Abstract

VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, H. C. et al. Reproduction performance of beef cattle before and after implementing a sustainable grazing system in a semi-arid grassland of southern Africa. S Afr. Jnl. Agric. Ext. [online]. 2020, vol.48, n.1, pp.112-121. ISSN 2413-3221.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2413-3221/2020/v48n1a530.

The semi-arid grasslands of South Africa are a major resource for beef farming. However, the reproduction performance of beef cattle is not optimal, and it is stressed differently by the different agriculture sectors due to various management systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of sustainable rangeland management on the reproduction of beef cattle and rangeland health. Data on calving rates, weaning weight (205 days), and rangeland condition over a period of five years was sampled, beginning with no rangeland management in year one, comparing the results with the next four years after implementing sustainable rangeland management, utilising the same herd of cattle. Results showed a significant increase in calving rates from the first year of rangeland management (+ 27%), with a 50% increase in year four. Weaning weight also increased significantly (P < 0.05) within the first year (+ 60 kg), with 72.8kg in year four. Rangeland conditions also started to improve in 31 of the 45 camps. The financial implication with respect to weaner calf income was also calculated with striking differences within the first year where it was ± two to three times higher and four times higher in year four comparing with the income with no rangeland management. Agricultural extension will enhance the objectives of securing sustainable agricultural development as indicated in this study for livestock production through the implementation of efficient rangeland management.

Keywords : Beef production; Calving rate; Economic implications; Rangeland management.

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