The Indiana Grazing Bites program is a collaboration between the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and Indiana farmers aimed at promoting sustainable land use through managed grazing. Grazing is a vital agricultural practice in Indiana, but if not properly managed, can lead to soil erosion and degradation and nutrient runoff, impacting water quality.
To address this issue, the Grazing Bites program educates farmers on innovative grazing techniques such as rotational and strip grazing, which prevent overgrazing and increase productivity and profitability. The program also encourages the use of cover crops to improve soil health and reduce erosion and riparian buffers to protect waterways from nutrient runoff.
The success of the program is evident in the increased adoption of managed grazing practices by Indiana farmers. By promoting sustainable land use, the Grazing Bites program not only benefits farmers but also conserves Indiana's natural resources for future generations.
The upcoming International Grassland Congress (IGC) hosted by the American Forage and Grassland Council in Covington, KY from May 14 to 19, 2023, will highlight the latest research and practices in this field. The theme of the conference is "Grassland for Soil, Animal, and Human Health." Attendees can learn from experts in the field and network with others who share a passion for sustainable land use practices. For more information on the IGC or to register, visit https://internationalgrasslands.org/2023-igc/ or follow the event on social media at @IGC2023.
Photo Credit: istock-heebyj
Categories: Indiana, Livestock