Tall Fescue and Orchardgrass Productivity and Persistence Under Grazing Systems in Tennessee

The primary forage species used by cow-calf producers in grazing systems in Tennessee is tall fescue [Schedonorus arundinaceus (Shreb.) Dumort.]. Tall fescue is considered an excellent cool-season perennial forage crop due to its high quality, production, and extended growing season. However, most of these tall fescue grazing systems are composed of tall fescue cv. Kentucky 31, which is known for containing a fungus endophyte (Neotyphodium coenophialum) that can be toxic to animals. Alternatively, orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) is a vastly used and important perennial cool-season forage in the United States. The goal of this project was to compare different cool-season forage species under grazing pressure while increasing the productivity and persistence of the stand. The objective is to improve the yield and forage quality of pastures, extend the grazing season, reduce hay feeding, reduce the need for N (nitrogen) fertilization, and increase profitability in the system. Following three grazing periods in both 2022 and 2023 this experiment showed statistical difference in the total forage production for both year and month, but did not show statistical difference for total forage production within a species. Furthermore, when it comes to botanical composition a difference was found for both year and month, but not within treatments. Persistence among treatment and year was not found to be significant. Results from this study highlight the ability of Persist Orchardgrass (OP1) and Persist Orchardgrass II (OP2) to provide adequate gain to grazing animals but did not show positive results in drought tolerance or persistence indicators needed for long-term pasture success.