Management Strategies for Rangeland and Introduced Pastures Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

Oklahoma is blessed with an abundance of excellent forage resources. Many Oklahoma producers enjoy the benefits of operating livestock production systems on both rangeland and introduced-forage pastures. However, some producers may not be aware of the need for different management strategies for the two ecosystems. Improper management generally results in decreased profitability of the livestock operation and reduces the sustainability of the production system. The net return per acre from rangeland ecosystems can be rewarding due to the lower input costs associated with extensive management practices. Net return per acre to the producer using introduced forages can also be rewarding due to the higher carrying capacity per acre generally realized when using introduced forages. Higher carrying capacity results in more beef gain per acre and reduced land costs per animal. The cost of using either introduced forages or rangeland (native) plants can be high if not properly managed. This publication discusses the differences in rangelands and introduced-forage pastures and management strategies required for each.