Practices such as prevention of overgrazing and increasing forage species diversity can help livestock producers increase soil health in pastureland. Overgrazing of forages reduces ground cover, increasing risk of soil erosion and nutrient runoff. Overgrazing also increases compaction and reduces forage stands. Improved grazing management strategies and increased rotational grazing can help to improve soil quality and prevent erosion.  

For information on extending your grazing season and determining appropriate forage mixtures for your region, visit

• Forage Systems for Cow-Calf Operations in North Alabama
• Forage Systems for Cow-Calf Operations in South Alabama
• Forage Systems for Cow-Calf Operations in Central Alabama

For information on determining appropriate stocking rates to prevent overgrazing, visit

• Stocking Rates for Cow-Calf Operations in Alabama