KindHarvest summary: Arkansas researchers tested forage species beneath pine and hardwood canopies to help smaller beef producers combine grazing and forestry. Tall fescue and orchardgrass proved the most resilient options in the shaded trial settings.
Wide pine alleys supported forage
Pine rows at the study site were about 40 feet apart. Researchers reported that this width allowed forage establishment and that accumulated pine needles did not significantly interrupt growth. Tall fescue and orchardgrass also appeared to recover from dry periods under the changed water conditions created by shade.
Shade changed yield and growing conditions
Preliminary 2020 results from the pine alleys recorded 2.47 tons of biomass per acre for tall fescue and 2.01 tons for orchardgrass, with annual ryegrass close behind at 1.94 tons. Open areas produced more forage overall, but shaded plots had less evaporation and lower pressure from some weeds.
Silvopasture must be designed as a system
Tree spacing, canopy density, forage species, water, livestock access and timber objectives all affect performance. The trial shows that forage can grow between trees; it does not mean every existing woodland is ready for grazing. Establishment and stocking should protect trees, soil and animal welfare. Related reading: silvopasture and cattle heat stress.
Source and credit
This KindHarvest Team research brief is based on reporting by John Lovett for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, published 20 April 2022. The original syndicated Farm Progress address is no longer usable. Read the full University of Arkansas article.