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Differentiated dairy grazing intensity in the Northeast
J R Winsten1, R L Parsons, G D Hanson
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, USA. jwinsten@psu.edu
Journal of Dairy Science
|May 3, 2000
Summary
Intensive grazing systems for dairy cattle in the Northeast were associated with younger farmers, higher stocking densities, and increased farmer satisfaction. Formal education and higher debt-to-asset ratios predicted greater future reliance on grazing.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Economics
- Animal Science
- Sustainable Agriculture
Background:
- The Northeast dairy industry faced economic challenges in the 1990s.
- Grazing emerged as a potential feeding strategy for dairy cattle.
- Various grazing systems exist, differing in intensity and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare dairy farm operations across four grazing systems: continuous, traditional, moderately intensive, and intensive.
- To identify factors influencing farmers' adoption and future reliance on grazing.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a large, random sample of dairy farms in Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Virginia in early 1997.
- Comparison of operational aspects across different grazing systems.
- Logit regression to determine predictors of increased grazing reliance.
Main Results:
- Farmers utilizing intensive grazing were younger, managed more cows per acre, and reported higher operational satisfaction.
- Higher levels of formal education and a greater debt-to-asset ratio were significant predictors of increased future grazing adoption.
Conclusions:
- Intensive grazing systems may offer benefits to dairy operations, including improved farmer satisfaction and efficiency.
- Farmer demographics and financial indicators are associated with the adoption of grazing practices.
- Further research into the economic and environmental impacts of different grazing intensities is warranted.