Alternative field-based approaches to animal wintering that deliver some improved environmental and animal welfare outcomes: A stock-take of current knowledge

This report presents a synthesis of current knowledge about possible alternative approaches to intensive winter forage crop grazing, focussing on field-based systems that are feasible and affordable. This information has been requested by Otago Regional Council as a precursor to possible future initiatives that support farming communities to identify wintering approaches that have lower potential impacts on soil and water quality. The synthesis begins with a review of findings from recently completed projects that have evaluated some pasture-based and lower-intensity mixed forage crop grazing approaches to animal wintering. Common themes and practical experiences from these studies are identified and used to develop a set of design principles that can guide planning and management considerations for future wintering activities.

Report Number RE450/2024/023