Staked Grazed Cows and their Effect on Consumption and Condition of the Pasture

Abstract

The research was carried out in Celendín, Cajamarca, at 2893 m.a.s.l., in order to determine the effect of grazing dairy cows on consumption (Kg MS) and the condition of the raigras-white clover pasture during the rainy season. The population sample to determine consumption was made up of 117 Holstein, Brown Swiss and Holstein x Brown Swiss cows; and for pasture condition by 120 hectares. Consumption was determined by measuring the pasture area assigned to the animals daily and by mowing the pasture at ground level, a minimum of three samples, using 1 m2 quadrants; the samples were transported to the Laboratory of the National University of Cajamarca and placed in an oven at 105°C for 24 hours. The condition of the pasture was based on desired fodder plants, bare soil, unwanted species, legume input, vigor, uniformity of use, evidence of overgrazing and extreme soil compaction. Descriptive statistics were used with their respective averages, standard deviation and coefficient of variability. The animals consumed an average of 10.9 kg MS (2.6% of their live weight). The average pasture condition was 18.5 which is considered poor. The magnitude of the results forces to improve the management of the pastures