Episode 299 - The Grass Is Growing Faster Than the Cows Can Eat - UMN Extension's The Moos Room

The Moos Room™

In Episode 299 of The Moos Room, Emily returns to the mic, reminding Brad—and the audience—that The Moos Room is a team effort, not just "The Bradley Show." The two catch up and share updates on their chaotic summer schedules in the world of Extension before diving into the topic of the week: pasture management in mid-June.

Brad gives a detailed look at what’s happening in Morris, where heavy rainfall (over five inches in the past month) has led to explosive pasture growth. With 315 cows now grazing—including the conventional herd—he’s doing everything he can to keep up with the grass. He shares his strategies for dealing with overgrown pastures, including increasing stocking density, rotating more quickly, and when mowing or even baling might be necessary.

They discuss the challenges of maintaining forage quality, the role of manure scores and milk urea nitrogen (MUN) as indicators of nutritional balance, and the complications posed by persistent rain—especially thistle outbreaks in organic systems where herbicide options are limited.

The episode closes with practical tips for producers facing similar pasture overgrowth issues: keep animals moving, don’t be afraid to mow, and have a flexible grazing plan. And of course, the excitement builds for Episode 300, coming next week!

Listeners are encouraged to email their thoughts (or rebuttals to Brad’s rain enthusiasm) to [email protected] and tune in for the big milestone ahead.

Grazing and pasture management for cattle

Managing perennial cool-season forage grasses in Minnesota

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> [email protected] or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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