Events and Activities : 'Intensive grazing' pasture walk set for May 23, near Giard

Pasture Walk Focuses on Intensive Grazing

Pasture improvement and rotational grazing are key topics for many beef and dairy producers, but one of the big challenges becomes subdivision, fencing, and watering systems over rolling or rough terrain. These topics will be discussed at a pasture walk at the farm of Greg Koether on Wednesday, May 23, at 1 pm.

Koether has been intensively grazing for many years in his pastures near Giard. He has multiple subdivided pastures with various clover seeding improvements and an above ground pipeline watering system. He has also created a unique system to move the water tank using a sled system behind an ATV. Koether recently installed automatic gates allowing for paddock moves multiple times per day.

Marc Strobbe, the Farm Viability Coordinator for Practical Farmers of Iowa will attend to share information on their beginning farmer and mentoring program. NRCS staff will also be on hand to discuss cost share programs to assist in pasture improvement and the organic cost share program. The Koether pasture is located at 14509 Gold Mine Rd, north of Giard.

Pasture walks are informal educational programs designed to demonstrate one or two key areas of pasture management, as well as answer any questions you might have. Each has a slightly different focus and producers are invited to attend any that are of interest to improving their own pasture management.

All producers who are dependent on forage production are invited to attend. If you have questions, or need detailed directions to the farm location, contact Denise Schwab in the Benton County Extension office at 319-472-4739.