Improve the farm fodder autonomy in ruminants’ production

This practice abstract presents strategies to improve fodder autonomy in ruminant production systems through enhanced grassland management and greater reliance on high-quality forage.

Key practices include rotational grazing, timely mowing and the establishment of multi-species grasslands containing legumes. These measures improve forage quality, increase pasture productivity and reduce dependence on purchased feed and synthetic nitrogen fertilisers.

Improved forage self-sufficiency helps farms adapt to climate-related risks such as drought and input price volatility, while contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions, better soil functioning and reduced nitrate leaching.