Tree Growth and Cattle Weight Gain in a Ponderosa Pine System

Authors

James R. Brandle, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Jeremy Tiller, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Casey B. Wilson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

January 2005

Comments

Published in 2005 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Copyright © 2004 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Integrated timber and livestock systems (silvopastoral) are common in several regions of the United States. Grazing of three timber stands in eastern Nebraska showed no signs of tree damage due to rubbing or soil compaction. Steer gains were lower under the silvopastoral system compared to a typical pasture system (1.05 lb/day versus 1.70 lb/day). Growth of timber in silvopastoral stands was reduced (35.0 cubic feet per year versus 37.8 cubic feet per year); however, total productivity of the silvopastoral system (timber plus livestock) was greater ($20.98/acre) than with traditional timber systems.