- Cows require an adjustment period for a change in their routine, and should be gradually introduced to restricted grazing over 3-5 days before being limited to say two four hour grazing sessions
- In early lactation cows need to be offered 2 x 4 hour grazing periods every 24 hours to achieve adequate pasture intakes
- In times when feed availability is reduced (e.g. dry summer and late lactation) cows may eat their allocated pasture in one continuous 8 hr grazing period or 2 x 4 hour grazing periods every 24 hours
- The impact on milk production is affected by the additional walking distance to and from the stand-off area when cows are restricted to two four hour grazing periods over 24 hours.
- The energy cost of walking is increased by the 2 x 4 hour grazing system. Locating the stand-off facility near the dairy will help reduce the energy cost of walking, especially for rolling and hill farms.
Standing Cows Off - Impact on Pasture Intake and Milk Production