Winter feed is one of the biggest cost challenges for solar graziers—and often a key factor in whether an operation thrives or struggles. In this month’s Grazing with Cam, Andrew Weaver shared practical strategies for stockpiling forages and managing feed through the colder months.

Following Andrew’s presentation, we had an open discussion where Camren and Andrew were able to answer questions from the audience, and members were able to share their experiences with stockpiling forages.

Andrew first began by defining what is stockpiled forage, which refers to grass allowed to grow and accumulate during late summer and fall for later winter grazing. Certain forages maintain nutritional value and palatability through winter months, making them ideal candidates for stockpiled forage. Stockpiling forage requires planned management, but are a cost-effective alternative.

Andrew discussed which forages are best for stockpiling. Tall fescue is the ideal forage due to its unique characteristics, including: superior retention, cold tolerance, high protein content through winter, and persistent green tissue.

During Andrew’s presentation, he covered the economic and operational benefits for solar grazing operations. These include a reduction in cost for feed, nutrient cycling, reduced equipment needs, and an extended grazing system. Additionally, animals harvest their own feed rather than requiring mechanical harvesting, transportation, and feeding, improving resource efficiency.

Strategies for strategic site selection to maximize stockpiling success was discussed. Fescue-dominant areas are ideal, as are locations that historically receive adequate fall rainfall. Timing is adjusted based on local climate patterns and historical rainfall data. Accessible winter grazing and rotational grazing management should also be considered.

In addition to selecting a site, stockpiling requires specific management practices. Stockpiling should begin in early-mid August in most regions. The area should be grazed or mowed to 2-4 inches before beginning stockpiling, and animals should be kept completely off stockpiled areas until winter grazing begins. Frontal grazing or strip grazing works well for maximum utilization. Residual height should be maintained at 3-4 inches to ensure spring regrowth.

Timing is critical for successful stockpile management. Most regions begin stockpiling in early August, but drought-prone areas will begin earlier. 60-90 days of uninterrupted growth should be allowed before beginning winter grazing. Stockpiled forage can be grazed from roughly November through January, but timin is adjusted based on rainfall patterns and temperature forecasts.

Stockpiling offers advantages for solar grazing operations. These include reduced winter feeding costs, an extended grazing system, improved soil health, reduced equipment needs, improved operational efficiency, and nutrient cycling. Along with its benefits, stockpiling challenges must be addressed. These involve drought management, fertilization limitations, weed competition, height restrictions, regional variations, and available forages.