Stock Density Management in Action

We've all heard about the benefits of increasing stock density-but what does the jump from 5,000 to 100,000 lbs of animal per acre actually look like in practice? Join SFA Grazing Education Lead Patrick Toomey and Farmer Education Director Jonathan Kilpatrick at Great Heritage Farms near Winthrop, Minnesota, where farmers Leah and Benjamin Matzke will demonstrate increasing stock densities in real time. Participants will observe, compare, and discuss how pastures, soils, and livestock respond at each level. Topics include: How stock density and time on pasture influence outcomes Understanding Brix and what it means for ruminant nutrition Plant and soil responses to grazing-and why they matter Identifying overgrazing (even in well-managed systems) "Gardening" pastures with livestock for long-term productivity This is a hands-on, in-field learning experience focused on what to look for, how to interpret what you see, and how to apply it back on your own operation. The material covered is in the 201 - 301 level range, the event is designed for attendees with moderate to high experience with grazing. Registration: Free Admission. Pre-registration requested. Lunch will be provided. Info: Patrick Toomey EMAIL This material is based upon work supported by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, under agreement number 2004.25.085287 "Expanding Regenerative Grazing in the Upper Mississippi Watershed." Inherent Risks of Agritourism Inherent Risks of Livestock Activity SFA staff and volunteers occasionally take photos during our events for promotional purposes and to use as documentation to share with our funders. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let our event host know -- we'll make every effort to make sure you are not photographed.