Agricultural Economics, Department of
Center for Agricultural Profitability
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Overgrazing: What It Costs and How to Prevent It
Date of this Version
8-11-2026
Document Type
Article
Citation
Sand, S. “Overgrazing: What It Costs and How to Prevent It.” CAP Series 26-0802, Center for Agricultural Profitability, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Aug. 11, 2026. DOI: 10.32873/unl.dc.cap088.
Abstract
There is a saying that you “take half and leave half” about grazing. However, with the weather events we’ve been seeing this past year, some producers are concerned about overgrazing.
Overgrazing doesn't just reduce grass production; it can reduce profits for years. While it may seem like you're getting every last bite from a pasture, overgrazing often leads to higher feed costs, lower carrying capacity, and more expensive pasture recovery over time.
Lower forage production means fewer grazing days. Producers may have to purchase hay or supplemental feed earlier than planned, and reduced carrying capacity can lower stocking rates in future years. It can also cause weeds or pest invasion, and soil erosion often increases. That can lead to additional management costs, and it can take three to five years to regain original carrying capacity.