114 Evaluation of Assertions from Educational, Outreach and Engagement Programs in Pasture-Based Livestock Systems

Abstract Assertions about grazing management and systems should be evaluated based on the scientific literature. Prior assumptions can limit our ability to achieve constructive dialogue regarding merits of various stocking methods. These include assumption that rotational is inherently superior continuous stocking, regardless nature overall system, presumption implies overgrazing. We revisited assertions in general, but more specifically choice method, considered their merit context evidence from literature, including a chapter titled Prescribed Grazing Pasturelands National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) literature synthesis published 2012. framed those form questions. The questions were: a) Does ensure well-managed pastures?, b) result greater accumulation soil carbon than stocking?, c) increase pasture productivity optimal rate compared with d) forage nutritive value individual animal performance versus e) Do pastures “look better” stocking?. objectives were consider whether these often-stated supported, refuted, or simply not adequately assessed by body evidence. It important recognize method only one element system. Thus, “one piece very large pie”. Additionally, (grazing intensity) separate independent such both rotationally continuously stocked understocked, overstocked, optimally stocked. unfortunate dominates discussions improving expense other issues, when fact intensity has been shown conclusively most determinant wide array soil, plant, animal, ecosystem responses. have observed terminology us regenerative grazing, holistic planned adaptative multipaddock intensive high low frequency others, arise frequently dominate realm education, outreach engagement programs pasture-based livestock systems. words/themes lack clear definition, this specificity may promote misconceptions, thus hindering opportunity for critical thinking ultimately advancement improvement Educational efforts strive remain relevant focusing experimental Local (i.e., state county level) are challenged providing timely specific information implementable guidelines frequent observations at landscape farm levels.