Abstract
Animal trampling can affect soil productivity. Several selected soil physical properties and plant growth indicators thought to be affected by animal trampling were measured in three experiments ranging over 8 years. Crops studied included alfalfa ( Medicago sativa), Bermudagrass ( Cynodon dactylon), and soybeans ( Glycine max) following wheat ( Triticum aestivum) or rye ( Secale cereale). Stocking rates for the experiments ranged from 5 to 18 animals ha −1. Cone penetrometer measurements were consistently higher in grazed areas than in areas protected from grazing. Other physical parameters (infiltration rate, bulk density, water release curve) measurements were sometimes significantly influenced by trampling. Natural densification explained increased bulk densities within protected areas. Trampling altered surface soil structure; however, productivity (root biomass, forage growth) was not significantly reduced.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
