Grazing, stocking, and production efficiencies in grazing research

Abstract

The term harvest efficiency has been used with increasing frequency to describe results of intensive grazing management. A concept of harvest efficiency for grazed systems, i.e., a grazing efficiency concept compatible with the dynamics of herbage growth and disappearance is needed. This paper (1) describes variables and objectives needed in constructing a concept of grazing efficiency, (2) offers a formal definition of the term, (3) defines 2 other efficiencies related to grazing efficiency, and (4) discusses the interpretation and use of grazing efficiency and the other efficiencies in grazing research. More effective application of the efficiency concepts will require improved methods of measuring or modeling herbage growth and disappearance.