Cicer milkvetch abundance

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Impacts of two different grazing intensities on cicer milkvetch (Astragalus cicer) abundance on a planted native grass pasture

Approach

Abundance of cicer milkvetch was tested under the two grazing treatments of the Planned Grazing project (high density rotation compared to low density continuous grazing).

Key Findings

Average cicer milkvetch abundance is much higher than grass abundance in all paddocks prior to grazing. Although both cicer milkvetch and grass are being eaten by cattle, abundance of cicer milkvetch is higher than grass after grazing. Grass abundance remains relatively stable prior to and after grazing in both systems.

Initial herbivory results indicate that cattle are selecting grass over the cicer milkvetch in both grazing systems. As expected, herbivory of cicer milkvetch was higher in the high density grazing as these cattle would be less selective and be forced to eat what was available.