Evaluating Cool Season Grasses for Intensive Grazing Success

1. Evaluating Cool Season Grassesfor Intensive Grazing Success Gary W. Wilson Extension Educator – Ag & Natural Resources Ohio State University Extension, Hancock County 7868 CR 140 Suite B, Findlay OH 45840 Phone: 419-422-3851

2. Cool Season Grass Research Plots Research involving 32 improved grass varieties, grass/legume mixtures was conducted at the University of Findlay (Ohio) Equestrian Center. Each 15x24-foot plot was replicated three times and evaluated for yield and quality. Quantitatively, species were rated for height and yield using a rising plate meter correlated by biomass density on a dry matter basis. Qualitative ratings were used to evaluate weed pressure, the overall quality of each plot, and samples were taken for nutrient analysis. These measurements were taken approximately 3-4 times per year for 4 years (2003 – 2006). A special horse grazing preference study was also conducted in 2004 and 2005.

3. Grass Research Plots at University of Findlay Equestrian Center Preparing for grass plot plantings

4. Cool Season Grasses Involved in Research

5. Top Performing Grasses in This Study • Yield • Horsemaster Mix + Alice White Clover • Bronson Tall Fescue • Hakari Bromegrass • Bardina Orchard Grass • Quality (not including generic varieties) • Ampac Mix (OG,TF,PRG & WC) • Festulolium • Timothy • Perennial Ryegrass

6. University of Findlay andOhio State University of ExtensionHorse PaddockGrazing Preference Study

7. W S N E University of Findlay & Ohio State University Extension Horse Grazing Study Four different grasses with 3 reps – planted 9-8-03

8. OSU Extension and University of Findlay Paddock Grazing Research Summary All Mornings – 2004: June, August & October % of 5 minute observations

9. OSU Extension and University of Findlay Nine horses observed over 1000 hours June, August & October 2004 % of 5 minute observations