Keys to effective seasonal feeding and bedding
More and more cattle producers are recognizing the benefits of the seasonal feeding and bedding of cattle in pastures — known to many producers simply as "winter grazing." Not only can the practice extend the grazing season and, as a result, add more nutrients to the soil, but it can also be a less labour-intensive process.
That said, it's also a practice which requires careful consideration and homework prior to implementation, says Ryan Davison, a Best Management Practice (BMP) lead with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada — Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (AAFC — PFRA).
"You have to start with the basics," he says. "First of all, the animals need sufficient protection from the elements. Secondly, they need ways to access feed and water. And, last but not least, wintering sites need to be set up in a way that does not present the risk of contamination from runoff flowing into water bodies."
An entire chapter of the Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) workbook is dedicated to ways producers can set up their winter grazing sites safely and efficiently. Davison summarizes some of these tips with a list of the do's and don'ts of wintering cattle on seasonal feeding and bedding sites.
Know the regulations. Regulations for cattle wintering fall under the jurisdiction of the Alberta Operation Practices Act (AOPA), which dictates the minimum distances of seasonal feeding and bedding sites from water bodies and neighbouring residences.
"A key thing to remember is that the cattle should not be within 30 m (100 ft) of a water body. This helps minimize the possibility of contamination from runoff," says Davison.Water considerations. Water considerations are key to a successful wintering program, says Davison. "You shouldn't rely on solar-powered waterers and snow alone; it's best if you allow the cattle access back to your heated water system."
A remote water system can be a significant investment, so producers will want to make sure it works in all weather conditions. "Running it on grid power is definitely the most reliable option. You don't want to be out in the pasture during a cold snap trying to get a remote system to work without the option of power."
Keep an eye out. When using snow as a water source, it's important to keep an eye on the situation. "There's a period of generally two to three days before cattle get used to the snow," says Davison. "Be sure to watch them closely and make sure there is no stress from lack of water. If that's the case, you will want to have another source of water there."
Feeding strategies. Common feeding strategies include swath grazing, bale grazing and chaff grazing. "These systems are great for the spreading of manure and getting important nutrients back into the soil."
Strong shelters. Portable shelters should be built solidly with steel frames, heavy pipe and a broad base, says Davison. "Remember that you're transporting it with the resources you have on hand. Be sure to take into consideration whether you'll be lifting or dragging the shelter and the kind of equipment you'll need to do so."
Move bedding often. In order to distribute manure and nutrients in the field, move bedding as often as possible. "Also, make sure the bedding is kept sufficient distance away from water sources and placed on the downwind side of windbreaks."
Fencing issues. The key to managing electric fencing is keeping the run short. "You're less likely to have a grounding problem if you keep the run short," says Davison. "Also, be sure you have good, well-charged batteries on hand."
The Canada-Alberta Farm Stewardship Program (CAFSP) offers cost-share funding of 50 percent for eligible wintering site projects up to a maximum of $15,000. Under this program, up to $50,000 per farm is available for a broad range of on-farm environmental improvements. To become eligible for the CAFSP program, producers must first complete an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), a self-assessment of environmental risk on a farm or ranch.
For more information on the EFP program, visit the Alberta Environmental Farm Plan Company (AEFP) Web site at www.AlbertaEFP.com or call toll-free 1-866-844-2337. For more information on CAFSP, contact the program office toll-free at 1-800-667-8567.
This article is reprintable with credit to AEFP as follows "Reprinted courtesy of the EnviroAgConnect".
