Stocking Rate

Stocking rate describes grazing intensity as the number of animals (or animal units) per unit of land area for a specific duration, commonly expressed as acres per animal unit month (AUM). One animal unit is typically defined as a 1,000-pound cow with or without a calf. Setting the correct stocking rate is critical for maintaining pasture health, preventing overgrazing, and ensuring adequate forage for livestock. Stocking rates must be adjusted based on forage production potential, which varies with rainfall, soil fertility, and grass species. Overstocking leads to soil erosion, weed invasion, and declining animal performance, while understocking wastes available forage.