Pasture Utilization: Maximizing Production Efficiency in New Zealand Grazing Systems

Pasture Utilization

If we get the stocking rate right and utilize our grass, we’ll get the production.

"If we get the stocking rate right and utilize our grass, we’ll get the production."

Focusing solely on production targets can be counterproductive, as many factors remain beyond our control—such as the weather. However, maximizing milk and meat production from pasture reduces costs and improves overall farm profitability. Ensuring efficient pasture management prevents both overgrazing and underutilization, leading to higher productivity and sustainability.

Understanding Pasture Utilization

Pasture utilization is a critical factor in the success of New Zealand’s grazing systems. Effective grazing management strategies directly influence livestock performance, profitability, and environmental sustainability.

Pasture utilization refers to the proportion of pasture grown that is actually consumed by livestock. High pasture utilization ensures that farmers make the most of their pasture investment, reducing wastage and improving animal performance.

Factors Affecting Pasture Utilization

Several factors influence how effectively pasture is utilized, including:

• Grazing Management – Rotational grazing benefits include allowing pastures to recover and maintain quality, whereas set stocking can lead to overgrazing or underutilization.

• Stocking Rate Optimization – Matching livestock numbers to pasture growth rates ensures optimal utilization and pasture regrowth.

• Pasture Quality – High-quality ryegrass and clover pasture species with a good balance of legumes and grasses encourage better dry matter intake (DMI) and animal performance.

• Seasonal Growth Patterns – Managing pasture growth rates in response to seasonal fluctuations prevents feed shortages or surpluses.

Should We Be Grazing to 1500 Residual Levels?

Residual levels of 1500 kg DM/ha (dry matter per hectare) are often recommended as a benchmark for optimal pasture regrowth and grazing efficiency. Maintaining this level ensures plants retain enough leaf area for rapid recovery while preventing excessive shading that could reduce tiller density. However, this target should be adjusted based on pasture species, seasonal growth rates, and specific farm needs.

For example:

• Spring and early summer: Faster-growing pastures may be grazed slightly lower, but care should be taken to avoid overgrazing.

• Autumn and winter: Leaving slightly more residual (e.g., 1600-1700 kg DM/ha) can support better regrowth and pasture persistence through slower growth periods.

Should Weekly Pasture Measuring Be Done?

Yes, weekly pasture growth monitoring is one of the most effective ways to manage pasture utilization and ensure livestock receive the right amount of high-quality feed. Regular measuring allows farmers to:

✅ Track pasture growth rates and adjust rotation lengths accordingly.

✅ Identify surpluses and deficits early, allowing for better decision-making around supplementary feeding or silage conservation.

✅ Ensure target pre- and post-grazing covers are met to maintain pasture quality.

Tools like plate meters, pasture growth monitoring apps, rising plate technology, and satellite imagery streamline measurement and improve accuracy. For the most effective pasture management, data should be used alongside a feed budget and grazing planner.

Strategies to Improve Pasture Utilization

1. Rotational Grazing

   • Implementing a well-structured rotational grazing system maximizes pasture growth and utilization while improving soil health.

2. Pasture Measuring & Monitoring

   • Regular assessment of pasture covers using tools like rising plate meters or satellite imagery enhances grazing decisions.

3. Supplementary Feeding

   • Strategic use of silage, hay, or grain during feed deficits helps maintain animal performance and prevents overgrazing.

4. Pasture Renewal & Species Selection

   • Establishing high-performance ryegrass and clover pasture species improves pasture persistence and utilization.

5. Optimizing Grazing Pressure

   • Adjusting stocking rates according to pasture availability ensures pasture is neither wasted nor excessively grazed.

The Economic and Environmental Benefits

Higher Farm Productivity

Efficient pasture utilization leads to improved animal growth rates, higher milk and meat production, and better reproductive performance.

Cost Reduction

Maximizing homegrown feed utilization minimizes reliance on expensive supplementary feeds, reducing overall input costs.

Environmental Sustainability

Proper grazing management lowers nutrient leaching and soil degradation, supporting long-term sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Pasture utilization is the foundation of a profitable and resilient grazing system. By focusing on stocking rate, residual management, and pasture monitoring, farmers can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize production from homegrown feed. While external factors like weather will always play a role, a disciplined approach to pasture management ensures the best possible outcomes season after season.