Books Art and Science of Grazing, The

“The Art and the Science of Grazing,” written by Sarah Flack, is a comprehensive book written with a unique approach. As a nationally-known grazing consultant, Flack builds on a solid foundation of key principles of grazing management to help farmers design and manage successful grazing systems. She first presents information from the perspective of pasture plants, and then from the livestock perspective – helping farmers understand both plant and animal needs before setting up a grazing system. Flack’s techniques for managing grazing animals are producing dramatic results ty empower farmers to create grazing systems which are truly effective.

Farmers and their farms will benefit greatly from Flack’s message that, in partnership with their animals, they can create profound change in pasture quality and productivity and the performance of the livestock.

Flack’s lifelong experience with grazing began when her family employed mob grazing techniques on the family farm to transform a brushy, overgrown series of fields into high-quality pasture. She has pursued graduate studies on pasture management at the University of Vermont, and she has successfully helped many farmers create positive change in their pastures, soils, livestock, finances, and farm-family quality of life.

“The Art and Science of Grazing” is an essential guide for ruminant farmers who want to create grazing systems that meet the needs of their livestock, pasture plants, soils, and the larger ecosystem. The book covers all the practical details that are critical for sustained success, including:

• Design considerations for setting up a new system or improving existing systems
• Acreage calculations
• Paddock layout
• Fence and drinking water access
• Lanes and other grazing infrastructure
• Livestock movement and flow management
• Soil fertility
• Seeding and reseeding of pastures

Flack includes descriptions of real grazing systems working well on dairy, beef, goat, and sheep farms in different regions of North America. The book covers pasture requirements specific to organic farming but will be of use to both organic and non-organic farms.

Paperback. 240 pgs.