Completed Competitive Grant

Site specific implementation of practices that alter the spatial/temporal distribution of grazing cattle to improve water quality of pasture streams in the Rathbun Lake watershed

Project ID: E2009-08

Abstract

This study examined how pasture size and composition can affect cattle distribution in and around streams, and influence the risk of pollutants stemming from cattle congregating in a small area.

Key Question: Do this physical characteristics of a pasture influence the effectiveness of practices intended to reduce the risk of non-point source pollution of pasture streams caused by congregation of cattle in and near streams?

Findings: The major factors affecting congregation of cattle in and near pasture streams were the size and shape of the pasture.

Lead investigator: Jim Russell, ISU Animal Science

Year of grant completion: 2012

This competitive grant project was part of the Leopold Center's Ecology Initiative.

Topics: Animal management and forage, Water quality, quantity and management

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The Leopold Center was established by the 1987 Iowa Groundwater Protection Act as a research and education center at Iowa State University to develop sustainable agricultural practices that are both profitable and conserve natural resources. Iowa State does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Vietnam Era Veteran. Any persons having inquiries concerning this may contact the Director of Affirmative Action, 3210 Beardshear Hall, (515) 294-7612.

This page was found at http://www.leopold.iastate.edu/grants/e2009-08 on 01/20/2013