Determining a stocking rate for livestock producers has just
become easier with the release of a new mobile smartphone app, "Stocking Rate Calculator for Grazing Livestock". The Wildlife and Fisheries
and Ecosystem Science and Management Extension units worked together to develop
this app, which is now available for iPhone and other Apple devices at the
iTunes store for only $0.99.
One of the most common problems livestock managers deal with
is determining the best number of livestock to have on the land without harming
their resources. Being overstocked
beyond what the land can handle may lead to overgrazing, resulting in issues
such as decreased forage production, erosion problems, and degraded wildlife
habitat and water quality. This app allows the user to
quickly and easily calculate a stocking rate for cattle, horse, sheep, and goat
operations.
This app is applicable anywhere because it is based on
actual forage production as measured by the rancher. Ranchers may need to do some work to obtain a
forage production on their property, but is easily done and a video within the
app demonstrates how to obtain this forage production value from their land. You can manipulate the
number and type of animals, grazing months, and remaining available forage.
Funding for the development of this app was provided through
a Renewable Resources Extension Act grant.