The grazing rotation: Effects of different combinations of presence and absence.

Abstract

The "period of presence" of animals in a camp and the subsequent "period of absence" form two important components of rotational grazing systems. In an investigation into the effects of a range of periods of presence and absence on Tall Grassveld in Natal, results after the first and second three-year cycles of grazing suggest a definite trend towards increased productivity of veld as the period of presence is reduced from 20 to 2 days, and the period of absence is increased from 20 to 60 days. Of the combinations which have led to good production at this stage, the 10 days in and 60 days out rotation which requires only 7 grazing camps, appears the most practicable.

Keywords: grazing; grazing systems; natal; period of absence; production; productivity; rotational grazing; south africa; tall grassveld; veld