Grazing in central hardwood forests

Abstract

Woodland grazing is a major forestry and land management problem in parts of the central hardwood region. Most forest grazing is by cattle and, to a lesser extent, hogs in woodlands adjacent to pastures or feedlots. The practice is particularly common in the cattle producing areas of the Corn Belt where often 50 percent or more of the upland forest is grazed. Woodland grazing has minor benefits for livestock but exposes them to poisonous plants, and causes extensive and long-lasting damage to the forest. Livestock benefits are primarily shade, forage, and protection from wind in winter, while the damages to the forest are numerous. For additional information, see Note 11.04 Grazing Effects on Soil and Water.

Parent Publication

• Central hardwood notes

Citation

McQuilkin, Robert A.; Scholten, Harold. 1989. Grazing in central hardwood forests. In: Hutchinson, Jay G., ed. Central hardwood notes. St. Paul, MN.: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 8.14