Grazing “exclosures,” offer a practical solution for livestock producers seeking to enhance grazing efficiency and maximize pasture productivity, as advocated by regenerative ranching advisors at the Noble Research Institute. These exclosures consist of small fenced areas within grazing units, carefully designed to prevent livestock access while allowing forage growth to proceed undisturbed.
The primary benefit of grazing exclosures lies in their ability to provide ranchers with direct visibility into grazing patterns and forage utilization. By keeping livestock out of these designated areas and maintaining meticulous record-keeping, producers can accurately assess which forage species are being consumed, the extent of grazing pressure, and the overall impact on pasture health.
When it comes to constructing grazing exclosures, flexibility is key. While there are no strict guidelines regarding size, experts recommend a minimum dimension of three feet by three feet to ensure adequate space for observation and analysis. Additionally, exclosures can be built using various materials, including cattle or hog panels, as long as they are tall enough to prevent livestock from reaching over.
Ensuring that grazing exclosures are representative of the forage growing in the surrounding area is essential for accurate assessment. Proximity to sunlight and proper placement within the grazing unit are crucial factors to consider when establishing exclosures, as they directly influence forage growth and composition.
