size of padocks question!!

NewBeefFarmer

Ok, i have about 30 acres. In about 5 lots.
The question i have is there a math formula to decide on how big a padock should be?
Supposs im grazing 10 cattle 300kgs.

Thanks
newbeeffarmer

Muckit

I thought the dairy paddock grazing experts would have this answered by now!

Basically Newbeeffarmer paddock size for every farm is different. But all will revolve around the same basic principles:

• the size of your grazing group
• the length of time it takes to grow the optimum amount of grass fit for grazing on your farm

Most paddock systems are based roughly on a 21 day rotation. Ie animals that graze a paddock will not be back in that paddock for approx 3weeks. This allows the paddock to grow back the optimum amount of grass fit for grazing. This obviuosly is just a guideline as it depends on many factors including, but not limited to, grass growth conditions.

You also ideally want your grazing group to be able to graze out the paddock bare, without grazing regrowth. The group should therefore only remain in it for 2-3days MAX.

Assuming a 21 day rotation and leaving animals 3 days to graze each paddock, you will need at least 7 paddocks. So you should ideally divide up your main grazing ground into 7-8 paddocks if you want to keep the optimum amount of animals on your farm.

You will use your silage ground for extra temp paddocks during the spring/autumn when grass grow rates are lower and stock will have the grass eaten quicker.

Explanation a bit technical, but you should ge the drift:rolleyes:

NewBeefFarmer

Lol i thought this would have gotten loads of replys, confirm one thing for me, people do use paddocks right?

Muckit

don't mind what 'people' are doing lad. Do your own thing

If you want to use paddocks, use paddocks