Stocking Density Affects Diet Selection

Abstract

Does stocking density affect diet selection? To some that is a question that would require much research, thought, and study. Based on my ex- perience as a grazier in Missouri, that is a no- brainer. Of course, stocking density has a profound effect on diet selection as well as livestock performance and plant species diversity and even affects water and mineral cycles. The thoughts and opinions in this article come from years of hands-on, real-world, make-it-or-break-it, farm experi- ence with different size herds, different forages, and different management styles.

DOI: 10.2458/azu_rangelands_v35i5_peterson