Steer Grazing on Mixed Coniferous Forest Ranges in Northeastern Oregon

Abstract

Steers grazing on pinegrass-browse forage in the mixed coniferous forest make good use of these areas in late spring and early summer. Weight gains average about one pound per day for animals wintered at intermediate levels (gaining about one and one quarter pound per day). Cows on the same area in the fall brought the total stocking rate to about three acres per AUM. The best animal performance appears to coincide with maximum vegetative development, but early grazing is essential to fully utilize pinegrass and legumes. Browse is of primary value in the fall for cows from which calves have been weaned.