Does ultra high density grazing as part of adaptive multi-paddock grazing have merit in Ontario?

Farmer: Tony McQuail

Farm: Meeting Place Organic Farm

Region: West

Publish Date: February 6, 2018

Article Type: Research Project

Research Priorities: Pasture Regeneration 

Adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing uses short grazing intervals followed by long rest periods. By doing so, this system allows for plant recovery, promotes optimal plant communities, protects against erosion and leads to net carbon storage in the soil (Stanley et al 2018). To optimize his grazing, Tony assessed the benefits of ultra high density grazing as part of his AMP approach. Specifically, he tested whether a single pass of mob grazing would provide a “hit and boost” to his pastures. Key Findings:

  • The amount of forage consumed was the same, irrespective of standard or ultra high density grazing.
  • Tony found no difference in pasture recovery between standard and ultra high density grazing.
  • Tony will graze these areas in a similar way next year to see if a second year of a “hit and boost” has benefits.