Avoid Damage to Winter Pastures

Winter weather can be hard on pastures, but land owners can avoid damage by following a few management procedures.

Avoid mowing fields too closely in late fall so the ground stays somewhat protected. While relatively flat, well-grown pastures can stand some winter grazing, try not to turn horses out on steep slopes and bare areas. Hooves can easily loosen topsoil, allowing it to be washed away by winter rains. It seems inevitable that some muddy spots will develop, especially around gates and in feeding areas, but by frequently rotating fields and varying the spots where hay is fed, mud can be minimized.

Keep an eye on pasture condition and move horses to another field before the ground starts to look bare.