Submitted by Thurston County
A new regional grazing school will host its first course April 21 through April 23, 2023, at the Skookumchuch Grange in Tenino, Washington. The three-day, on-site course is focused on rotational grazing systems, pasture management, and grazing for biodiverse grassland habitat. Tuition of $300 includes all meals and instructional materials
The program was developed by faculty at Washington State University Extension, resource conservationists at the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Ecostudies Institute. Personnel at each institution instruct the class, as well as highly experienced livestock producers. The training is modeled on the popular Lost Rivers Grazing Academy run by University of Idaho Extension.
This intensive is for beef, sheep, or goat producers, dairy operators, and horse owners. Technical service providers supporting livestock producers including NRCS, Conservation District, or the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service employees.
Attendees will learn how to improve pasture management skills while developing and improving grazing management skills. These skills will help to reduce hay production and save on feeding costs while extending the grazing season by reducing harvested forages. Half of instructional time will be spent in the field in hands-on “pasture learning”. Attendees will walk away with the knowledge and skills to improve overall pasture productivity and raise healthier livestock as well as a supportive community.
Scholarships are available to all veterans and others upon inquiry. The course is very much an “intensive”, so attendees should be prepared to dedicate all day from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Those who successfully complete the course will receive grazing school certificates. Continuing education credits are available upon inquiry.
For more information and how to register please visit the WSU Extension website, or contact Sierra Smith at sierra.smith1@wsu.edu.
