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The LTAR Grazing Land Common Experiment at Northern Plains
David Toledo1, John Hendrickson1, Mark Liebig1
1USDA-ARS Northern Great Plains Research Laboratory, Mandan, North Dakota, USA.
Journal of Environmental Quality
|August 1, 2024
Summary
This study explores alternative grazing and fire strategies to control invasive Kentucky bluegrass in the Northern Plains. The research compares prevailing practices with novel methods to enhance sustainable grazing lands.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Ecology
- Rangeland Management
Background:
- The USDA Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) network supports sustainable agriculture.
- Invasive Kentucky bluegrass threatens northern Great Plains ecosystems.
- Producers and researchers seek effective management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate tactical fire and grazing for invasive species control.
- To provide an overview of the LTAR Grazing Land Common Experiment at the Northern Plains site.
- To develop alternative agroecological practices for economic and ecosystem benefits.
Main Methods:
- Experiment initiated in 2019 at the Northern Plains LTAR site.
- Contrasted prevailing season-long grazing with four alternative practices: mob grazing, multi-species grazing, prescribed fire, and fire followed by grazing.
- Utilized half-hectare plots with plans for 15-hectare field scale application every five years.
Main Results:
- The experiment is ongoing, with initial focus on establishing treatment contrasts.
- Stakeholder engagement is integral to co-producing and refining alternative practices.
- Long-term data collection is planned to assess outcomes over time.
Conclusions:
- The LTAR Grazing Land Common Experiment investigates innovative approaches to invasive species management.
- Developing effective, sustainable grazing and fire strategies is crucial for ecosystem health.
- This research aims to optimize both economic and ecological outcomes in grazing lands.
