By 1812Blockhouse
The importance of effective land management has never been more critical. With storms becoming more frequent and severe, ensuring that our lands are well-managed is vital to prevent environmental degradation and to meet both current and future agricultural needs. The Richland County Pasture and Grazing School Series aims to address these concerns by providing education and resources for sustainable land management practices. It’s a combination that author Louis Bromfield would certainly approve.
A Collaborative Effort
The Richland County Pasture and Grazing School Series is a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations dedicated to conservation and sustainable agriculture. The key partners include:
- Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD)
- United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS)
- Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA)
- Ohio State University Extension
- Ohio Forage and Grasslands Council
These organizations have come together to offer a comprehensive series designed for both newcomers and experienced individuals in livestock and forage management. The series is structured to accommodate various interests and needs, providing participants the flexibility to attend all sessions or select those that are most relevant to them.
Workshop Series Overview
The Richland County Pasture and Grazing School Series is divided into three distinct workshops, each focusing on different aspects of pasture and grazing management.
1. Field Day for Plain Growers
- Date: June 14
- Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Shiloh Fire Station Pavilion, 11 N. Delaware St., Shiloh
- Details: This session is tailored for Plain Growers and will cover essential pasture management techniques.
- Cost: $10 per person (includes lunch and a grazing stick)
- Registration Deadline: June 11
2. Women for the Land Learning Circle
- Date: June 15
- Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Shady Lane Alpacas, 3073 Gass Rd., Mansfield
- Details: This workshop is designed specifically for women interested in land management, offering a supportive environment to learn and share experiences.
- Cost: $10 per person (includes lunch and a grazing stick)
- Registration Deadline: June 11
3. Pastures for Profit Grazing School
- Dates: July 23 and July 25
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview, Mansfield
- Details: This in-depth school covers advanced grazing techniques and pasture management strategies. It includes a practical Pasture Walk.
- Pasture Walk: July 27 from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM at Eisenhauer Farm, 7146 Guthrie Rd., Shiloh
- Cost: $30 per person (includes a light dinner on July 23 and 25, a grazing stick, and a USB with course materials)
- Registration Deadline: July 19
Registration Information
Interested participants can register for the workshops online at the Richland SWCD website or by calling 419-747-8688. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot and ensure adequate preparation for materials and meals.
Importance of Sustainable Practices
Effective pasture and grazing management is crucial not only for the immediate productivity of the land but also for its long-term sustainability. Over-grazed and nutrient-depleted lands can lead to severe soil erosion and reduced agricultural viability, echoing the catastrophic effects of the Dust Bowl era. By adopting sustainable practices, landowners can ensure the health and productivity of their lands for future generations.
Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay
