Rotational Grazing - Elk
Willow Creek Sub-District
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Characteristics
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Benefits
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To improve grazing management this producer installed a rotational grazing system in two phases. The first phase, completed in 2023 included 2200 meters of fence to create 2 paddocks measuring 12.3 and 8.3 acres in size. An alleyway was also constructed to provide access to these paddocks and accommodate future pasture expansion. In 2025, the second phase added 1120 meters of fencing to create two additional paddocks, measuring 9.4 and 9.9 acres in size.
The grazing system was designed to support 20 elk, which are rotated through the four paddocks approximately every 15 days, depending on growth and pasture conditions. As this system is to graze elk, more intensive fencing materials were used. The project started with 2-3/8” metal posts, and 3.5” metal posts for the corners, which was paired with an 8-foot high-tensile woven wire fence.
The practice of rotational grazing provides many benefits for both the livestock and the land. Benefits include uniform grazing pressure on all plant species, meaning weeds do not have the opportunity to take over, leading to more plant biodiversity, even manure distribution, and ample periods of rest to allow the pasture plants to put down roots, allowing for improved soil structure, and water infiltration.
The grazing system was designed to support 20 elk, which are rotated through the four paddocks approximately every 15 days, depending on growth and pasture conditions. As this system is to graze elk, more intensive fencing materials were used. The project started with 2-3/8” metal posts, and 3.5” metal posts for the corners, which was paired with an 8-foot high-tensile woven wire fence.
The practice of rotational grazing provides many benefits for both the livestock and the land. Benefits include uniform grazing pressure on all plant species, meaning weeds do not have the opportunity to take over, leading to more plant biodiversity, even manure distribution, and ample periods of rest to allow the pasture plants to put down roots, allowing for improved soil structure, and water infiltration.
