Controlled or rotational grazing of pasture grasses requires some areas to periodically remain ungrazed for regrowth.

Generally in the Northeast, 2 to 3 acres of good pasture per horse is needed for summer feeding purposes.

A good management tool for horse facilities on limited acreage is to provide at least one all-weather paddock (an area of divided pasture) for foul weather turnout.

Known as a sacrifice lot, this area takes the worst wear to preserve grass in the remaining paddocks.

This ungrassed exercise lot should be located away from water bodies and should have green vegetation surrounding it to act as a buffer to catch any runoff water, nutrients and sediment.

A rotational grazing system is the best way to maximize forage production and consumption on limited pasture acreage. A group of compatible horses can graze a paddock for a few days, then be moved (rotated) to a fresh paddock.

Pasture management is essential to keep desired species productive. Avoid over- and undergrazing.

Horses typically graze in spots. Unless they are moved frequently, they can damage desired species in some areas by overgrazing. Rotational grazing can also break the life cycle of some parasites.

Remember to:

• Clip pastures regularly during the growing season. Clipping to a height of 3 inches after horses have grazed helps control weeds and prevents grasses from heading.

• Drag pastures with a chain link harrow at least once a year. This helps spread manure, reducing parasites, and it smooths areas dug up by hooves on wet soil.

• Apply fertilizer as needed. Fertilizer application should be based on soil tests done every 2 to 3 years. Testing kits can be purchased at the Butler County Extension Office, Building No. 10, Sunnyview complex; or at the Farm Service Agency office at the Butler Farm Show grounds.

Ron Fodor is manager of the Butler County Conservation District.