How do you know when it is time to move animals out of a pasture?

From a grazing management perspective, animals should be moved to a new pasture when the utilization of key forage species reaches a predetermined threshold. Key forage species are generally those that provide high quality nutrients to animals and are thus preferred above other plants in the pasture. If animals are left until all plants are used, then most likely, the key forage plants will be severely used and may begin to decline in the plant community. The animals themselves can also "tell" a manager when it is time to move to a fresh pasture. When animals appear discontent and spend more time roaming the pasture or traveling fencelines, it can indicate a shortage of forage quantity or quality. Examine key forage species for use levels and if use is minimal, supplemental feeding may be necessary for animals to meet their nutritional requirements.

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