Short-duration grazing: An economic perspective
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Authors: T. M. Quigley
Date: 1987
Journal: Rangelands
Volume: 9
Number: 4
Pages: 173-175
Summary of Methods: This article is a summary of five economic studies (South Dakota, North Dakota, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico) that examined the economic effects of short-duration grazing where four questions [1) If SDG is adopted will a ranch’s economic position improve? 2) What is the optimal investment if SDG is adopted? 3) What is optimal stocking rate for maximum profit? 4) What are cash flow implications if a large capital outlay is involved in the investment?] of short-duration grazing were asked.
Article Summary / Main Points: SDG represents a management philosophy, and economics are difficult to establish across the board because of differences in ecosystems. However, economics assist managers with decisions about SDG: whether to adopt the practice, optimal stocking levels for profit and level of investment, and information on cash-flow alternatives. Ranchers must look carefully at risk management and social implications of SDG in determining whether to adopt the practice. Preliminary research suggested the change in lifestyle from more traditional grazing management to more intensive, even if SDG is proved biologically and ecologically sound for the physical resources involved, may deter ranchers from adopting SDG.
Vegetation Types: All Vegetation Types
MLRA Ecoregions: Not Applicable
Agrovoc Control Words: Rural economics Grazing Rangelands
Article Review Type: Peer Reviewed
Article Type: Scientific Synthesis
Keywords: short-duration grazing (sdg), grazing, economics research, optimal investment, optimal stocking level, beef production, cash-flow requirements, risk management, ecological conditions, biological conditions
Annotation: Though a short paper, and older, this summary of SDG studies from the beginning of research on the topic is a good basic starting point for considerations to be made in deciding on SDG as a management practice for economic purposes. The SDG studies examined were from a variety of ecosystems and used a variety of measures.
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