Integration of Livestock Grazing and Row Crop Systems in Southern Brazil. (C06-sulc468229-oral)
Authors:
R.M. Sulc* - Ohio State Univ.
A. Moraes - Univ. Federal do Parana S.J. Alves - IAPAR
A. Pelissari - Univ. Federal do Parana
P.C.F. Carvalho - Univ. Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
Abstract:
Grain and livestock farmers in southern Brazil are seeking alternative production systems to improve efficiency and profitability. University and state research institutions are leading development of
sustainable no-tillage systems that integrate livestock grazing with cash grain production. These systems diversify farm income and increase efficiency on the same land base. The integration occurs primarily in two forms: rotation of annual grain crops with perennial pastures, and livestock grazing of winter cover crops or annual pastures in rotation with annual grain crops. A systems approach is being employed to study soil-plant-animal interactions, providing a basis for best management practices. Studies include evaluations of grazing intensity and animal performance on winter annual pastures, nutrient cycling, and animal grazing impact on soil physical and chemical properties and subsequent grain crop production.
Research and farmer adoption are demonstrating these no-till integrated systems improve profitability and environmental sustainability, and will likely increase competitive ability of southern Brazilian farmers.
Speaker Information: R. Mark Sulc, Ohio State Univ., Dept. Hort. & Crop Science, 2021 Coffey, Columbus, OH 43210-1086; Phone: 614-292-2001; E-mail: [email protected]
Session Information: Tuesday, November 4, 2003, 12:55 PM-2:15 PM Presentation Start: 1:45 PM