Pasture forage species and varieties within species should be adapted to local soil and climatic conditions. Pasture forages may include both warm-season or cool-season annuals and perennials. Perennial pasture species have a big advantage in not having to be reseeded annually. Selective use of annuals can provide very high quality forage for lactating cows during periods when perennials are not actively growing. Combinations of forage species in the same or in different pastures may provide for more options for grazing throughout the year.
Check for local information available through your state's land-grant university and local Cooperative Extension Service offices. Also, your local Natural Resources Conservation Service offices may have relevant information on pasture species. Experience of other dairy graziers within a state or region can be very useful. Some areas may have dairy grazing discussion groups or grazing schools to facilitate learning about pastures and pasture management.
