Grazing of Stubble versus Retaining Stubble

Stubble can provide feed for grazing livestock, however their hooves can compact the soil. Trials comparing grazed plots versus ungrazed, retained stubble are being conducted. The photo below shows one of the trial sites.

The ungrazed plot with retained stubble maintained a higher moisture content which resulted in bigger, greener, healthier plants than the grazed plot early in the growing season. However, the advantage disappeared before seed set.