.jpg)
TIMELY TOPICS Tom Stanley, Extension Agent
Tropical Storm Debby emphatically addressed our drought circumstances last week with over three inches of rain in Rockbridge County. At this writing, we are still assessing any damages that may have occurred but for most people concerned with land and water resources, last week’s rain was very welcome.
For most farmers in Rockbridge, improved soil moisture levels have bolstered hopes for late season hay harvest and the opportunity to capitalize on pasture growth into the late fall. But the drought that has plagued our region this summer really began last August with extremely dry conditions in September and October that denied livestock producers the opportunity to graze pastures into December as many often do and caused hay inventories to be completely consumed. It will take additional rain and moderate temperatures through the fall to restore our farming landscape. So, what next for the land steward?
First, given the current soil moisture levels, farmers can apply 40 to 70 lbs. of nitrogen to pasture and hay meadows with confidence it will be fully utilized and captured by the plants. There are different forms of nitrogen available and farmers need to balance price against the nitrogen fertilizer’s volatility and plant availability. Weather conditions in the days immediately after application can have significant impact on how much nitrogen volatilizes to the atmosphere and how much makes it to the plant roots.
Second, livestock producers need to examine their stocking rates and stock density. Moving animals, closing some gates, and erecting some temporary electric fencing can help capture and preserve the flush of fall growth we all hope is on its way. There are plenty of examples locally of farmers fostering fall growth and managing livestock to harvest their own feed well into the winter.
Third, seek opportunities to build resilience in our soils and farming systems. Livestock prices remain strong, supplemental feeds (other than hay) are relatively less expensive now than in recent years, and our Natural Bridge Soil and Water Conservation District has funds available that can enhance a farm’s stewardship infrastructure while protecting water resources. Watch fields around the county in the next three weeks. I think we will observe fields that have invested in fertility and grazing management recover from drought much more quickly than those fields that have been allowed to become acidic or never get a rest from grazing.
None of the circumstances or information in this week’s column is new. Rockbridge has experienced droughts and heat worse than what we have seen thus far in 2024. But this summer is another lesson in stewardship. Stewardship is not a year-to-year cash flow opportunity. Stewardship is a commitment to our resources in order to realize dividends 5, 10 and 50 years from today.
For more information on land resource management strategies for both the short and long run, contact the Rockbridge Extension office at (540) 463-4734 or send email to [email protected].
