Calculate optimal stocking rates for pasture management based on acreage, forage availability, livestock type and grazing period to maximize sustainable grazing.
Stocking Rate
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Animal Unit Months (AUM)
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Total Forage Required
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Available Forage
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Days per Paddock
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Acres per Head
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Stocking rate is the number of animals per unit of land for a specific time period. It's crucial for sustainable pasture management as it prevents overgrazing, maintains soil health, and ensures adequate forage for livestock while allowing pasture recovery.
Dry matter yield varies by pasture type, climate, and management. Perennial pastures in high rainfall areas typically yield 2-4 tons per acre, while native range may yield 1-3 tons. Contact your local extension office for site-specific estimates or conduct forage sampling.
Generally, allow 40-60% utilization of available forage. Lower utilization (25-40%) promotes pasture health and regrowth, while higher utilization (50-75%) maximizes short-term production but may stress the pasture. Consider your management goals and pasture conditions.
The number of paddocks depends on your rotation frequency and rest period goals. Typically, 4-8 paddocks work well for most operations. More paddocks allow shorter grazing periods and longer rest, improving pasture health and forage quality.
An AUM represents the amount of forage consumed by one animal unit (1000 lb cow with calf) in one month, typically about 780-900 lbs of dry matter. It's a standard measure used to compare different livestock types and calculate grazing fees.
Heavier animals consume more forage relative to their body weight. The calculator uses standard intake rates (about 2.5-3% of body weight in dry matter daily) to determine forage requirements. Adjust the average weight based on your specific livestock.
Monitor pasture conditions regularly and adjust stocking rates based on forage availability, weather conditions, and pasture health. Reduce stocking during drought or slow growth periods, and consider seasonal variations in forage production.
Continuous grazing allows animals constant access to the entire pasture, while rotational grazing moves animals between paddocks to allow rest and regrowth. Rotational systems typically support higher stocking rates and improve pasture health.