Abstract
Abstract
Integration of browse species into the grazing system can increase the grazing/browsing opportunity; however, information is limited on their proper management for long-term use and persistence. The objective of the study was to determine whether it is safe to allow small ruminants to graze pastures consisting of dormant browse species. Katahdin ram lambs (9) and Kiko wethers (20) had access to the study plots containing four dormant browse species (mulberry, Morus alba; mimosa, Albizia julibrissin; white lead tree, Leucaena leucocephala; and bush indigo, Amorpha fruticosa) for two months. Type and extent of damage to the browse species were recorded once animals’ access to the study plots was stopped. The extent of damage was the highest in mulberry followed by mimosa. The results suggest that small ruminants can pose a significant damage to the dormant browse species; so, their access to such browse must be avoided.
Key Words: Small Ruminants, Dormant Browse Species, Grazing/Browsing, Grazing System
Recommended Citation
Poudel, Sanjok; Karki, Uma; McElhenney, Wendell; Karki, Yubaraj; Tillman, Asha; Karki, Lila; and Kumi, Anthony
(2017)
"Challenges of Stocking Small Ruminants in Grazing Plots with Dormant Browse Species,"
Professional Agricultural Workers Journal:
Vol. 5:
No.
1, 5.
Available at:
https://tuspubs.tuskegee.edu/pawj/vol5/iss1/5