Complete Grazing System Increases Herd Size

Category: Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP)

Overview: Mr. Coombs started working with the USDA-NRCS in Morgantown, WV in 2003. His initial request was for assistance developing livestock water for his cow-calf herd. From one trough, as was initially requested, to a complete grazing system, Mr. Coombs has developed a whole-farm plan with technical assistance from the Morgantown NRCS staff. Mr. Coombs received an EQIP contract on 2003 which will provide cost sharing on infrastructure needed to change from season-long grazing to a rotational grazing system.

Accomplishments: Mr. Coombs has increased his herd from 70 brood cows to 80. He plans to bring the herd up to 100 mother-cows in 3 years.
Completed infrastructure improvements to date are:

• installed 3.5 miles of fence
• developed 4 springs
• installed 4 tire livestock watering troughs
• 2 concrete livestock watering troughs
• 4 freeze-proof livestock watering troughs
• 2,000 feet of pipeline
• roof run-off management.

These accomplishments were all completed in 12 months (since October 2003).

Benefits to Landowner: Mr. Coombs has increased his herd approximately 15% in the last year without additional land while working with the NRCS field staff. He has extended his grazing season by one month thus lowering his winter feed and feeding costs.

Benefits to Community: The Coombs Farm is a working, privately owned farm with virtually zero soil erosion. All woodland acres are protected from livestock use. All riparian areas are managed separately from other pastures. Mr. Coombs has made his farm available for educational opportunities. Already, the Coombs have hosted a pasture walk displaying three different brands of freeze-proof livestock waterers and a tri-district 4-H land judging contest.

Contact Information
 

Mr. Coombs changed from season-long grazing to a rotational grazing system.

 

His grazing season is extended by one month thus lowering his winter feed and feeding costs.

 

The Coombs have hosted a pasture walk displaying three different brands of freeze-proof livestock waterers.
 

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