This workshop will feature research results from the mob grazing research conducted in conjunctioin with SDSU over the last few years.

Topics and Presenters

Mob Grazing in Nebraska: Ranch History, Goals, and Management - Chad Peterson
Mob Grazing at Barta Brothers’ Ranch - Ben Beckman and Miles Redden
Soil organic matter - Ana Wingeyer

About demonstrating mobgrazing

With this project we want to demonstrate the influence of mob grazing on rangeland vegetation composition and productivity, soil and water quality, and soil carbon sequestration, alongside typical rotational grazing systems currently used in the Sandhills. We document the effect of mob grazing systems on rangeland health on both upland and meadow sites at different stocking densities in the Sandhills.

Proposed benefits of mobgrazing

Hypotheses are that the trampling of vegetation and incorporation of litter through hoof action, together with a uniform manure and urine distribution promote microbial activity and the rapid recycling of nutrients, which can favor increases in soil organic matter and water infiltration. The pastures benefit from the rapid recycling of nutrients and the incorporation of seeds into soil resulting in more vegetation diversity and productivity. The extended recovery period allows for deeper root development re-sulting in drought resistance and improved wildlife habitat.