Soils Specialist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University, AL 36849\r\n4.Extension Specialist – Ag Economics, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University, AL 36849\r\n\r\n Forages account for roughly four million acres across the state of Alabama. Grasslands are second only to forest land and serve a critical role in ecosystems throughout the state. Proper management of these grasslands is vital for healthy, productive soils, clean waterways and profitable farms. The Alabama Grazing Management Clinic was developed as a project of the Alabama Forage & Grassland Coalition to teach proper grazing management techniques in a one-day format. Instructors include both Extension and Natural Resource Conservation Service personnel. Topics include: physiology of forages, minimizing hay, economics, grazing systems, fence/water technology, and forage allocation. A total of 28 clinics, averaging 25 in attendance, have been held to date. Evaluations have documented the impact of the clinics and easily justify a $75 registration fee. Over the last two years, responses show that 19,635 acres are being managed more intensively with a return per acre for attending the clinic of $51.48. Evaluation results indicate that 98% of participants plan to implement at least one new practice within 12 months, primarily cross fencing and rotational grazing. A total impact of $946,017 is reported for the last six clinics. Authors: Stanford, M. K.
  1. Stanford, M. K. Extension Specialist - Nutrient Management, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama, 35962