Western Research and Demonstration Farm

Grazing Fall-Seeded Cover Crops with Stocker Cattle

Authors: , , , ,

Abstract

Interest in establishing cover crops following grain production has gained traction in the last few years in an effort to protect Iowa’s soils and waters. Cover crops also provide opportunities to extend the grazing season and capture the cover crop establishment costs. However, the window for establishment and fall growth can be challenging due to the timing of grain harvest, seeding method, species selection, and weather conditions. Therefore, the objective of this project was to evaluate effectiveness of fall-grazing an oat and cereal rye cover crop mix by beef stocker cattle to promote a sustainable crop and livestock system that increases farming efficiency, while improving water quality and protecting soil resources.

Keywords:

How to Cite: Lundy, E. L. , Vittetoe, R. , Schwab, D. L. , Loy, D. D. & Beedle, C. (2020) “Grazing Fall-Seeded Cover Crops with Stocker Cattle”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports. 2019(1).