Project Number: 1932-21630-002-01
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Feb 01, 2000
End Date: Jan 31, 2005

Objective:
The overall goal is to develop innovative concepts and practices to enhance efficiency, profitability and sustainability of grassland-based beef production systems in the Appalachian region. The objective at Virginia Tech will be to develop cow-calf and forage systems, backgrounding procedures, and heifer development practices for forage-finished beef enterprises.

Approach:
Different systems based on pastures will be evaluated for the cow-calf phase. Variables will include stocking density, grazing methods, species of forages, use of legumes, and use of conserved feeds. Variables for backgrounding, heifer development, and stocker cattle will include grazing management and optimizing nutrient levels. Grazing high quality pastures and drylot feeding will be compared for finishing cattle. Calves generated at Steeles Tavern, VA, will be set into finishing phases in cooperation with ARS and WVU.

Project Team

Clapham, William Turner, Kenneth Belesky, David J Fontenot - Scientist (304)256-2857

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001   FY 2000

Related National Programs

Food Animal Production (101)   Rangeland, Pasture, and Forages (205)