THE MARYLAND HORSE COUNCIL
Farm Stewardship presented by
The Maryland Conservation Partnership by Maryland Department of Agriculture Offi ce of Resource Conservation
Although you may not be mowing your pastures this time of year, there
are still tons of things to be done to prepare your pastures and farm for the spring. Here are a few tips to get you started.
January
· Keep horses off pastures when ground is soft and wet to avoid mud, trampling of pasture grasses, and soil compaction. · Confi ne horses to loafi ng/sacrifi ce lots located near the barn during inclement weather. · Remove manure from loafi ng/sacrifi ce lot daily. · Check drinking water daily, making sure to break ice to allow horses access to water. · Calculate stocking rate (how many horses your land will support) for the grazing season, keeping in mind that 1.5 acres or more of pasture per horse is most ideal for maintaining a healthy, productive pasture. · Lime fi elds in accordance with soil test recommendations and when footing permits. · Assess body weight and condition score of horses on a monthly ba- sis throughout the winter in order to make changes to feed program if weight loss occurs.
· Reassess your hay needs for the remainder of the winter and order more if needed. Always keep a 2-3 week hay supply on hand in case heavy snows prevent hay delivery.
February
· Continue to feed horses hay in loafi ng/sacrifi ce lot if pastures are soft and wet. · Broadcast ladino-type white clover in bare spots in pasture (~1 lb/acre) in order to maintain ~25% clover content in the grazing season. · Check drinking water daily, making sure to break ice to allow horses access to water. · Update Nutrient Management Plan if needed (required by law for farms with 8,000 pounds or more of live animal weight, and/or gross- ing at least $2,500 annually), including preparing and sending Annual Implementation Report (AIR). · Check fence and fencing supplies. Post hole diggers can be reserved from your local soil conservation district or equipment dealer if new fencing is required. · Register for upcoming pasture-related educational event hosted by University of Maryland Extension and local soil conservation districts.
Learn more at
MDA.MARYLAND.GOV/HOW
38 | JANUARY 2025 | THE EQUIERY YOUR MARYLAND HORSE COUNCIL PUBLICATION
800-244-9580 |
www.equiery.com
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