The key to successfully managing a grassland is to recognize potential woody encroachment problems early and control them before they become severe. After removing woody plants, it is critical to keep the area clear for long-term success. Grazing and pasture management can limit the recurrence of woody plants when they are consistently monitored and small plants are removed. Good grazing management is a critical aspect of grassland health, and none of the control options listed below will work fully without proper grazing management. Land managers have also expressed that repeated prescribed burns keep small saplings from growing into large infestations and taking over pastures and are a critical tool to keeping land clear long term.
Protect Grasslands from Seed Sources
When managing grasslands with no visible woody plants, it may be easy to think that the area doesn’t need any management. However, if there is a seed source within 200 yards, it can affect your land. So, woody plants on adjoining land can affect your operation. The goal is to maximize the distance between intact grasslands and potential woody plant seed sources.
Livestock can also be a source of long-distance seed dispersal when their manure contains seeds of woody plants such as mesquite and honey locusts. So, use caution when moving livestock from woody plant-infested pastures to intact grasslands. Seeds should clear from the digestive tract within approximately five days after consumption.
Remove Woody Plants at First Sight
One strategy for keeping grasslands clear of woody plants is continually removing them at first sight. To do that, getting in the habit of bringing loppers or a chainsaw whenever you are out in the pasture is helpful. Many producers have reported that this is helpful. Having the necessary equipment readily available makes it more likely they will remove the plant when first seen.
Conduct Regular Prescribed Burns
Once the woody invasion is under control, maintenance burns can be conducted. Completing a prescribed burn regularly will help alleviate any small saplings from becoming established. The burn interval will vary depending on location, history of fire use, level of woody encroachment, and fuel load. Many land managers find success conducting maintenance burns once every three to four years in areas with higher rainfall and once every five to ten years in areas with lower rainfall.
Develop a Grazing Plan
Grazing management is critical to preventing woody plants from encroaching on healthy grasslands. Some key aspects to consider when developing a grazing plan include the following.
- Avoid overgrazing.
- Graze rotationally.
- Manage stock density.
- Allow for rest and recovery of grass.
- Be aware of growing seasons and the timing of grazing.
- Use different livestock species to focus on woody plant removal.
- Monitor and adapt the grazing plan as needed.
Managing and developing a grazing plan may be overwhelming if you’ve never completed one before. If you need assistance, consider working with a local conservation partner.