By Scout Nelson
Range and grazing management specialists highlight that winter is one of the most valuable times to evaluate pasture health and grazing outcomes, as dormant-season conditions clearly show how last year’s management affected grasses, soil, and livestock use patterns.
Dormant plants provide honest signals. Without new growth hiding past stress, managers can clearly see residual forage, stubble height, litter cover, and grazing pressure. These clues help guide decisions long before spring green-up begins. Winter assessments allow producers to look back accurately and plan with confidence.
One key factor to observe is stubble height and remaining forage. Very short or uniform stubble across a pasture often shows heavy grazing pressure or high stocking rates. Patchy short stubble points to poor grazing distribution. In contrast, varied heights usually suggest balanced use and healthier plant recovery potential.
Litter, often called soil armor, is another important indicator. This dead plant material protects soil, holds moisture, supports nutrients, and helps new seedlings. If bare soil is more visible than litter, the pasture likely needs to rest or a change in grazing timing during the next season.
Winter also highlights grazing distribution patterns. Trails, heavily used areas near water, and stressed riparian zones are easier to spot. These patterns help managers ask why livestock favored certain areas and how placement of water, minerals, or fencing could improve use next year.
Plant communities also tell a story. An increase in weedy or less desirable species, or stress on key grasses, may signal repeated pressure at the same time each year. Catching these changes early helps prevent long-term damage.
Using winter observations, managers can plan rest periods, adjust stocking levels, and make small changes that prevent larger problems. A few hours of winter monitoring can strengthen pasture health, improve grazing efficiency, and support long-term land resilience.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Weather