Effectiveness of heifers grazing on extensive grassland situated in the B. Papi Reserve

摘要

In 2007-2010 an experiment was carried out to investigate the effectiveness of beef production from heifers under extensive grazing conditions on grassland situated in the B. Papi Reserve. Experimental animals (112-118 heifers) were purchased in spring, grazed 24 h day~(-1) during grass-growing season lasting 182-202 days and were sold in November. The cycle was repeated four years in succession. The botanical composition of the sward and dry matter yield of pastures were estimated. Daily gains of heifers were measured by weighing and the effectiveness of beef production was evaluated. During the grazing season daily liveweight gains of animals ranged on average between years from 495 to 554 g depending on weather conditions and age of animals. Effectiveness of heifers grazing on this type of grassland can be improved by adjusting the stocking rate to the yield potential of the pasture. Extensive grazing of heifers appeared to be an economically justified and ecologically sustainable method of agricultural utilization of nature conservation areas with positive effects on grassland biodiversity.