Effects of cattle grazing cropresidues on soil bulk density (2000)

R.K Taylor,John W Slocombe

doi:10.4148/2378-5977.1727

Abstract

Effects of cattle grazing on soil bulk density were measured at two sites in central Kansas. Samples were taken at depths of 0 to 3 in. and 3 to 6 in. from grazed and ungrazed areas at five locations in each field. No statistical difference (P>0.01) between bulk densities of the two areas occurred at the 3 to 6 in. depth for either site. However, soil in the grazed areas had significantly higher (P<0.01) bulk density than that in the ungrazed areas at the 0 to 3 in. depth at both sites.

Highlights

IntroductionThe impact of cattle on soil properties can affect subsequent crops planted in fields that have been grazed
Effects of cattle grazing on soil bulk density were measured at two sites in central Kansas
Samples were taken at depths of 0 to 3 in. and 3 to 6 in. from grazed and ungrazed areas at five locations in each field

Summary

Introduction

The impact of cattle on soil properties can affect subsequent crops planted in fields that have been grazed. In a Texas study, trampling during rotational grazing reduced water infiltration rate and increased sediment production, resulting in a silty clay surface devoid of vegetation. In a 3-year study, cattle grazing wheat pastures in late fall and winter resulted in soil. The Rice County field consisted primarily of Crete silt loam and Smolan silty clay loam, was planted to grain sorghum in the spring of 1998, and was harvested in late October. The stocker cattle had access to approximately 75 acres of winter wheat pasture as well as the grain sorghum stalks. The Smith County field consisted of Harney silt loam, was planted to grain sorghum in the spring of 1998, and was harvested in early November.

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