Develop an effective weed control plan for pasture, range By
Noel Mues UNL Extension Educator An effective weed control plan
for pasture and range involves several management practices. The
grazing scheme takes into account the type of livestock as well
as the grass and forb species available. Grazing intensity
influences the relative abundance of undesirable forbs and
grasses. Weeds that are unpalatable when mature may provide
acceptable grazing for certain classes of livestock when weeds
are young. Grazing schedules are a good integrated pest
management practice for weed management. Cultural or mechanical
weed management includes mowing or clipping, hand digging,
prescribed burning, or cultivation. Other IPM tactics include
biological control, especially for noxious weeds. Herbicides are
an aid to control unwanted weeds. Mowing or clipping temporarily
removes weed top-growth but also removes top-growth from grass.
This system stops seed production but has different effects on
the weeds. Annual forbs can be