Grazing Project

Funding through the Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative and Wisconsin Department of Ag, Trade, & Consumer Protection created a joint position between the Land Conservation Department and Natural Resource Conservation Service. Dale Peacock is the Grazing Specialist for Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas and Iron Counties. He can be reached at 715-773-1981.

Since 45% of non-federal rural land in the U.S. is comprised of grazing land, it is essential to encourage proper management for improved economic, social, and environmental reasons. Intensive, or rotational, managed grazing is a solution. Managed grazing is a system of raising and feeding livestock in which the livestock are moved on a regular basis- typically daily.

Project goals:

1. Demonstrate the feasibility of managed intensive grazing in seasonal dairy or other animal operations for area farmers. 

2. Showcase profitability of various aspects of managed intensive grazing to area farmers.

3. Develop/enhance a viable agricultural use for the Ashland Ag Research Station that provides the basis for possible future related eco-sustainable research projects and supports cooperation with University officials and professors. 

4. Invite farmers, resource professionals, and researchers to learn more about the use of northern pasturelands through workshops, newsletters, and face-to-face contacts. 

5. Encourage formation of a more active association of area graziers to increase communication.