FoRAqE VaIuE RAlilNqS whAT ARE T^Ey ANd UOWI ARE T^Ey USECJ? 



Forage value ratings are established tor each plant species. These ratings help to 

 determine the "value" of that plant for grazing during the planned season of use. 

 These forage value ratings are essential to assess total forage quality and quantity. 

 Forage value ratings consider forage quality, quantity, and palatability, which are 

 primary factors that influence livestock grazing patterns in woodlands. Forage value 

 ratings should be considered in conjunction with the "grazability factors" described 

 in the distribution section. 



As grasses mature, their palatability to livestock decreases. Some species become so 

 unpalatable that livestock will not eat them if other forage is available. For ex- 

 ample, pinegrass is rated as "desirable" in the NRCS Forestland Grazing Guides, 

 but after its fourth leaf stage (in late summer) its actual forage rating may be "unde- 

 sirable" or "non-consumed" as livestock select other forage. When pinegrass com- 

 prises a major portion of the forage resource, be cautious not to overestimate 

 useable forage production. Knowing local conditions is important when making 



such estimates. The forage value rating tor pinegrass would be lower in the ta 

 grazing and its palatability decreases as the growing season nears completion. 



Forage lalue julin^.s toji.'iitici /oiagc quulitv, quantity^ and Imialahdily, u/iic/i uic 

 lirhnary factors that influence livestock grazing patterns in woodlands. 



Its value tor 



Iincstiund ^lu^m^ unit. 



m/luencc live.stock distribution in a 



Abandoned logging roads often hold bluegrass, clover, or other preferred species and may contrib- 

 ute a significant forage resource to a grazing unit. If they comprise a sizeable area, evaluate these 

 areas for their grazing potential and management possibilities. 



LivESTOck disTRibuTioiN In foRESTEd qRAziNq lAi\ds 



Several factors interact to influence livestock distribution in a forestland grazing Linit. They may 

 physically limit the number of acres livestock have access to graze. Remember, when determining 

 stocking rates, count only the acres that livestock will actually use. It is important to recognize 

 these limitations so that you don't accidentally overstock forested acreages. The following are 

 "grazability factors" to consider when setting stocking rates and evaluating lixx'stock distribution 

 in a forested pasture. 



• Slope of the land. 



• Distance to drinking water. 



• Amount of slash or other barriers present, such as downed trees. 



• Miles of roads and trails in the unit. 



T>t^ r/<4fxA4e*v.ef^ Pi/uiti-cet (^r/r-j^) lc\ Cfvi^j/i^^ 



