Pasture walks are one method used by extension educators, Natural Resource Conservation Services, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, or industry reps to showcase operations, highlight approved practices and products, or just as a platform to promote forage and pasture grazing management.

Though many warm-season grass pastures are dormant this time of year, the extended drought has reduced normal forage production somewhere near 70 percent of the usual seasonal total.

Spring of 2011 had brought significant challenges to livestock grazing operations. In many areas, 10 to 12 inches of rain fell from April to May, preventing land from drying out during early-spring grazing. And recent snow melts have cause flooding in other areas.

Thomas Edison wrote, “Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” My good fortune, managing grasslands that resemble the lost prairies, has come through the inspiration and mentorship of many graziers throughout the country.

Pastures must be well-established to be highly productive. Before establishing new pastures or renovating existing pastures, producers must evaluate the farm’s forage needs.