• Evaluate grazing program for the past grazing season. Start planning for changes in forages or management that will be implemented in the spring or late winter.
• Apply phosphate, potash, and lime according to soil test recommendations.
• Frost seeding of clovers should be performed between February 1 and March 1.
• Nitrogen fertilizer can be applied in late February to promote early grass growth if clover percentage is low.
• Inventory standing forage and develop a plan to utilize remaining forage. Alfalfa can be grazed after November 1 or the first killing frost with no negative effects on spring growth as long as the ground is firm. Do not allow animals to spend more time in the field than necessary to graze forage.
• Inspect and prepare water systems for freezing temperatures. Be sure that livestock have access to water at all times.
• Reduce damage to pastures by removing animals or reducing traffic during extremely wet conditions.
• Consider using a sacrifice area, permanent feed pad, or dry lot. If a sacrifice area is not used, rotating feeding areas frequently will help reduce soil erosion, compaction, and distribute manure nutrients more evenly.
• Sample hay and obtain forage analysis prior to feeding or sale. Develop a plan for when and to which livestock hay will be fed.

Categories: 
Winter