Cattle Stocking Rate Calculator
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing key information about cattle stocking rates:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Forage Demand | Amount of forage needed by livestock types |
| Available Forage | Amount of forage produced and available for grazing |
| Animal Size / Class | Size and physiological stage of the animals affect their needs |
| Grazing Duration | Duration animals are allowed to graze affects the rate |
| Weather Conditions | Seasonal and yearly weather patterns influence forage growth |
| Soil Quality | Soil health impacts forage production and sustainability |
| Pasture Species Composition | Different plants provide varying nutritional values |
| Trampling Impact | High stocking rates increase trampling and forage loss |
| Water Availability | Access to water is crucial for animal health and productivity |
| Management Practices | Effective management can optimize stocking rates and grazing |
| Animal Unit (AU) | One 1000 lb steer eating about 3% body weight per day1 |
| Animal Unit Month (AUM) | Forage required to sustain one AU for one month2 |
| Carrying Capacity | Maximum long-term stocking rate sustainable without damaging resources2 |
| Stocking Rate Calculation | Total Land Area รท [(# AUs) x (Grazing Season)]5 |
| Comparative Stocking Rate (CSR) | kg of liveweight per tonne of feed available (including supplements)4 |
| Optimal CSR | 90 kg/t DM for maximizing efficiency of milk solids production4 |
| Economic Considerations | Increasing stocking rates can increase returns but also financial risk3 |
| Flexibility | Maintaining flexible stocking rates helps adapt to rainfall variability6 |
| Pasture Rotation | Can allow for higher stocking rates with proper management7 |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the key factors and considerations involved in determining and managing cattle stocking rates. It includes information on forage, animal characteristics, environmental factors, management practices, and calculation methods.